Watermelon Avocado Salad

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Cool off with a refreshing Watermelon Avocado Salad, featuring juicy watermelon, creamy avocado, and a zesty lime-cilantro dressing—perfect for a light, vibrant summer dish.

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I’ve discovered a new favorite with my Avocado Watermelon Salad recipe. The blend of sweet watermelon and creamy avocado creates a delightful balance of flavors, making it one of the best watermelon salad recipes. Not only does it taste fantastic, but it’s also packed with nutrients.

This salad, featuring a refreshing dressing of cilantro, lime juice, and extra virgin olive oil, is perfect on its own or with added protein for a complete meal. With just a few ingredients and ready in under an hour, it’s a fantastic choice for summer lunches, dinners, or snacks.

Looking for a way to cool off? Dive into this refreshing salad and enjoy a delicious way to beat the heat.

Why you’ll love this recipe

Watermelon is a great addition to your summer salad and here are some reasons why you will love adding this ingredient to your next salad.

Quick and effortless: With under 10 ingredients this recipe requires little prep, and is a great choice if you’re looking for a fast and refreshing recipe.

Great flavor balance: This salad creates a harmonious taste profile thanks to mixing of sweet and savory when combining the watermelon, avocado and tangy cilantro lime dressing.

Refreshing tastes: Watermelon salad recipes are so refreshing and this is no exception. The combination of watermelon with fresh spinach, and avocado for a sweet, juicy, and hydrating flavor to savor. 

Pretty palette: The combination of bright red watermelon against the luminous green hue of the spinach and avocado create a vibrant color palette so appealing and you can’t wait to eat it.

Nutrient-rich: This salad packs a punch of nutrition thanks to all the nutrient-dense ingredients it provides.

Hydrating: Watermelon’s high water content helps keep you hydrated, making this salad both tasty and refreshing.

Versatile: This recipe is adaptable for any meal. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with a protein to make it more filling. 

Meets dietary needs: All the ingredients are compliant for those who are dairy and gluten free. It is also suitable for anyone who is following a vegetarian, vegan or paleo diet.

What is watermelon?

Watermelon, also known as Citrullus lanatus, is a juicy fruit that comes from the Cucurbitaceae family which also includes cucumbers, gourds, melons, squashes, and pumpkins. 

Though now cultivated worldwide, watermelon is originally native to Africa.  The plant thrives in tropical climates with 2 to 15 watermelons growing on each vine.

Its history dates back over 4,000 years with depictions  in Sanskrit and ancient Egyptian art. Advances in farming have made watermelons evolve into large, sweet, fruits, with tender flesh and fewer seeds. There are also some melons that are “seedless.”

The watermelon fruit is a berry known as a pepo. Its main characteristics are its flesh, seeds, rind, shape and size. 

The succulent flesh is composed of 90 percent water. It is red or pink. Other watermelon varieties can be orange, white, or yellow in color.

The seeds are usually black or brown. Seedless watermelons will have no seeds.

Watermelon’s hydrating flesh is surrounded by a thick and tough outer layer called the rind. It is green and may sometimes have lighter stripes or spots. 

The watermelon’s shape and size is also something that sets it apart. Watermelons can be round, oval or even square. The size ranges from mini personal-sized watermelons to large ones weighing up to 40 pounds. 

This fruit also contains various vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Get the specific watermelon nutritional information check out the Watermelon nutritional value section below.

Types of watermelon

There are more than 1,200 different types of watermelon. They range in size, weight and have their own unique flavor, color, and texture. 

They include seedless, mini, picnic, icebox (or cannonball), yellow/orange, black diamond, crimson sweet, sugar baby, golden midget, and moon and stars watermelon. 

Seedless watermelon

Seedless watermelons are watermelons that have very few or no seeds. These are sweet with a juicy and crisp taste.

Mini watermelon

Like the name says mini watermelons are small and personal sized. They are seedless, weigh between 2 and 7 pounds and will feed about two people. They are sweet and have a crisp texture similar to seedless watermelons.

Picnic watermelon

A picnic watermelon is a large, round, or oblong shaped weighing between 15 to 45 pounds. This is the type of watermelon that comes to mind when someone thinks of this fruit. They are sweet, juicy and have red or pink flesh.

Icebox (cannonball) watermelon

Icebox or cannonball watermelons are smaller than picnic watermelons and weigh between 5 and 15 pounds. They also have red or pink flesh that is sweet.

Yellow/orange watermelon

Yellow/orange watermelons have yellow or orange flesh. They can be seeded or seedless and have a sweeter, honey-like flavor.

Black diamond watermelon

The black diamond watermelon has a dark green, almost black outer rind. It is large and oval-shaped with a bright red, crisp, flavorful flesh with grey-black seeds.

Crimson sweet watermelon

Crimson sweet watermelon is round in shape. It is very sweet with bright red flesh and a thick outer rind with light and dark green stripes.

Sugar baby watermelon

Sugar baby watermelons are smaller, weigh about 6 to 10 pounds and are very sweet. They have a dense red flesh and a thin rind with dark green skin.

Golden midget watermelon

Golden midget watermelons are very small, weighing just a few pounds. Their rind turns a golden-yellow color when ripe. Inside there is a sweet pink flesh.

Moon and Stars watermelon

Moon and stars watermelon is a large, sweet watermelon with bright red flesh. The outside rind is dark green and speckled with bright yellow spots resembling moons and stars.

Watermelons found in most stores

The most common ones you will find in a grocery store include mini seedless, seedless, picnic, icebox or cannon ball, yellow/orange, crimson sweet, and sugar baby watermelon.

For this recipe I used the regular picnic watermelon.

What to do with a watermelon

The main culinary uses of a watermelon include eating it right off the rind, grilling it, adding it to smoothies, juices, desserts, salsas, or like this recipe adding this fruit to a salad.

When is watermelon in season

If you’re wondering, “when does watermelon season start?” Here are the details! 

Watermelon thrives in tropical climates and is in season during the warmer months, usually peaking in the summer. The exact timing depends on the region and climate. 

In the US the watermelon season runs from May to September with the peak times being July and August. For southern states watermelon season can start as early as April and run all the way into October.

Outside of the US watermelon season varies. In Southern Europe they are available from June to September, while in Northern Europe, the peak season is from July to September. 

In Asia, India’s watermelon season runs from March to July, and China’s peak season is from June to August. In Australia, watermelon is in season from December to May. 

In Africa, Northern Africa mirrors Southern Europe with a season from June to September, while Sub-Saharan Africa generally has watermelon from November to April. 

In South America, Brazil’s season is from October to March, and Argentina’s runs from December to March.

While watermelon is available all year, July and August appear to be the best time to get a flavorful and cost effective watermelon here and abroad. 

How to pick a watermelon

If you want to get the best watermelon there are a few things to look for. They include the

• Shape
• Field spot
• Sound
• Skin surface
• Weight
• Stem
• Size

Shape

How to select a watermelon includes examining the shape. Pick a watermelon that has a uniform, symmetrical shape that is round or oval. 

If you’re wondering “how to tell if watermelon is bad?” look for irregular lumps, bumps or dents. These are things to avoid when choosing a watermelon.

Check the field spot

You also want to check the field spot when picking a watermelon. This is the creamy, yellowish area on the watermelon where it rested on the ground. 

A good watermelon has a deep yellow or even golden field spot. Avoid watermelons with field spots that are white or green.

Listen to the sound it makes

How to pick the right watermelon also includes listening for a hollow sound. Gently tap the watermelon with your knuckles. If you hear a deep, hollow sound the watermelon is ripe.

Avoid watermelons that have a dull sound. These watermelons could be overripe or underripe.

Examine the skin and surface

How to choose a watermelon also includes looking at the skin and surface of the watermelon. A ripe watermelon has a dull surface. 

Avoid any melons with shiny surfaces that can indicate it is underripe. You also want to stay away from skin that is cut, bruised or has soft spots.

Check the weight

Feeling the weight can also tell you how to choose watermelon. If the watermelon feels heavy for its size this means it is full of water and is a good indication of it being juicy.

Look at the stem

How to pick out a good watermelon also includes looking at the stem. A ripe watermelon will have a stem that is brown and dried out. 

If you see a green stem on your watermelon it is underripe.

See the size

The final way how to tell if a watermelon is good is by looking at the size of the watermelon. If you want a juicier watermelon opt for a bigger watermelon. Alternatively, a smaller watermelon will be sweeter.

Follow these tips on how to pick the perfect watermelon and get a great salad recipe.

How to prepare a watermelon for salad

Here are the steps on how to prep your watermelon for the salad recipe:

• Wash
• Remove the ends
• Cut into quarters
• Remove the rind
• Dice
• Extract the seeds
• Use in your recipe

Wash the watermelon

The first step in preparing a watermelon for salad involves rinsing it under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.

Remove watermelon ends

There are a few steps involved in how to cut a watermelon. First you want to place the watermelon on its side on a cutting board* with a juice groove. Then slice off the top and bottom with a sharp Chef’s knife* so you are left with two flat sides.

Cut the watermelon in quarters

The next step in cutting the watermelon is to place the watermelon standing flat side down on the cutting board. Then carefully slice it down the middle so you end up with two halves. 

Take one half and place it flat side down on the cutting board. Then cut in half so you have quarters.

Repeat the steps on the other half so you end up with 8 quarter pieces of watermelon.

Remove the rind

Take one of the quarter pieces off and place them flat side down on the cutting board. Cut away the rind. Using a sharp Chef’s knife* cut the rind away from the watermelon. Start at the top and carefully slice down the curve of the watermelon until the rind is detached. 

Repeat on the remaining watermelon pieces until all the rind is removed.

Dice the watermelon

Take one of the peeled watermelon quarters and place it on the cutting board flat side down. Using a Chef’s knife* slice the watermelon lengthwise into 1-inch thick slices. 

Rotate the watermelon slices 90 degrees and then slice them crosswise into 1-inch wide strips so you create long sticks. 

Line up the watermelon sticks and cut them crosswise again to create 1-inch cubes. Repeat on the remaining watermelon quarters until all 

Remove seeds as you cut

If you see any large amounts of seeds you can cut them out with a paring knife* as you cut the watermelon into cubes.

Use in your recipe

Measure out the amount of watermelon you need for your recipe and continue the recipe as directed.

Watermelon nutritional value

If you are curious about what nutrients are in watermelon, here is the breakdown. According to the USDA watermelon nutrition facts, a 1 cup serving of diced watermelon contains the following: 

• 46 calories
• 1 gram protein
• 0 grams fat
• 12 grams carb
• 1 gram fiber

This shows there is no fat, protein, and few calories in watermelon. 

When it comes to how much sugar is in a watermelon there is no added sugar but naturally contains 12 grams of carbs. Since there is only one gram of fiber in watermelon it is considered a low fiber food. 

This amount of carbs is moderate depending on your diet. If you are someone who needs to limit carbs you may want to eat smaller portions of watermelon. 

In addition to the nutrients above, watermelon also contains 139 grams of water making it a very hydrating fruit.

The nutrition facts for watermelon also shows this fruit is a good source of vitamin C and contains traces of B vitamins (thiamin, niacin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, and B6) and the minerals calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and copper.

Aside from these nutrients in watermelon, this fruit also contains the antioxidants lycopene, glutathione, and flavonoids.

Potential benefits of watermelon

The potential watermelon health benefits come from the nutrients it provides. This is because the nutrients and antioxidants it provides (vitamin C, lycopene, glutathione, flavonoids) have been associated with lowering inflammation and oxidative stress. 

Some research also shows this fruit may improve blood pressure, cholesterol, heart, skin, hair, and immune health. 

Foods with high water content have also been said to be integral to good digestion so watermelon could have similar effects considering it contains so much water.

Is watermelon good for you?

How healthy a food is depends on the nutrients it contains. Watermelon is rich in water, vitamin C and antioxidants. These compounds are what are thought to provide potential benefits of eating watermelon making it a nutritious food.

However, there are a lot of nutrients in this food. So the health of watermelon depends on your dietary needs as well as the amount of watermelon.

Watermelon is a gluten and dairy free food which makes it great for anyone in need of these types of foods. Also, when eating in smaller serving sizes it can be part of a healthy diet.

If you are also curious if watermelon is bad for you it depends. Some may argue that there is a lot of carbs making this a sugary fruit. Watermelon also contains very little fiber.

Additionally, watermelon side effects have been reported when consumed in large doses. These include elevated potassium levels, blood sugar spikes, migraines, digestive issues, and allergic reactions. 

Those who need to limit their carbs should eat smaller servings.

Additionally, pairing watermelon with higher fiber foods like in the Recipe card below is recommended to increase the fiber and overall nutrient content of the food.

If you have an allergy to watermelon or just don’t like it you can find an ingredient replacement in the Substitutions section below.

Where to buy watermelon

The best time to buy watermelon is in the summer months, particularly July and August. These are the best months to get a ripe watermelon.

When it comes to how to buy a watermelon it is pretty easy. You can check out the produce department of your local supermarket, farmer’s market, or produce stores. 

You can also Google “Watermelon for sale near me” to find the best places to find where to buy watermelon.

If you don’t feel like going out and want to buy watermelon online check out outlets like Amazon Fresh* Whole Foods*. East Coast shoppers can also use Fresh Direct*.

Instacart* is another way to get watermelon delivery right to your door. Have one of their shoppers get the ingredients and deliver them, or opt for pickup from your favorite store.

*Some of these links are affiliate links, which means when you sign up or purchase from these links we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more in our disclosure statement.

Ingredients for making watermelon avocado salad

This watermelon salad recipe will keep you cool and refreshed during these hot summer days. The avocado salad and dressing can be made in under 30 minutes. It features the following:

• Watermelon 
• Avocado
• Spinach
• Red onion
• Cilantro
• Lime juice
• Extra virgin olive oil

Watermelon

The main ingredient of this salad is the watermelon. This sweet, juicy, and hydrating fruit brings a refreshing flavor that is crisp. As noted in the Watermelon nutritional value section above also shows this ingredient brings a lot of nutrients.

Avocado

Chopped avocado adds a creamy, buttery taste that enhances the richness of the salad. It’s smooth and rich texture 

Avocado also provides a source of essential healthy fat, fiber, and a good source of magnesium, zinc, and manganese, potassium, copper, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, and the B vitamins riboflavin, niacin, B6, pantothenic acid, and folate. It is also rich in the antioxidants lutein, zeaxanthin, cryptoxanthin, and carotenoids.

Spinach

Fresh spinach contributes a tender yet crunchy texture keeping the dish fresh. It’s mild, earthy flavor with a somewhat peppery adds a delicious element. 

This vegetable is also an excellent addition due to its richness in folate, manganese, and vitamins C and K.

Red Onion

The addition of red onion gives the salad a sharp, slightly sweet taste with a pungent bite. This ingredient adds to the tasty texture of the salad with its crisp and crunch. 

This vegetable is also a good source of the essential nutrients fiber, copper, manganese, and vitamin C.

Cilantro

Cilantro is a main ingredient in the dressing mixture. It provides a bright, fresh and citrusy flavor. 

This herb is a good source of vitamin K and contains the antioxidants beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin.

Lime juice

Another key ingredient in the dressing is lime juice. Lime juice adds tang and an acidic brightness to the salad. It flavors the dressing and offers a good source of vitamin C and the antioxidants flavonoids and carotenoids.

Extra virgin olive oil

The addition of extra virgin olive oil complements the dressing with a fruity, peppery taste with a mild, buttery note. Its smooth and rich texture enriches the salad. 

This ingredient is also rich in essential monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, vitamin E, and antioxidant phenols.

How to make a watermelon salad (step-by-step directions)

Here is the step-by-step breakdown of how to make this watermelon avocado salad:

Step 1

1. Peel and dice the watermelon into cubes. Rinse the watermelon under cold water to remove dirt and debris. Place the watermelon on its side on the grooved cutting board*. Using a sharp Chef’s knife* slice off the ends of the watermelon leaving two flat sides. 

Stand the watermelon on a flat end and slice it in half. Then cut the half in half so you have 4 quarters. Repeat on the second half of the watermelon so you are left with 8 quarter pieces.

Take one of the quarters and lay it flat side down on the cutting board. Carefully slice off the rind from top to bottom with the Chef’s knife until the rine is removed. Repeat on the remaining watermelon quarters. 

Then take a peeled watermelon quarter and slice it lengthwise into 1-inch thick slices, then rotate and slice it crosswise into 1-inch cubes. Continue on the remaining watermelon pieces until all the watermelon is cut. 

Remove any large amounts of seeds you see with a paring knife*. 

Once all the watermelon is cut, measure out 2 cups cubed watermelon and set them aside. 

Place any remaining watermelon in an airtight container and place in the fridge or freezer (see the How to store watermelon avocado salad section for storage details).

Step 2

2. Dice the avocado. Hold the avocado with one hand and using a paring knife*cut through the skins and flesh lengthwise around the avocado’s pit. Next, gently twist the two halves and pull them apart.

Remove the pit by carefully striking it with the blade of the knife and twist to release it from one half of the avocado. Be careful not to hurt yourself. Alternatively, you can scoop out the pit with a spoon or use an avocado pitter tool*.

Take one of the avocado halves and place it face down on the cutting board*. Peel off the avocado’s skin with your fingers. Then make lengthwise cuts about a 1/2 inch apart into the peeled avocado. Rotate the avocado and make crosswise cuts that are about a 1/2 inch apart to create diced pieces.

Repeat on the other half of the avocado until the whole avocado is peeled and diced. Set the avocado pieces aside.

Step 3

3. Place the watermelon and avocado in the fridge to chill for 15 to 30 minutes (optional).

Step 4

4. Peel and dice the onion. Lay the onion sideways on the cutting board*. Using a Chef’s knife* slice off the stem and remove its peel. 

Place the onion flat side down on the cutting board with the root end facing up. Slice it lengthwise from root to the flat bottom so you have two halves. 

Place one onion halve flat side down on the cutting board and make horizontal cuts across the onion about 1/4 to 1/2 inch apart, stopping just short of the root to keep it intact.

Next, make vertical cuts perpendicular to the horizontal slices, ensuring the root stays in place, creating small cubes.

Finally, make additional cuts perpendicular to the first set of cuts to achieve diced pieces. Discard the root and repeat with the remaining onion half until all of it is cut up. Place the diced onion aside.

Step 5

5. Prepare the spinach: Place the spinach in a colander* and rinse it thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat it dry with a towel and use a salad spinner* if necessary to remove excess moisture.

For large spinach leaves, tear them into bite-sized pieces; baby spinach can remain whole. Set the prepared spinach aside.

Step 6

6. Prep the cilantro. Place the cilantro in a colander and rinse it under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat dry or place in a salad spinner* to remove excess water.

Gather the cilantro leaves and remove the leaves from the stems by sliding your fingers down the stems or by using a Chef’s knife* to chop them off. 

Once the leaves are removed measure out one tablespoon of cilantro and set aside.

Step 7

7. Juice the lime. Roll the lime on a hard surface to separate the juice from the inside membranes and cells. Place the lime sideways on a cutting board* and cut in half widthwise. 

Press one lime half flat side down into a hand juicer*. Squeeze and twist to extract the juice. Repeat on the other lime half and set the juice aside.

Step 8

8. Make the dressing: Grab the food processor and

uncover

Then add extra virgin olive oil,

cilantro, and

lime juice.

Cover the food processor bowl and lock in place.

Then blend for 1 minute.

Uncover and

scrape down the sides of the food processor bowl with a spatula*.

Recover and lock the lid in place.

Blend again for another 2 minutes. Then pour the dressing into a small dish and set aside.

Step 9

9. Compile the salad. Grab a large mixing bowl* then

add spinach,

watermelon,

red onion, and

avocado.

Step 10

10. Top the salad with the dressing. 

Step 11

11. Toss the salad until it is well coated with dressing (about 1 minute).

Step 12

Then dish out

 and enjoy!

Watermelon ​​salad tips and tricks

Want to get the best watermelon avocado salad check out these tips and tricks! 

Use quality, fresh, ripe ingredients

Getting fresh, ripe ingredients will give you the best results. Here are tips on how what to look for when picking out ingredients: 

• Avocado: A ripe avocado is one that gives slightly when squeezed.
• Spinach: choose vibrant green leaves with a firm texture. Avoid spinach that is yellow or slimy
• Red onion: pick firm, heavy onions with dry papery skin with no soft spots or sprouting greens.
• Cilantro: look for cilantro with bright green leaves, firm moist stems, and a strong fresh aroma. 
• Lime: Get a lime that has a slightly yellow hue, heavy for its size, and has smooth, glossy skin. 

For tips on how to get a firm and juicy watermelon, check out the how to pick out a watermelon section above.

Chill avocado and watermelon before serving

For an even more refreshing summer salad, chill the watermelon and avocado for 15 to 30 minutes in the refrigerator before assembling the salad. 

Cut watermelon uniformly  

Try to make sure the watermelon pieces are all the same size. This ensures consistency in texture and flavor.

Dry spinach thoroughly 

Ensure the spinach is completely dry to prevent a soggy salad. Use a salad spinner* to remove extra moisture.

Maximize the amount of lime juice

Be sure to roll the lime on a hard surface prior to cutting. This will release more juice. 

Dressing blending tip

The food processor* is a great way to ensure a blended dressing. I find that scraping down the sides of the food processor bowl helps to redistribute the pieces that may not have been blended the first time. So blending a second time helps ensure even blending and creates a well-mixed dressing. 

Toss the salad with dressing gently

When adding in the dressing be sure to toss gently to avoid mashing soft ingredients like the avocado. It also ensures an even coating of dressing.

Save time with pre-prepped watermelon

You can save some time by buying pre-cut half or a quarter watermelon*. This may also make for easier handling when cutting the watermelon into pieces. If you want to skip cutting all together you can also get pre-diced watermelon*.  Simply measure out 2 cups of watermelon and set them aside 

Use gadgets to speed up prep time

The food processor is great for making this dressing easy. Another gadget that can speed up the avocado prep time is an avocado tool* that slices and pits avocados. This leaves the avocado ready to be diced in no time.

There is also a watermelon tool* that may make cubing watermelon easier.

Serve right after tossing

Eating the salad right after tossing gives you the best texture, and flavor.

Keep a fresher salad by adding dressing last

If you want the salad to last longer keep the dressing separate on any potential leftovers. You can also create individual portions and dress them separately to keep the salad fresher longer.

Recipe additions/substitutions/variations

If you are looking for ways to make the recipe your own or want to swap out an ingredient check out the recipe additions, substitutions, and variations below.

Additions

Try some of these ingredient additions for additional flavors and textures.

Savory additions

Add some savoriness with the addition of vegan whole or crumbled feta cheese* or goat cheese*.

Greens additions

For added flavors and textures incorporate greens like arugula, kale, mixed greens, or Swiss chard.  

Arugula adds a slight peppery bite and spicy flavor contrasting the sweetness of watermelon. Kale gives you a hearty texture and robust flavor. Mixed greens such as romaine, red leaf, and butter lettuce give diverse textures and flavors. Swiss chard adds a slight flavor and vibrant color.

Crunch additions

Add a dose of crunch to the salad with toasted almonds, pecans, walnuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or pine nuts

Other ways to amp up the crunchiness is by making it a watermelon cucumber salad. Simply add a diced cucumber for added crisp and hydration.

Spicy additions

If your craving a spicy kick you can add a sprinkling of cracked black pepper*, crushed red pepper flakes*, or a few fresh thinly sliced jalapeño slices.

Sweet additions

For a sweeter salad add some diced mango, apple slices, pomegranate seeds, fresh blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries. 

If you want sweeter dressing you can also blend these fruits into the dressing after adding the lime juice. You can also turn this dressing into a honey lime cilantro dressing with the addition of a little raw honey*.

Citrus additions

A squeeze of orange, grapefruit, or lemon juice to the dressing enhances the citrusy flavors.

Herbal additions

Add some torn fresh mint leaves to balance the sweetness of watermelon for a refreshing and cool taste that compliments the cilantro enhancing its freshness while also contrasting the tangy lime and sharp red onion. 

Other fresh herbs that complement the salad include basil, parsley, and chives. The basil adds a sweet, slightly peppery flavor that pairs well with watermelon. 

Parsley gives a peppery flavor brightening up the salad flavor wise as well as with its nice vibrant hue. Chives offer a mild onion flavor that goes well with the red onion without overpowering the salad’s taste.

Experiment with various recipe additions, but know that any changes will affect the taste, texture, and nutritional value of the salad.

Substitutions

Don’t have an ingredient or don’t like something? No worries! See below for recipe ingredient substitutions.

Watermelon substitute

Two cups of diced cantaloupe or honeydew melon can be used instead of watermelon. They provide a similar sweet and juicy taste.

Avocado substitute

A medium-sized peeled, pitted, and diced mango can be used in place of avocado. You can also sub in a medium pear peeled and diced, or a small cooked diced sweet potato.  These ingredients add a sweet and creamy texture mimicking avocado.

Spinach substitute

In place of spinach you can use 4 cups of mixed greens, arugula, kale, or romaine lettuce. Mixed greens and arugula add a peppery flavor, while kale offers a bitter taste and a heartier texture. Romaine provides a mildly sweet flavor and a crisper, less leafy texture.

Red onion substitute

Instead of red onion, you can use a medium white, yellow, or sweet onion. Alternatively, 2 to 3 medium finely diced shallots or 2 to 3 thinly sliced green onions can also serve as substitutes.

White onions have a sharp, pungent flavor. Yellow onions and shallots offer a milder taste, while sweet onions are less pungent. Green onions are milder and slightly sweeter.

Cilantro substitute

In place of cilantro you can use a tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or basil. Parsley adds a fresh and peppery taste, while basil adds a sweet fragrant aroma.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil substitute

You can replace extra virgin olive oil with two tablespoons of avocado oil, walnut oil, or flaxseed oil. Avocado oil provides a neutral flavor, whereas walnut and flaxseed oils impart a nutty taste.

Lime juice substitute

In place of lime juice you want to use one small lemon or two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Lemon juice will provide a similar tang but the vinegar will be less tangy due to vinegar’s more acidic taste.

These substitutions may alter the taste and nutritional profile of the original recipe

Variations

Looking for a twist on this watermelon avocado salad recipe? Check out these variations.

Create a mediterranean twist: Turn your salad into a tangy, creamy watermelon feta salad with a 1/2 cup crumbled vegan feta* cheese and 1/4 cup pitted sliced Kalamata olives.

Turn into a tropical fusion: Replace the watermelon with 2 cups of diced pineapple. Sub in 1 cup papaya in place of avocado. Add 1/2 cup toasted coconut flakes* and substitute lime juice with 2 tablespoons of passion fruit. This version creates a sweeter, creamy tropical flair.

Spicy and tangy salad: Add in a 1/2 diced jalapeño or 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes* for a spicy kick. Swap half lime juice for a tablespoon of tamarind paste.

Southwestern style: Add 1/2 cup black beans or grilled corn and a sprinkle of cumin* or chili powder*.

Herbed watermelon salad: Create a watermelon basil salad or watermelon mint salad by adding 1 or 2 tablespoons fresh mint or basil. These herbs add a fresh and aromatic note. 

If you want to add a tangy and creamy element to the salad you can also drop in a 1/4 cup vegan goat cheese*.

Watermelon cucumber salad: This recipe twist adds a medium peeled and diced cucumber for extra hydration. Feel free to add in a 1/4 cup of vegan feta* or goat cheese* for extra creaminess and added savory flavor.

These variations bring a new flavor element to this salad recipe.

*Some of these links are affiliate links, which means when you sign up or purchase from these links we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more in our disclosure statement.

What to serve with watermelon salad

There are so many great ways to enjoy this spinach watermelon salad. 

You can enjoy it on its own as a snack and side. 

Or ir you are looking to make more of a meal you can add some of the following: 

Turn it into a protein packed salad by adding the following: 

Grilled proteins: Top with a serving of grilled steak, chicken, salmon, or seasoned shrimp for a full meal (usually about 3 oz)

Plant-based proteins: Add a 1/2 cup of gluten free protein rich grains like quinoa, teff, amaranth, or millet make a filling fiber rich meal. 

Alternatively, you can also add a 1/2 cup roasted garlic beans, chickpeas or lentils for a full plant-based meal.

Summer soups: Cold soups are great for the summer heat. Serve the salad aside a chilled gazpacho or if it’s not too hot try a hearty lentil soup. 

More veggies: Increase your nutrient and fiber intake with the addition of roasted veggies. Balsamic Asparagus or Broccoli are great companions for this salad.

How to store watermelon salad leftovers

If you have leftovers here are the details on how to store watermelon watermelon avocado salad as well as any remaining watermelon and cilantro.

Storing dressed salad leftovers

If the salad is already compiled with the dressing you want to place the leftovers in an airtight container and put it in the fridge for one to two days. 

Freezing is not recommended because it will alter the taste and texture of the salad.

Gently toss the leftovers before serving to redistribute the dressing before serving.

Storing the salad when made ahead of time

If you make this salad ahead of time and want to store it for later you need to keep the salad and dressing separate. 

Place the spinach, watermelon, avocado, and onion in separate airtight containers. This will prevent them from getting soggy. Then place the dressing in a separate smaller airtight container.

Place all the containers in the fridge for up to 1 to 2 days. The dressing will last for one week.

When ready to eat the salad dress the salad just prior to serving

Pour the dressing over the salad just before eating to keep it crisp.

How to store cut watermelon and cilantro

If you have any extra watermelon and are asking yourself, “How long does watermelon last?” Here are the details of how to store cut watermelon. 

Take the remaining watermelon pieces and put them in an airtight container and place them in the fridge for 3 to 5 days. 

Alternatively, if you are wondering, “Can you freeze watermelon?” Yes, you can freeze watermelon. Simply take the cut watermelon pieces on a baking sheet and put them in the freezer for 1 to 2 hours. This will pre-freeze them. 

Once frozen, transfer the frozen pieces to an airtight sealable freezer-safe container. Put it in the freezer. 

As to how long does cut watermelon last in the freezer for 6 to 12 months.

If you have any leftover cilantro you wrap it in a damp paper towel and place it in an airtight container. The cilantro will stay fresh in the fridge for up to one week. 

Additionally, you can freeze cilantro by placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. You can also put the remaining cilantro in ice cube trays with a bit of water or oil. There it will stay fresh for 6 to 12 months. 

The texture and flavor of cilantro will change when frozen cilantro is thawed. So it is best used in cooked dishes.

Common and FAQs

Equipment Used in this Recipe*

Here is a list of equipment or similar items used to make this Watermelon Avocado Salad recipe.

• Food Processor or Magic bullet
• Mixing bowls 
• Wooden salad tongs
• Juicer 
• Paring knife 
• Chef’s knife
• Spatula
• Colander
• Grooved cutting board
• Regular cutting board 

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Other fruit salad recipes to try

• Peach Spinach Salad
• Prosciutto Salad with Arugula and Pears

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This recipe was originally published on June 24, 2021. It has been updated to reflect a clearer outline, new photos, and recipe notes.

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