Summer in our home is synonymous with light, vibrant, and incredibly refreshing food. We crave dishes that are not only delicious but also help us beat the heat. This year, Watermelon and Cucumber Skewers have become our absolute go-to snack and appetizer. From impromptu backyard barbecues to lazy afternoons by the pool, these simple skewers have been a hit with everyone, from the pickiest eaters to the most adventurous palates. The kids love the sweetness of the watermelon, and I appreciate the crisp coolness the cucumber brings. It’s a delightful combination that’s both healthy and satisfying, and honestly, they are so easy to make, it’s almost embarrassing how often we’ve been enjoying them. If you’re searching for a recipe that screams summer refreshment, look no further – these Watermelon and Cucumber Skewers are about to become your new seasonal obsession.
Ingredients
- Watermelon: Choose a seedless watermelon for ease, or remove seeds from a seeded variety. You’ll need about half of a medium-sized watermelon, cubed into bite-sized pieces. Watermelon provides sweetness and hydration.
- Cucumber: English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work best due to their thin skin and fewer seeds. You’ll need 2-3 cucumbers, sliced into thick rounds or half-moons, depending on size, to match the watermelon pieces. Cucumber adds a refreshing coolness and crunch.
- Fresh Mint: A small bunch of fresh mint leaves. Mint provides a burst of aromatic freshness and complements both watermelon and cucumber beautifully.
- Feta Cheese (Optional): About 4 ounces of feta cheese, crumbled or cubed. Feta adds a salty and tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the watermelon and the coolness of the cucumber. For a vegan option, omit the feta or consider using a plant-based feta alternative.
- Balsamic Glaze (Optional): A drizzle of balsamic glaze for added sweetness and tang. Balsamic glaze enhances the flavors and adds a touch of sophistication. Alternatively, you can use a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a brighter flavor.
- Olive Oil (Optional): A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Olive oil adds richness and a subtle peppery note.
- Sea Salt and Black Pepper (Optional): A pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors and create a balanced taste profile.
Instructions
- Prepare the Watermelon: Begin by carefully washing your watermelon under cool running water. Using a sharp knife, cut the watermelon in half. Then, cut one half into slices, and remove the rind. Cut the watermelon flesh into approximately 1-inch cubes. Aim for pieces that are easy to thread onto skewers and comfortable to eat in one or two bites. If using a seeded watermelon, make sure to remove as many seeds as possible while cubing. Place the watermelon cubes in a bowl.
- Prepare the Cucumber: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. If using English cucumbers, there’s no need to peel them. For regular cucumbers, you might prefer to peel them partially or fully depending on your preference. Slice the cucumbers into rounds that are about the same thickness as your watermelon cubes, around ½ inch to ¾ inch thick. If the cucumber rounds are large, you can cut them in half or quarters to create half-moon or smaller triangle shapes that are similar in size to the watermelon cubes. Place the cucumber slices in a separate bowl.
- Prepare the Mint: Wash the fresh mint leaves and gently pat them dry with a paper towel. You can leave the mint leaves whole or tear larger leaves into smaller pieces, depending on your preference and the size of your skewers. Set the mint aside.
- Prepare the Feta (Optional): If using feta cheese, crumble it if you have a block or cut pre-crumbled feta into smaller, more manageable pieces. If you are using cubed feta, ensure the cubes are roughly the same size as the watermelon and cucumber pieces for easy skewering and visual appeal. Keep the feta ready in a small bowl.
- Assemble the Skewers: Now comes the fun part – assembling the skewers! Take your skewers (wooden or metal skewers will work). If using wooden skewers, it’s a good idea to soak them in water for about 30 minutes prior to assembly to prevent them from burning if you plan to briefly grill or broil the skewers, or simply to prevent them from splintering. Start threading the ingredients onto the skewers in an alternating pattern. A suggested pattern is: watermelon, cucumber, mint leaf, and repeat. You can add feta cheese to this pattern as well, perhaps placing a small piece of feta between the watermelon and cucumber, or after a mint leaf. Feel free to experiment with different patterns to create visually appealing skewers. You can make them as simple as watermelon and cucumber only, or more elaborate by adding mint and feta.
- Arrange and Drizzle (Optional): Once all the skewers are assembled, arrange them on a serving platter. If you are using balsamic glaze, drizzle it lightly over the skewers. Be careful not to over-drizzle, as balsamic glaze can be quite strong in flavor. A light drizzle adds a touch of sweetness and tang. If you prefer a brighter, fresher flavor, you can squeeze a bit of fresh lime juice over the skewers instead of balsamic glaze. For added richness, you can also lightly drizzle with high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
- Season (Optional): For a final touch, you can sprinkle a very tiny pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper over the skewers. This might seem unusual for a fruit-based skewer, but a touch of salt and pepper enhances the sweetness of the watermelon and the freshness of the cucumber, creating a more balanced and flavorful bite. Be very careful not to over-salt.
- Chill and Serve: For the best flavor and refreshment, chill the assembled skewers in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the skewers are perfectly cool and refreshing, especially on a hot day. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximate)
- Serving Size: 2 skewers
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Vitamin C: 15% DV (Daily Value)
- Vitamin A: 10% DV (Daily Value)
Note: Nutrition facts are approximate and can vary based on ingredient amounts and specific brands. These values are estimated for skewers made with watermelon, cucumber, feta cheese and a light drizzle of balsamic glaze. Omitting feta or balsamic glaze will reduce the calorie and fat content.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes (recommended, optional)
Total Time: 50 minutes (including chill time)
These Watermelon and Cucumber Skewers are incredibly quick and easy to prepare. The majority of the time is spent simply washing and cutting the fruits and assembling the skewers. Chilling them is recommended to enhance the refreshing quality and allow the flavors to meld, but even without chilling, they are delicious and ready to enjoy in under 30 minutes. This makes them perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you need a healthy and refreshing snack in a hurry.
How to Serve
These versatile skewers are perfect for a variety of occasions and can be served in numerous ways:
- Appetizer: Serve as a light and refreshing appetizer at summer parties, barbecues, or picnics. They are visually appealing and a great conversation starter.
- Snack: Enjoy them as a healthy and hydrating snack any time of day, especially during hot weather. They are perfect for kids and adults alike.
- Side Dish: Pair them with grilled dishes like chicken, fish, or vegetarian burgers as a refreshing side. They complement heavier meals beautifully.
- Dessert: Serve them as a light and naturally sweet dessert option. They are a guilt-free way to satisfy a sweet craving after a meal.
- Poolside Treat: Keep a platter of these skewers chilled by the pool for a refreshing and hydrating treat on a hot day.
- Lunchbox Addition: Pack a few skewers in a lunchbox for a healthy and fun addition to a midday meal.
- Party Platter: Include them on a larger party platter alongside other appetizers like hummus and vegetables, cheese and crackers, or fruit salad.
- Garnish: Use them as a colorful and edible garnish for summer cocktails or mocktails.
Additional Tips for Perfect Watermelon and Cucumber Skewers
- Choose the Right Watermelon: Look for a ripe, sweet watermelon. A good indicator is a deep, hollow sound when you tap it. Heavy for its size is also a good sign. Pre-cut watermelon from the grocery store can be convenient, but for the best flavor, opt for a whole watermelon and cut it yourself.
- Select Quality Cucumbers: Opt for firm cucumbers with smooth, dark green skin. Avoid cucumbers that are soft, wrinkled, or have yellow spots. English or Persian cucumbers are ideal as they have less seeds and thinner skin.
- Don’t Skip the Mint: Fresh mint is key to the refreshing flavor of these skewers. Don’t substitute with dried mint. If you don’t have mint, fresh basil or even a sprig of rosemary can offer interesting alternative herbal notes, but mint is truly the classic pairing.
- Soak Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before assembling. This prevents them from burning if you decide to briefly grill or broil the skewers, and also helps prevent splintering.
- Prepare Ahead: You can prepare the watermelon and cucumber cubes ahead of time and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a day. Assemble the skewers closer to serving time for the freshest taste and texture.
- Get Creative with Additions: Feel free to experiment with other additions to your skewers. Small mozzarella balls (bocconcini), cherry tomatoes, red onion slivers, or even grilled halloumi cheese can be delicious additions. For a spicy kick, add a thin slice of jalapeño.
- Make it Vegan: To make these skewers fully vegan, simply omit the feta cheese. They are still incredibly flavorful and refreshing without it. You can enhance the flavor with a vegan balsamic glaze or a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor alternative.
- Grill for a Smoky Flavor (Optional): For a unique twist, you can briefly grill the assembled skewers for just a minute or two per side. This will give the watermelon a slightly caramelized and smoky flavor. Be careful not to grill them for too long, as the watermelon can become mushy. Grilling is best done over medium heat and watch them closely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the watermelon and cucumber cubes a day in advance and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to assemble the skewers closer to serving time, ideally within a few hours, to maintain the freshest texture and prevent the watermelon from becoming too watery. Assembled skewers can be chilled for up to 4 hours before serving.
Q2: What if I don’t like feta cheese? Can I use something else?
A: Absolutely! Feta cheese is optional. If you don’t like feta, you can easily omit it. Alternatively, you can substitute it with other cheeses like goat cheese, fresh mozzarella, or even small cubes of cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile. For a vegan option, consider using a plant-based feta alternative or simply enjoy them without cheese – they are delicious either way.
Q3: Can I use a different type of vinegar instead of balsamic glaze?
A: Yes, you can definitely experiment with other types of vinegar. A light drizzle of white balsamic vinegar or even a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice can provide a bright and tangy alternative to balsamic glaze. For a sweeter option, you could try a fruit-infused vinegar or a honey-lime dressing.
Q4: Are these skewers suitable for kids?
A: Yes, these skewers are generally very kid-friendly! The sweetness of the watermelon and the mild flavor of cucumber are usually a hit with children. They are also a fun and visually appealing way to encourage kids to eat fruits and vegetables. Make sure to cut the pieces into appropriate bite sizes for younger children and supervise them while eating from skewers.
Q5: Can I add other fruits or vegetables to these skewers?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and add other fruits and vegetables. Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers (especially red or yellow for sweetness), red onion slivers, cantaloupe, honeydew melon, or even pineapple chunks would pair well with watermelon and cucumber. Consider what flavors you enjoy and experiment with different combinations.
Q6: How do I prevent the skewers from becoming soggy?
A: Watermelon naturally has high water content. To minimize sogginess, try to assemble the skewers closer to serving time. If you prepare the ingredients ahead, store the cut watermelon and cucumber separately. Avoid adding salt directly to the watermelon cubes in advance, as salt can draw out moisture. Also, chilling the skewers before serving helps to keep them firm and refreshing.
Q7: Can I grill these skewers?
A: Yes, you can briefly grill these skewers for a unique flavor. Grill them over medium heat for just a minute or two per side, until the watermelon is slightly caramelized and grill marks appear. Be careful not to over-grill, as the watermelon can become mushy. Grilling adds a smoky sweetness that complements the freshness of the cucumber and mint.
Q8: What are some variations I can try?
A: There are many ways to vary these skewers! You can try:
* Spicy Skewers: Add a thin slice of jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
* Mediterranean Skewers: Include olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil and oregano.
* Tropical Skewers: Add chunks of pineapple, mango, and a sprinkle of shredded coconut.
* Herbaceous Skewers: Experiment with different herbs like basil, cilantro, or dill in addition to or instead of mint.
* Sweet Skewers: Drizzle with honey or agave nectar instead of balsamic glaze for a sweeter version.
Enjoy making and sharing these delightful Watermelon and Cucumber Skewers! They are a true taste of summer in every bite.
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Watermelon and Cucumber Skewers
Ingredients
- Watermelon: Choose a seedless watermelon for ease, or remove seeds from a seeded variety. You’ll need about half of a medium-sized watermelon, cubed into bite-sized pieces. Watermelon provides sweetness and hydration.
- Cucumber: English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work best due to their thin skin and fewer seeds. You’ll need 2-3 cucumbers, sliced into thick rounds or half-moons, depending on size, to match the watermelon pieces. Cucumber adds a refreshing coolness and crunch.
- Fresh Mint: A small bunch of fresh mint leaves. Mint provides a burst of aromatic freshness and complements both watermelon and cucumber beautifully.
- Feta Cheese (Optional): About 4 ounces of feta cheese, crumbled or cubed. Feta adds a salty and tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the watermelon and the coolness of the cucumber. For a vegan option, omit the feta or consider using a plant-based feta alternative.
- Balsamic Glaze (Optional): A drizzle of balsamic glaze for added sweetness and tang. Balsamic glaze enhances the flavors and adds a touch of sophistication. Alternatively, you can use a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a brighter flavor.
- Olive Oil (Optional): A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Olive oil adds richness and a subtle peppery note.
- Sea Salt and Black Pepper (Optional): A pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors and create a balanced taste profile.
Instructions
- Prepare the Watermelon: Begin by carefully washing your watermelon under cool running water. Using a sharp knife, cut the watermelon in half. Then, cut one half into slices, and remove the rind. Cut the watermelon flesh into approximately 1-inch cubes. Aim for pieces that are easy to thread onto skewers and comfortable to eat in one or two bites. If using a seeded watermelon, make sure to remove as many seeds as possible while cubing. Place the watermelon cubes in a bowl.
- Prepare the Cucumber: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. If using English cucumbers, there’s no need to peel them. For regular cucumbers, you might prefer to peel them partially or fully depending on your preference. Slice the cucumbers into rounds that are about the same thickness as your watermelon cubes, around ½ inch to ¾ inch thick. If the cucumber rounds are large, you can cut them in half or quarters to create half-moon or smaller triangle shapes that are similar in size to the watermelon cubes. Place the cucumber slices in a separate bowl.
- Prepare the Mint: Wash the fresh mint leaves and gently pat them dry with a paper towel. You can leave the mint leaves whole or tear larger leaves into smaller pieces, depending on your preference and the size of your skewers. Set the mint aside.
- Prepare the Feta (Optional): If using feta cheese, crumble it if you have a block or cut pre-crumbled feta into smaller, more manageable pieces. If you are using cubed feta, ensure the cubes are roughly the same size as the watermelon and cucumber pieces for easy skewering and visual appeal. Keep the feta ready in a small bowl.
- Assemble the Skewers: Now comes the fun part – assembling the skewers! Take your skewers (wooden or metal skewers will work). If using wooden skewers, it’s a good idea to soak them in water for about 30 minutes prior to assembly to prevent them from burning if you plan to briefly grill or broil the skewers, or simply to prevent them from splintering. Start threading the ingredients onto the skewers in an alternating pattern. A suggested pattern is: watermelon, cucumber, mint leaf, and repeat. You can add feta cheese to this pattern as well, perhaps placing a small piece of feta between the watermelon and cucumber, or after a mint leaf. Feel free to experiment with different patterns to create visually appealing skewers. You can make them as simple as watermelon and cucumber only, or more elaborate by adding mint and feta.
- Arrange and Drizzle (Optional): Once all the skewers are assembled, arrange them on a serving platter. If you are using balsamic glaze, drizzle it lightly over the skewers. Be careful not to over-drizzle, as balsamic glaze can be quite strong in flavor. A light drizzle adds a touch of sweetness and tang. If you prefer a brighter, fresher flavor, you can squeeze a bit of fresh lime juice over the skewers instead of balsamic glaze. For added richness, you can also lightly drizzle with high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
- Season (Optional): For a final touch, you can sprinkle a very tiny pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper over the skewers. This might seem unusual for a fruit-based skewer, but a touch of salt and pepper enhances the sweetness of the watermelon and the freshness of the cucumber, creating a more balanced and flavorful bite. Be very careful not to over-salt.
- Chill and Serve: For the best flavor and refreshment, chill the assembled skewers in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the skewers are perfectly cool and refreshing, especially on a hot day. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 7g
