Watermelon is a refreshing and sweet summer fruit that is enjoyed by many. Its high water content makes it perfect for staying hydrated on hot days. While watermelon is delicious on its own, it can also be combined with other fruits to make a delicious and nutritious fruit salad. But what fruits actually pair well with watermelon?
Fruits That Pair Well With Watermelon
There are many fruits that complement the flavor of watermelon beautifully. Here are some of the top fruits that mix well with watermelon:
- Strawberries – The sweetness of strawberries balances the milder flavor of watermelon perfectly. The red and pink colors also look great together.
- Blueberries – The tangy flavor of blueberries contrasts nicely with sweet watermelon. Blueberries add antioxidants and vivid color.
- Raspberries – Like blueberries, raspberries add great flavor contrast and color to watermelon slices.
- Blackberries – Watermelon and blackberries are a classic summer pairing. The juices mingle wonderfully.
- Pineapple – Pineapple’s tropical flavor combines splendidly with juicy watermelon for a fruity explosion. Pineapple also adds beneficial enzymes.
- Mango – Mango’s tropical, peach-like flavor is another fantastic match for watermelon. Together they taste like a tropical vacation.
- Honeydew Melon – Mixing watermelon with this close melon relative creates a super sweet, hydrating medley.
- Cantaloupe – Both watermelon and cantaloupe are summer classics. Combining them gives you the best of both worlds.
- Grapes – Seedless grapes, either red or green, add a refreshing pop of juicy sweetness to watermelon slices.
- Kiwi – Kiwi’s tart, tropical taste provides balance against watermelon’s sugary flavor.
How to Make a Watermelon Fruit Salad
Making a delicious watermelon fruit salad is easy. Here is a simple recipe:
Ingredients
- 3 cups watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 cup raspberries
- 1 cup blackberries
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 mango, cubed
- 1⁄2 cup honeydew melon balls
- 1⁄2 cup cantaloupe chunks
- 1⁄2 cup green grapes
- 1⁄2 cup red grapes
- 2 kiwis, sliced
- 1⁄4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions
- Cut the watermelon, mango, honeydew, and cantaloupe into bite-sized pieces. Slice the strawberries, grapes, and kiwi.
- Place all the cut fruit into a large mixing bowl. Add the honey and lime juice.
- Gently toss the fruit until evenly coated in the honey-lime mixture.
- Cover and refrigerate the fruit salad for 1-2 hours before serving to allow flavors to mingle.
- Serve chilled. Garnish with mint leaves if desired.
This easy watermelon fruit salad makes the perfect light and healthy summertime snack or dessert. The combination of juicy, sweet watermelon with the acids and flavors of berries, tropical fruit, and citrus is incredibly tasty and refreshing. It’s also full of valuable vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Nutrition Benefits of Watermelon Fruit Salad
There are many excellent nutrients found in watermelon and the fruits used in this salad:
Watermelon
- Vitamin C – Boosts immunity and acts as an antioxidant.
- Vitamin A – Important for eye and skin health.
- Potassium – Helps regulate fluid balance and heart function.
- Lyocpene – A potent antioxidant that may help protect against cancer.
Berries
- Anthocyanins – These antioxidants give berries their red/blue color and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Vitamin C – Abundant in strawberries, raspberries and blackberries.
- Manganese – In blueberries and blackberries, supports bone health and metabolism.
- Fiber – Berries provide gut-healthy fiber to aid digestion.
Tropical Fruits
- Vitamin C – Pineapple and mango are high in immune-boosting vitamin C.
- Enzymes – Pineapple contains bromelain which aids digestion.
- Beta-carotene – Mangos are a great source, which converts to vitamin A.
- Electrolytes – The potassium in tropical fruits can replenish electrolytes lost during exercise.
Grapes
- Antioxidants – Grapes, especially red, contain the antioxidants resveratrol and quercetin.
- Vitamin K – Important for blood clotting and bone strength.
- Vitamin C – A good source to help meet daily needs.
Tips for the Best Watermelon Fruit Salad
Making delicious watermelon fruit salad is easy, but here are some helpful tips:
- Use ripe, sweet watermelon – Choose a fully ripe melon with bright color and no white spots.
- Cut the fruit into small, uniform pieces – Bite-sized cubes or balls work best.
- Toss gently – Overmixing can turn the berries to mush.
- Add a squeeze of citrus – Lime, lemon, or orange juice adds brightness.
- Sweeten with honey – Use just a drizzle to enhance the flavors.
- Chill thoroughly – At least 1-2 hours of chilling allows the flavors to meld.
- Add fresh herbs – Mint, basil, or thyme add a fresh touch.
- Serve cold – Frosty watermelon salad on a hot day is sublime!
Questions and Answers About Watermelon Fruit Salad
How long will watermelon fruit salad keep in the fridge?
Properly stored, watermelon fruit salad will keep for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. The cut fruit will start to lose its freshness after that. Keep the salad stored in an airtight container.
Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?
It’s best to use fresh fruit for watermelon salads whenever possible. But if you need to substitute frozen berries or other fruit, just thaw first and drain off excess liquid before adding to the salad.
Is there a way to prevent the cut fruit from turning brown?
Tossing the fruit with a little lemon or lime juice will help prevent oxidation that causes browning. You can also drizzle a little honey over the salad which will keep cut surfaces moist.
What liquid makes the best dressing for watermelon salad?
For watermelon fruit salad, sweet and tangy liquids work best. Honey, lime juice, lemon juice, and orange juice all complement the flavors. You just need a spoonful drizzled over the salad.
What herbs go well with watermelon salad?
Fresh mint and basil are perfect herbs to use in watermelon salad. Thinly slice several mint leaves or basil leaves and gently mix into the finished salad for a burst of flavor.
Conclusion
Refreshing watermelon salad made with a mixture of berries, tropical fruits, grapes, and citrus makes for the ultimate summer treat. The sweet juice of the watermelon combined with the bright pops of flavor from the other fruits creates a healthy and hydrating mix perfect for hot days. With so many nutrients and antioxidants, it’s a delicious way to get your fruit servings. For best results, use ripe, fresh watermelon and toss gently with a bit of honey and citrus juice. Garnish with fresh herbs like mint or basil. Watermelon fruit salad should keep for 3-4 days in the fridge, so you can enjoy it again and again.