Watermelon salad? Yes, please! This dish isn’t just for summer picnics; it’s a superstar all year long. Remember those hot afternoons sitting outside, slurping on juicy watermelon? We’ve taken that nostalgia and freshened it up with a twist.
Adding some crunchy sides will amp up the fun. It’s like giving the salad a support crew! Think outside the box—crunchy, savory, even spicy. We’re talking about flavors that play well together.
So, let’s get into what to serve with this refreshing salad. Get ready for a list that will make your next meal a piece of cake—or, well, a slice of watermelon!
Top 13 Side Dishes for Watermelon Salad
Here are 13 delicious options to serve with your watermelon salad:
1 – Grilled Halloumi Cheese
Grilled halloumi cheese is our secret weapon for adding some serious fun to any meal. It’s salty, squeaky, and gives a lovely char when grilled.
We love slicing it thick to maximize that grill action. Serve it warm, and it becomes creamy goodness in your mouth.
Pair it with watermelon salad for a refreshing contrast. The combination hits all the right notes with sweetness and saltiness.
2 – Mint Yogurt Dip
We love mint yogurt dip! It’s creamy and cool, making it the perfect refreshment alongside our watermelon salad.
The mint adds a burst of freshness that brightens every bite. The yogurt gives it a smooth texture that just glides over our taste buds.
We throw in a hint of garlic for flavor, which gives it a nice kick. Pair it with veggies or pita for that extra crunch.
3 – Prosciutto Wrapped Melon
Prosciutto wrapped melon is a classic combo we can’t get enough of.
The sweet and juicy melon pairs perfectly with the salty, savory prosciutto. It’s like a flavor explosion in every bite.
We recommend cantaloupe or honeydew for that luscious sweetness.
The trick? Use thin slices of prosciutto to let the melon shine through. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can take it to the next level.
Make sure to serve these cold for refreshment.
4 – Lemon Herb Couscous
Couscous is like that reliable friend who brings fun to every gathering. It’s light, fluffy, and soaks up flavors like a champ.
We love using lemon and fresh herbs to give it a zesty kick. Pair it with watermelon salad for a tangy contrast that’s refreshing.
Add olive oil for richness and toasted pine nuts for crunch. A sprinkle of feta cheese can bring a creamy element to the mix.
5 – Chilled Cucumber Soup
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Cucumber soup is a refreshing treat, especially on hot days. It’s cool and crisp, making every spoonful feel like a mini-vacation.
We blend fresh cucumbers with yogurt for creaminess and a touch of garlic for a flavor kick.
Serve it chilled to really bring out the garden-fresh vibes. Toss in mint or dill for some herby punch. This soup is versatile, enjoyable as a starter or a light dish.
6 – Pulled Pork
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Pulled pork is comfort food that always impresses. It’s tender, smoky, and bursting with flavor.
We love using a dry rub before slow cooking to create that amazing crust. Pair it with a tangy BBQ sauce for a perfect flavor combo.
It works great in sandwiches or on its own. Don’t skip the pickles; they add crunch and contrast.
Serve it up at gatherings for a crowd-pleaser. You can’t go wrong!
7 – Seared Scallops
Seared scallops are like that luxe treat we crave for special occasions or just because. They’re tender, yet slightly crispy on the outside—pure magic on a plate.
The flavour is a beautiful mix of sweet and briny, reminiscent of the ocean. We love embracing that buttery richness that simply melts in our mouths. A quick sear is all they need, and a squeeze of lemon really brightens things up.
Pair these with lighter sides to let them shine. You won’t regret treating yourself!
8 – Sausage and Peppers
Grilled sausages bring a smoky, savory kick. Peppers add a sweet crunch that balances everything out.
We love using different types of sausages for varied flavors—Italian adds herbs; bratwursts bring a little heat.
It’s quick to make—just grill or sauté together and serve! Pair with crusty bread or toss in pasta for a tasty touch. Enjoy them any time; they never disappoint.
9 – Pistachio Crusted Chicken Tenders
Pistachio crusted chicken tenders are all about that crispy goodness. The nutty crunch from pistachios really amps up the flavor.
These tenders combine tender chicken with a light, crunchy exterior.
We love a hint of garlic in the breading for a bit of zing.
Serve these with a zesty dipping sauce, and you’ve got an epic dish.
Perfect for snacking or as a main attraction at dinner. Enjoy with a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness.
10 – Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
Quinoa stuffed peppers bring a nice punch to any meal. They’re colourful, filling, and packed with flavor.
We love mixing quinoa with black beans for protein, adding diced tomatoes for a juicy bite. Spices like cumin and paprika bring warmth.
Baking them lets the peppers soften up while the quinoa absorbs all those flavours. Top with cheese for some melty goodness. These stuffed beauties work great as a main or side dish.
11 – Buttery Corn on the Cob
Buttery corn on the cob is a classic side that we can’t resist. It’s sweet, tender, and slathered in rich butter.
Seasoned simply with salt, it brings out that summer vibe. We grill or boil ours for the best texture.
Pair with lime or chili powder for an extra zing. Enjoying it fresh off the grill is a must. It’s a treat that complements almost any meal,! Perfect for picnics or BBQs.
12 – Feta and Olive Tapenade
Feta and olive tapenade is a dip that brings joy. It’s salty, tangy, and bursting with Mediterranean vibes. We mix crumbled feta with briny olives for a harmonious blend.
Taste the freshness from fresh herbs like parsley. Spreading this on crackers or bread? Totally a win.
Make sure to add a drizzle of olive oil. It gives a lovely richness, and we can’t get enough! Serve chilled for a refreshing treat.
13 – Honey Lime Shrimp Skewers
Honey lime shrimp skewers are an absolute crowd-pleaser. Sweet honey meets tangy lime for a perfect coating. The shrimp cook up juicy and tender.
We love grilling these for a smoky edge. Stick them on skewers for easy flipping and serving!
A sprinkle of chili powder adds a fun kick. Pair them with rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy these as a quick snack or a full dish. They’re a hit every time!
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.