These spicy watermelon fries are a fun and refreshing twist on snacking! Cut into sticks and sprinkled with a little chili spice, they bring a cool heat that’s perfect for summer.
The creamy coconut lime dip is like sunshine on a plate! I love how the cool dip balances the heat, making each bite extra special. Perfect for those sunny days when you need a tasty treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: A seedless watermelon is easy to work with, perfect for these fries. If watermelon isn’t available, you can use cantaloupe or honeydew, but they won’t have quite the same texture.
Chili Powder: Adjust the spice level by using more or less chili powder. You can substitute with cayenne for more heat or smoked paprika if you like a deeper flavor. I often mix chili powder with a bit of lime zest for added zing!
Coconut Yogurt: If you’re dairy-free, coconut yogurt is awesome. You can also use regular yogurt if you don’t have dietary restrictions. Greek yogurt adds a nice creaminess, but adjust sweetness if needed.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is best for that vibrant flavor, but bottled juice works in a pinch. Squeeze a little extra if you like a tart kick in the dip!
How Do I Cut Watermelon for Fries Without Making a Mess?
Cutting watermelon can be tricky! Here’s a simple way to get perfect watermelon fries without the mess:
- Start by choosing a small, firm watermelon. It will be easier to handle.
- Slice off both ends of the watermelon to create a stable base.
- Stand it upright and carefully slice downward to remove the rind in sections.
- Cut the flesh into thick slices, then cut those slices into fry-shaped sticks.
- Pat the fries dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick better.
This method makes it easy and keeps your cutting board clean!
Spicy Watermelon Fries with Creamy Coconut Lime Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Watermelon Fries:
- 1 small seedless watermelon, cut into fry-shaped sticks
- 1 to 2 teaspoons chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Creamy Coconut Lime Dip:
- 1/2 cup coconut yogurt (unsweetened, plain)
- 2 tablespoons coconut cream (or thick part of coconut milk)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for slight sweetness)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful snack will take about 15 minutes to prepare. Perfect for a quick bite or a refreshing appetizer at your summer gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Watermelon Fries:
Start by cutting the watermelon into thick sticks that look like fries. Aim for pieces about 1/2 inch wide and 3 to 4 inches long. Once cut, gently pat them dry with paper towels to soak up any excess juice. This will help the seasoning stick better!
2. Season the Fries:
In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this spice mix evenly over the watermelon fries, pressing lightly as you go to make sure it sticks well.
3. Make the Coconut Lime Dip:
In another small bowl, whisk together the coconut yogurt, coconut cream, lime juice, lime zest, honey (or maple syrup if using), and a pinch of salt until it’s smooth and creamy. Take a moment to taste—it’s all about your preference, so you can adjust the lime juice or sweetness according to your liking!
4. Serve:
Arrange your spicy watermelon fries neatly on a serving platter. Pour the creamy coconut lime dip into a small bowl and place it next to the fries. For a little extra pizzazz, sprinkle a bit of lime zest on top of the dip!
Now, just dip each watermelon fry into the creamy coconut lime dip and enjoy the refreshing flavors!
This vibrant and delicious snack combines the juicy sweetness of watermelon with a spicy kick, all while being perfectly balanced by the creamy coconut lime dip. It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Yogurt for the Dip?
Absolutely! If you prefer a non-dairy option, coconut yogurt is great. However, you can also use regular plain yogurt or Greek yogurt if dairy isn’t a concern. Just adjust the sweetness as needed since some yogurts can be more tangy.
How Do I Store Leftover Watermelon Fries and Dip?
Store any leftover watermelon fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. They may lose some crispness. The creamy coconut lime dip can also be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving again!
Can I Make the Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! The coconut lime dip can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors may even deepen overnight, adding extra deliciousness!
What’s a Good Alternative to Chili Powder for a Milder Flavor?
If you want a milder flavor, you can use paprika or even ground cumin for a different but delightful taste. Adjust the amount according to your preference, and feel free to omit it entirely if you prefer no spice!
