A vibrant bowl of cubed watermelon, thinly sliced red onion, and golden toasted sesame seeds coated in a glossy, sweet and spicy dressing.
WRITTEN BY
SERVES:
2
Prep Time:
10 MINUTES
Cook Time:
10 MINUTES

Here’s a juicy way to shake up your summer salads! This Sweet & Spicy Watermelon recipe is a fast, flavour-packed dish that’s great for BBQs, picnics, or when you’re staring down a watermelon that needs using up. The combo of soy sauce, chilli oil, and sesame gives it a bold umami kick - think of it as watermelon with a twist! Made with simple ingredients and ready in minutes, this is a must-try way to rescue your fruit from languishing in the fridge.

INGREDIENTS:
  • ½ large watermelon or 1 small watermelon
  • 3 Tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 Tbsp chilli oil (available in most supermarkets)
  • 2 Tbsp sesame oil
  • 4 Tbsp sugar
  • 2 Tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
  • Salt, to taste
INSTRUCTIONS:
  1. Remove the skin from the watermelon and cut it into cubes. Place in a large bowl.
  2. Add the sliced red onion and a pinch of salt. Toss to combine.
  3. Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan until golden brown. This happens quickly, so keep an eye on them.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix the soy sauce, chilli oil, sesame oil, sugar, and rice vinegar until the sugar dissolves. Stir in the toasted sesame seeds.
  5. Pour the dressing over the watermelon and onion, then gently toss to coat.
  6. Let it marinate for 10 minutes before serving.
wonkybox

Sweet & Spicy Watermelon

Our take on the viral cucumber salad—juicy watermelon meets soy, chilli, and sesame for a bold, Asian-inspired twist.
WRITTEN BY
ABOUT
ABOUT

tell us what you think

tempting recommendations

Chunky red tomatoes and sliced onions in a light soy and sesame dressing, topped with fresh coriander and toasted sesame seeds.
Asian Tomato Salad

A savoury tomato salad with soy, sesame, and chilli oil- ideal as a side, BBQ topper, or noodle toss-in.

A swirl of whipped feta topped with marinated strawberries, sliced cucumber, and mint leaves, served with crusty bread on a ceramic plate.
Whipped Feta with Strawberries

Whipped feta with marinated strawberries, cucumber, and mint - a salty-sweet snack or low-effort summer starter.

Tagliatelle tossed with golden pork and fennel sausage pieces, red onion, and creamy mustard sauce, topped with parsley and parmesan.
Pork & Fennel Sausage Pasta

A quick, creamy pork and fennel sausage pasta made with pantry staples. A weeknight comfort dinner with a little flair.

Seared slices of beef and bright green broccoli tossed with rice noodles, herbs, and peanuts, dressed in a chilli and lime dressing.
Beef & Broccoli, Chilli & Lime Salad

A light, punchy beef and broccoli salad with rice noodles, herbs, and a zingy chilli-lime dressing for a quick weeknight winner.