Shellfish Free Vegan Watermelon Carpaccio
Watermelon gets a serious glow-up here, sliced into elegant rounds and fanned across a platter like a dish you'd order at a rooftop restaurant. The lime-agave dressing is bright and barely sweet, soaking into the chilled fruit just enough to make every bite taste intentional. Thin ribbons of cucumber and red onion add crunch and a little bite, while fresh mint and torn basil keep things herbaceous and summery. Capers are optional, but if you're into that briny pop against the sweetness of the watermelon, don't skip them. Everything here is whole, plant-based, and completely free of any seafood or shellfish concerns — no label-reading required. A quick chill in the fridge before serving is the only patience you'll need, and the payoff is a stunning centerpiece that tastes as good as it looks. Finish with flaky salt and a squeeze of lime, and watch it disappear faster than anything else on the table.
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!