This Watermelon Fruit Salad with Mango and Blueberries is an elevated version of the cut up fruit dish always found at Chinese family potlucks. Growing up in an Asian household, cut up fruit was always the dessert of choice after dinner. It was especially preferred amongst the older adults.

My dietitian-approved version is a healthy dessert recipe that uses in-season summer fruits that are tasty, fresh and nutritious. A simple tangy and savory dressing is made with lime juice, honey or maple syrup and sea salt to really bring out the flavors! Fresh mint is used as a garnish and adds a freshness to the overall dish. Bring this to your next potluck or event instead of the basic chopped up fruit dish, it will become the new dessert favorite!

Ingredients

Watermelon – A summer favorite, I love watermelon as a registered dietitian also because of its nutrient profile. Most notably rich in lycopene, this antioxidant is known for heart health and protection against certain types of cancers. Watermelon also contains l-citrulline, an amino acid that may help improve exercise and reduce muscle soreness after a workout.

It’s also about 90% water and contains other notable vitamins including vitamins A and C.

Mango – For this particular recipe I used Haden mango, but you are welcome to use Ataulfo mango. Haden mango is a great source of fiber, vitamin A and vitamin C.

Blueberries – Often known as a nutrient-dense superfood. Blueberries are known for their high concentration of anthocyanin antioxidants which give them that beautiful blue color. Other notable nutrients include fiber, vitamins C and K and manganese.

Lime – Lime adds a delicious tartness to the fruit salad, giving it greater dimension.

Maple syrup or honey – You need a liquid sweetener for this salad and either maple syrup or honey work. Use maple syrup for a vegan version.

Sea salt – Adding sea salt to a fruit salad really brings out the flavors.

Mint – Mint is optional, but it adds a vibrant freshness to the salad and also makes it look pretty.

How to Make Watermelon Fruit Salad with Mango and Blueberries: Step by Step Instructions with Photos

Watermelon Fruit Salad with Mango and Blueberries Recipe Tips and Tricks

• The watermelon pieces should be cut into similar, bite-sized pieces. Same with the mango.

• Drain the watermelon in a colander before adding it to the bowl. Or you can spin it in a salad spinner to reduce the excess watermelon juice.

• Dress the fruit salad right before serving. This will help prevent it from getting too soggy.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? 

Yes, you can. Prepare the fruit and make the dressing ahead of time. Chill the fruit in the at least 1-2 hours before serving. When it’s time to serve, add the dressing to the fruit and toss together. Top with fresh mint leaves.

Healthy Eating Tips from a Registered Dietitian/Nutrition Expert

Why fruit salad for dessert?

Compared to other desserts, cake or pie – this one is much lower in calories, added sugar and it provides nutritional benefits from the different fruit. Chinese people love fruit for dessert, but this one is made more satisfying with the dressing and the mint. A light fruit dessert is perfect for the summer season!

Watermelon Fruit Salad with Mango and Blueberries

This Watermelon Fruit Salad with Mango and Blueberries is fresh summer fruit elevated with a tangy and savory dressing made of lime juice, honey and sea salt. Topped with fresh mint, it’s the perfect healthy dessert to take to your next summer barbecue!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Dessert, Salad

Cuisine American, Asian

Servings 8

Ingredients

  

For the Salad

• 4 cups chopped watermelon
• 3 cups chopped mango about 2 large mangos
• 2 cups blueberries, rinsed 1 pint / 551 mL

For the Dressing

• Juice of one lime
• 1 Tbsp honey or maple syrup
• sea salt
• Chopped fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

 

• Assemble Your Salad: In a large bowl, combine watermelon, mango and blueberries.
• Make Your Dressing: In a small bowl, juice lime, add honey or maple syrup and sea salt. Mix together.
• Add Your Dressing: Drizzle the dressing on the fruit and mix together.
• Garnish with Fresh Mint: Add mint to the salad.

Video

Keyword blueberry, mango, watermelon

Did you make this recipe? Post your recipe and tag @michellejaelin to share your creation! And don’t forget to follow along on Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube.