Watermelon Poke Bowl

Name: Watermelon Poke Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups watermelon, cubed; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 2 cups cooked sushi rice; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 cucumber, sliced; 1/2 cup edamame; 2 tablespoons pickled ginger; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 2 green onions, chopped

🕒 Prep: 20 min

🔥 Cook:

🍽 Serves: 4

★★★★★

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This Watermelon Poke Bowl is a refreshing twist on the traditional poke bowl, perfect for summer days when you want something light yet satisfying. It's a colorful blend of sweet and savory flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and is surprisingly easy to prepare.

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Ingredients for Watermelon Poke Bowl

Watermelon is the star of this dish, providing a sweet and juicy contrast to the savory marinade. Soy sauce adds depth and umami, while sesame oil brings a rich, nutty flavor. Rice vinegar gives a tangy punch, balancing the sweetness of the watermelon. A hint of grated ginger introduces a spicy warmth that ties everything together. The sushi rice serves as a neutral base, allowing the flavors of the toppings to shine. Avocado adds a creamy texture, while cucumber and edamame offer crunch and protein. Pickled ginger provides a zesty kick, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions adds a final touch of flavor and color.

Tips & Tricks

If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of sriracha to the marinade.
Use a melon baller for the watermelon if you want a more polished look.
Ensure your avocado is ripe but firm to maintain its shape in the bowl.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a light, crisp white wine or a chilled sake. For a more filling meal, serve it alongside some seaweed salad or crispy tempura vegetables. If you're hosting, consider setting up a poke bowl bar and let guests customize their own bowls with additional toppings like nori strips, wasabi peas, or julienned carrots.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?: You can prepare the components in advance, but it's best to assemble the bowl just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
What can I use instead of sushi rice?: Jasmine or basmati rice can be used as an alternative, though the texture and flavor will be slightly different.
Is there a substitute for edamame?: Green peas or shelled fava beans work well if you're looking for a different type of protein.

Watermelon Poke Bowl Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preparing your marinade. In a large bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and grated ginger. Once combined, add the watermelon cubes to the bowl and gently toss them until they're evenly coated with the marinade. Let the watermelon sit for at least 15 minutes to soak up all those flavors.

While the watermelon is marinating, cook your sushi rice according to the package instructions. It's important to let the rice cool slightly before assembling the bowl so it doesn’t wilt your fresh ingredients.

Now, grab a serving bowl and start layering. Begin with a generous scoop of sushi rice as your base. On top of the rice, arrange the marinated watermelon, avocado slices, cucumber slices, edamame, and pickled ginger. Aim for a balanced distribution so every bite is a perfect mix of flavors.

For the finishing touch, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the top. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's texture and flavor. Serve immediately and dig in!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to make with minimal cooking involved.
A refreshing and healthy meal that's perfect for warm weather.
Combines sweet, savory, and umami flavors in a fun and colorful dish.
Great for meal prepping or serving at a casual get-together.

Ingredients

3 cups watermelon, cubed

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 teaspoon grated ginger

2 cups cooked sushi rice

1 avocado, sliced

1 cucumber, sliced

1/2 cup edamame

2 tablespoons pickled ginger

1 tablespoon sesame seeds

2 green onions, chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and grated ginger. Add watermelon cubes and toss to coat evenly. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.

2. Prepare sushi rice according to package instructions. Set aside to cool slightly.

3. In a serving bowl, layer sushi rice, marinated watermelon, avocado, cucumber, edamame, and pickled ginger.