Cucumber Watermelon Salad with Tequila Citrus Dressing
Cucumber Watermelon Salad with Tequila Citrus Dressing is a vibrant summer salad that is perfect for summer gatherings. This recipe combines the crispness of cucumbers with the juicy sweetness of watermelon. The addition of peppers and avocado adds extra flavor, while the tequila citrus dressing adds a zesty and unique twist.
My family and friends love this salad, and I make it often for potluck meals. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, looking for a light lunch, or simply craving something fresh and delicious, this salad is sure to impress. It goes fantastic with Beer Can Chicken or Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin.
Ingredients
- English Cucumbers: These cucumbers have a thin skin, fewer seeds and does not require peeling.
- Watermelon: Look for a ripe, sweet watermelon that is firm, juicy, and deep red in color. Seedless watermelons are convenient, but if using regular watermelon, be sure to remove the seeds.
- Peppers: Use yellow or orange bell peppers, their mild flavor and sweetness compliments the cucumber and watermelon.
- Avocados: Avocados add a rich, creamy texture to the salad.
- Red Onion: the vibrant purple color of red onions adds a colorful touch to salad. They have a mild, slightly sweet, sharp flavor which balances well with the other vegetables.
- Cilantro: This refreshing herb adds an aromatic flavor to the recipe.
- Avocado Oil: The mild flavor complements the other ingredients in this recipe.
- Can you use olive oil instead? For sure, although olive has a stronger flavor than the neutral taste of avocado oil. If substituting be sure to use extra virgin olive oil.
- Orange and Lime Juice: this recipe is all about freshness so be sure to use fresh squeezed juice.
- Tequilla: Tequilla adds a burst of flavor to this citrus dressing.
- Can I skip the tequila to make the dressing alcohol free? Absolutely, just add a bit more lime juice.
Pair this summer salad with these Entrees
Looking for a great main course recipe that pairs well, try these!
I don’t typically get excited about salads, but this Cucumber Watermelon Salad with Tequila Citrus Dressing is truly exceptional! The blend of cucumbers, watermelon, cilantro, bell peppers and avocado create a tantalizing explosion of flavors. My homemade citrus dressing elevates this salad to a whole new level of Yum!
more salad favorites
Compliment any meal with a delicious salad.
This post was originally published May 24, 2013. Occasionally I update with fresh tips, content and photos.
Cucumber Watermelon Salad with Tequila Citrus Dressing
Ingredients
- 3 cups seedless watermelon cubed
- 2 cups English cucumber cubed
- 1 cup yellow bell pepper diced
- 1/2 cup red onion diced
- 1 ripe avocado cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro finely chopped
For the dressing
- 1/4 cup avocado oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 tablespoons tequila
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl toss together the watermelon, cucumber, bell pepper and red onion.
- Add the cilantro and diced avocado and gently mix.
Prepared the tequila citrus dressing
- Using a small jar, add the avocado oil, orange juice, lime juice, tequila, salt and pepper. Cover with lid and shake well to combine the dressing.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Drizzle over the watermelon-cucumber mix and toss until combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
What would you suggest to substitute for the tequila?
I would add 1 tbsp more of lime juice and 1 tbsp more of orange juice.
where would you find the avocado oil.?
Hi Teri, I bought mine at Costco
The author served me this salad and I can attest it is amazing! As a vegetarian it is always a treat to get a a new salad idea! Adding it to my summer salad repetoire. Delicious.
I would love for you to sample more of my vegetarian dishes!