Emulsifier Free Vegan Watermelon Carpaccio
Thin-sliced watermelon fanned across a platter and dressed with bright lime and fresh herbs is the kind of dish that stops a table mid-conversation. The dressing here is a simple shake of olive oil, lime juice, agave, salt, and pepper — nothing processed, nothing hidden, just clean whole ingredients that come together beautifully. Because every component is naturally free of added emulsifiers, you don't have to squint at a label or second-guess a single thing on the ingredient list. Scattered cucumber, red onion, mint, and torn basil add crunch and fragrance, while optional capers bring a little briny punch if you're feeling it. A short chill in the fridge lets the dressing soak into the watermelon just enough to deepen the flavor without losing that fresh, juicy bite. A pinch of flaky sea salt right before serving pulls everything together in the best possible way. It's effortlessly elegant, genuinely refreshing, and proof that the most satisfying plates are often the simplest ones.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 1 small seedless watermelon (about 5–6 lb), rind removed
For the dressing
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (from about 1 lime)
- 1 tsp agave syrup
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
For the topping
- ½ english cucumber, very thinly sliced
- ¼ small red onion, very thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves
- 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1 tbsp capers, drained (optional)
For serving
- flaky sea salt, for finishing
- lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- 1
Stand the watermelon half cut-side down on the cutting board. Using a sharp chef's knife, slice the flesh into rounds about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick, then cut each round into half-moons or leave whole if small enough to fan attractively on the platter.
- 2
Arrange the watermelon slices in overlapping, slightly fanned layers across a large serving platter, covering the surface evenly.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!