MSG Free Vegan Watermelon Carpaccio
Watermelon gets a serious glow-up here, sliced into thin, jewel-bright rounds and fanned across a platter like something you'd order at a fancy restaurant — except you made it at home in minutes. The dressing is a simple whisk of extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lime juice, and a touch of agave syrup, which brings out the natural sweetness of the fruit without overpowering it. Thinly sliced cucumber and red onion add crunch and a little bite, while fresh mint and torn basil layer in an herby, aromatic lift that makes every forkful feel refreshing. Optional capers bring a briny pop that plays beautifully against the juicy watermelon if you're feeling adventurous. Every single ingredient here is whole, clean, and naturally free of added flavor enhancers — no seasoning packets, no processed condiments, nothing that sneaks in unwanted additives. A short chill in the fridge lets the dressing soak in just enough before you finish the whole thing with flaky sea salt and a squeeze of lime at the table. It's the kind of dish that looks wildly impressive, travels well to a summer gathering, and comes together with almost zero effort.
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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.
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