Refreshing Watermelon with Basil Lime Sugar
Introduction
As summer unfolds, the simple pleasures of fresh fruit can be elevated to delightful culinary experiences with just a few enhancements. Today’s recipe, Watermelon with Basil Lime Sugar, combines the sweet juiciness of watermelon with an aromatic sugar blend that features basil, lime, and a hint of sea salt. This dish not only refreshes but also impresses with its vibrant flavors and colors, making it a perfect addition to any summer gathering or a simple, healthy snack on a warm day.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon (5g) flake sea salt
- 1 teaspoon very finely grated lime zest (from 1 small lime)
- 1/4 cup (3g) loosely packed fresh basil leaves, washed and completely dried
- 4-6 small fresh mint leaves (optional)
- 1 lemon verbena leaf (optional)
- 1 small watermelon, cut into wedges
Directions
- Prepare the Sugar Mixture: In a food processor or a clean spice grinder, combine the granulated sugar, flake sea salt, lime zest, and the herbs (basil, mint if using, and lemon verbena). Pulse the mixture until the basil is finely ground and the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the sugar.
- Serve: Arrange the watermelon wedges on a serving plate. Generously sprinkle the aromatic sugar mixture over the slices, enhancing their natural sweetness with a zesty and herbal kick.
- Storage: If you have any leftover sugar mixture, it can be kept uncovered at room temperature. It will remain usable for up to one week, although it will dry out over time.
Nutritional Information
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 90 kcal per serving
- Servings: 6
Closing Thoughts
This Watermelon with Basil Lime Sugar recipe is a testament to how minimal ingredients can transform a simple dish into an extraordinary one. It’s ideal for those who appreciate the nuances of flavor and the joy of using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Whether it’s a family BBQ or a quiet afternoon by yourself, this recipe guarantees to offer a refreshing twist to your summer days.
Enjoy the bursts of lime, the herbal notes of basil, and the subtle sharpness of sea salt mingled with the sweet crunch of watermelon. Here’s to a delightful, healthy, and flavorful summer!
Watermelon with Basil Lime Sugar
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
As summer rolls in, there’s no better way to enjoy its bounties than with slices of crisp watermelon enhanced with a sprinkle of basil lime sugar. This recipe offers a refreshing twist to a classic summer fruit, combining the cool sweetness of watermelon with a zest of lime and a hint of herbs, creating an irresistibly fresh dessert or snack.
The addition of finely ground basil, mint, and a touch of lemon verbena introduces a complex layer of flavors that makes this simple dish sophisticated enough for any gathering. Whether served at a casual backyard BBQ or as a chic party appetizer, these watermelon wedges are guaranteed to refresh and impress your guests with minimal effort.
Ingredients
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon (5g) flake sea salt
1 teaspoon very finely grated lime zest (from 1 small lime)
1/4 cup (3g) loosely packed fresh basil leaves, washed and completely dried
4–6 small fresh mint leaves (optional)
1 lemon verbena leaf (optional)
1 small watermelon, cut into wedges
Instructions
Combine sugar, salt, lime zest, and herbs in a food processor or a clean spice grinder. Pulse until basil is finely ground and evenly distributed throughout the sugar mixture.
Arrange watermelon slices on a serving plate and sprinkle generously with the sugar mixture.
The sugar mixture will keep, uncovered at room temperature, for up to one week (it will dry out as it sits).
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 90 kcal