Watermelon lovers: Try these savory twists on your favorite fruit!
What's the story
Watermelon is a surprisingly versatile fruit that can be used in a wide range of dishes, not just sweet ones but also savory.
This article presents five creative ways to use watermelon in your vegan cooking, demonstrating its versatility beyond the usual fruit salad.
From cool soups to satisfying salads, watermelon can bring a touch of creativity to your meals.
Pizza
Watermelon pizza: A fruity feast
Using watermelon as a pizza base creates a surprisingly refreshing and sweet twist on the classic savory pizza.
Simply slice a large watermelon into round slabs and then pile on vegan cheeses, fresh basil, a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze, and your favorite sliced fruits (think strawberries, kiwis, etc.).
The juicy watermelon pairs perfectly with the creamy cheeses and tangy balsamic, making this a truly mouthwatering summer treat.
Grilling
Grilled watermelon steaks
Grilling thick slices of watermelon imparts a delicious smoky-savory flavor to the sweet fruit.
Grill each side for two to three minutes until char marks appear.
Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil or a reduced balsamic vinegar glaze for added flavor.
These watermelon "steaks" pair well as a vegetarian main or with salads.
Soup
Chilled watermelon soup
This chilled watermelon soup is the ultimate refreshment for those scorching summer days.
Simply blend cubed watermelon, fresh mint leaves, lime juice, and ginger until smooth.
Chill the mixture for at least one hour before serving.
Garnish with additional mint leaves or cucumber slices for an extra burst of freshness.
Not only is this soup incredibly refreshing, but it also provides a ton of nutritional benefits.
Salad
Watermelon salad with vegan feta cheese
Pairing cubed watermelon with vegan feta cheese makes for a deliciously refreshing salad.
Simply add thinly sliced red onions, diced cucumbers, fresh mint leaves or basil, and toss everything in a dressing of extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice.
The combination of sweet watermelon and tangy vegan feta is perfect for a side dish or a light meal.
Jerky
Dehydrated watermelon jerky
If you are craving a unique snack, try making watermelon jerky by dehydrating thin slices of the fruit.
Simply cut thin slices, season to taste (sweet spices like cinnamon are great), and dehydrate at 135 degrees Fahrenheit for 18-24 hours until chewy.
You'll be left with a concentrated burst of sweet, watermelon flavor that's both portable and shelf-stable. It's the perfect snack for hiking or just for fun!