Nothing says refreshing like watermelon! And a watermelon salad is the perfect way to cool down during the Summer heat.

We like our watermelon salad with some Tajin to add some delicious contrasting flavors, plus some cotija cheese and mint for some extra depth.

For those that don't know, tajin is a salty Mexican seasoning blend made with chili powder, dehydrated lime juice, and salt. It's delicious to use on so many dishes, but especially when paired with the juiciness of fresh watermelon! From a watermelon margarita to watermelon skewers, it's truly the best seasoning when you want a little Mexican flavoring that is both spicy and zesty.

And you can't forget the dressing! This vinaigrette is made with Persian Lime Balsamic Vinegar and Ascolano Extra Virgin Olive Oil to create the most delicious citrus addition to this sweet and spicy salad.

We love a salad filled with fresh fruit, and that wonderful watermelon taste is tough to beat on a hot day! So time to make this delicious summer treat to get you through the dog days of summer.

Watermelon with Tajin and Cotija Cheese with Lime Balsamic Dressing

Ingredients:

For the salad:

• 1 small seedless watermelon, chilled and cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1 cup crumbled Cotija cheese (or feta cheese)
• 1 tablespoon Tajin seasoning (sold at local grocery stores)
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped

For the lime balsamic dressing:

• 3 tablespoons Ascolano Extra Virgin Olive Oil (or Super Greek Extra Virgin Olive Oil)
• 2 tablespoons Persian Lime Balsamic Vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon Tajin seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the watermelon: Start by cutting the watermelon in half and scooping out the seeds (if any). Then, cut the watermelon into manageable slices and remove the rind. Finally, chop the watermelon into bite-sized cubes. Place the cubes in a large mixing bowl and chill them in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the salad.

2. Make the lime balsamic dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lime juice, and honey (if using). Add 1/2 teaspoon of Tajin seasoning, or adjust the amount according to your taste preference. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the dressing aside.

3. Assemble the salad: Take the chilled watermelon cubes from the refrigerator and gently toss them with the chopped fresh mint leaves. Sprinkle the crumbled Cotija cheese on top of the watermelon and mint mixture.

4. Add Tajin seasoning: Generously sprinkle Tajin seasoning over the watermelon and Cotija cheese. The combination of the sweet watermelon with the savory, tangy, and slightly spicy Tajin will create a delightful flavor profile.

5. Drizzle the lime balsamic dressing: Just before serving, give the lime balsamic dressing a final stir and drizzle it over the watermelon salad. Start with a small amount and add more dressing if needed, ensuring not to overwhelm the flavors of the watermelon and Tajin.

6. Toss gently: Carefully toss the salad to ensure the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly. Be gentle to avoid crushing the watermelon cubes.

7. Serve: Transfer the watermelon salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish with a few additional fresh mint leaves and a sprinkle of Tajin seasoning on top, if desired. Or store in an airtight container for later.

Time to Enjoy!

This tajin watermelon salad is the answer to a scorching day. It can be served for lunch, an easy appetizer, or as a delicious side at your 4th of July party - there are truly so many good opportunities to eat your new favorite salad.

The citrus flavor and balance of the dressing can't be created without the perfect blend of Persian Lime Balsamic and Ascolano EVOO! But besides this dressing, you can use these products in so many other ways. Try them in sweeter foods, like cakes with balsamic frosting, or in tex-mex foods like guacamole. There are so many ways to get creative in the kitchen.

Plus don't forget to download your own copy of the salad recipe by clicking below!

Download Recipe