Recipe: Spicy Melon Salad

Saturday, August 16, 2014

Melon season is in full swing and trust me folks, if you haven't had a melon from one of our local farmers... then you just havne't had a melon. This year has been extra nice to the melon crop and they are sweet, juicy and oh so delicious! We spent the first month of melon season scarfing them down as is, but now that we've satisfied that craving, we are ready for something a little more sophisticated. Enter: Chef Asata Reid and her mouthwatering Spicy Melon Salad.

Ingredients:

For the dressing

• 3 Tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 Tbsp grated ginger 
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 1/2 Tsp sesame seeds
• 1 Tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 dash cayenne pepper

For the Salad:

• 1-2 jalapeno peppers
• 2 cups watermelon
• 2 cups cantaloupe
• 2 cups honeydew
• 1 cup cucumber
• 1 Tbsp each - cilantro, basil & mint

Step 1: Combine all ingredients for dressing in a small bowl and whisk together

Step 2: Cut the melon, jalapeño pepper & cucumber and place in a large bowl.

TIP: For less spice, take the seeds out of the jalapeño pepper.

Step 3: Chop the herbs

Step 4: Drizzle melon with dressing, herbs, & cayenne pepper

Step 5: Toss to coat and refrigerate 10-15 minutes

Step 6: Enjoy with a friend and a glass of wine