Refreshing, low-calorie, full of flavor, and EASY with only 5 easy ingredients…this summer salad checks all the boxes for perfect summer side dish!
This watermelon red onion salads is one of those healthy watermelon recipes that is so fast and easy and GOOD, you won’t believe it. This summer salad is easy for picnics and fast side dishes. The combo of ingredients might sound scary. Be brave, you’ll be so glad you gave it a try.
This watermelon salad is an old-school church potluck classic. From “the good ol’ days” of potlucks and sharing dishes.
The name Watermelon Red Onion Salad is a bit scary, don’t you think? But the recipe is light, delicious, and absolutely perfect for summer. This is one of those recipes that kids will look at and be afraid of, adults may be a bit wary, but anyone who is brave enough to try it will immediately be raving and praising you on your genius.
Where did the seeded watermelons go? Honestly, when I head to the store to grab a watermelon there is nothing but seedless versions available. I remember “back in the day” when those seedless versions became the newest thing. Now, I LOOK for the seeded kind. I want to have a day when my 17 year old son cuts into a watermelon and freaks out because there are seeds. Darn kid doesn’t understand how a watermelon SHOULD look because of these seedless versions.
Try using a specialty or flavored balsamic vinegar for this recipe. You’ll get an added layer of tasty flavor! My sister’s boyfriend gave me cherry balsamic vinegar that tastes amazing in this recipe!
This salad comes together quickly and with only a few easy ingredients. Watermelon Onion Salad is both sweet and bitter, a perfect side dish for your next gathering or backyard grilling.
Do I have to use balsamic vinegar?
No, absolutely not. I would try a red wine vinegar, instead. I find balsamic to work wonderfully because of the earthy, sweet flavor you find with them.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes, absolutely. However, like any watermelon salad, the longer the watermelon sits in the marinade the more it will seep liquid. You really don’t want to make this salad much more in advance than the morning of.
When serving this for kids, create another bowl without the onions but add the vinegar and sugar. They will love the flavor and being included and you’ll love that you’ve introduced them to a new flavor profile. In fact, maybe you’ll catch one sneaking a bit of your version.
You don’t have to use red onions for this recipe. Go ahead and try whatever onions you have on hand. However, red onion DOES seem to taste the best and I highly recommend you use it whenever you can.
Serve this salad up alongside grilled burgers & hotdogs, pork chops, or your favorite grilled chicken recipe.
Easy to make, good for you, and great for barbecues!
It’s refreshing and interesting. You won’t eat tons and tons of it, but you will enjoy every bite! Give it a try and be surprised!
Watermelon Salad with Red Onion
Ingredients
- 1/2 large watermelon cut into large chunks
- 3 red onions sliced thinly
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped optional
Instructions
- Mix ingredients in bowl.
- Let sit at room temperature for several hours.
- Drain off extra liquid.
- Serve.
Notes
Nutrition
So, if you are looking for an easy and healthy addition to your summer salads…give this Watermelon Red Onion salad a try!!
Or if you’re on the search for other delicious salads, try some of these:
