Mexican Fruit Salad With Tajin Recipe

This vibrant fruit salad is my go-to for refreshing, healthy indulgence; it’s like a mini-vacation in a bowl with its perfect mix of sweet and spicy flavors. The pop of Tajin combined with the juiciness of fresh fruit makes for an Instagram-worthy dish that’s just as delicious as it is eye-catching!

The flavors that make Mexico’s cuisine so vibrant come together in this refreshingly simple fruit salad. Watermelon (my most favorite fruit of all), pineapple, and mango—served solo or in combination—are pure tropical delight.

When biting into these juicy fruits, I feel like I’m biting into summer. Cucumbers and jicama, with their watery crunch, are the perfect counterpoint—and, really, no fruit salad is complete without a squeeze of lime juice and a dusting of Tajín.

This is your next verano in a bowl.

Ingredients

Watermelon: Perfect for summertime, it is such a refreshing fruit.

Not only does it cool you off, but it is also packed with nutrients, most notably that wonderful vitamin C.

Pineapple: Tart and intense with bromelain for digestive and immune system support.

Mango: Tropical and juicy, it’s rich in vitamins A and C; contributes sweetness and a vibrant hue.

Cucumber: Having a texture that is crisp yet tender, it is mild and refreshing, with a slight sweetness that balances its delicate, watery nature.

The root vegetable that is jicama has a lovely, mild sweetness and a wonderful crunch.

It contains lots of fiber and vitamin C.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 cups watermelon, diced
• 2 cups pineapple, diced
• 2 cups mango, diced
• 2 cups cucumber, diced
• 1 cup jicama, diced
• 2 limes, juiced
• 1 tablespoon Tajin seasoning
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced watermelon, pineapple, mango, cucumber, and jicama.

2. Juice the two limes over the fruit and vegetables, making sure to get it on all of them and not just in one or two spots.

3. Add the tablespoon of Tajin seasoning onto the mixture and gently toss it all together, so that the seasoning coats every piece as evenly as it can.

4. If you want, you can drizzle the tablespoon of honey over the salad to make it extra sweet, but I recommend it just as it is—tossed together and ready to receive your grateful fork.

5. Plastic wrap should be used to cover the bowl, and then refrigerate it for a duration of 30 minutes. This allows for the melding of flavors to take place.

6. Prior to serving, provide the amalgamation with a last, gentle toss to ensure the ingredients are well combined.

7. If necessary, taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more Tajín or lime juice to suit your taste.

8. Move the salad to a stunning serving bowl or platter.

9. If you are using mint, garnish with fresh leaves for a burst of color and fresh flavor.

10. Chill the Mexican fruit salad and serve it with lime wedges for added zest, if desired.

Equipment Needed

1. Large mixing bowl
2. Knife
3. Cutting board
4. Citrus juicer or reamer
5. Measuring spoons
6. Mixing spoon or spatula
7. Plastic wrap
8. Serving bowl or platter

FAQ

• What is the main flavor of this fruit salad?The principal taste is a rejuvenating mix of sweet and sour, with a suggestion of spice that comes from the Tajin seasoning.
• Can I substitute the fruits in the recipe?Certainly! You can replace the tropical fruit with other fruits like papaya or cantaloupe, but the delicious harmony of flavors may change.
• Is honey necessary in this recipe?Optional is honey. It adds a touch of sweetness, but the salad is delicious without it, too.
• How long does this fruit salad last?Freshness is the hallmark of optimal consumption, which is why this dish is best enjoyed as near to finishing as possible. If storage is necessary, then it should be placed in as airtight a container as possible and then in the refrigerator, where it will last about 2 days.
• What is Tajin seasoning made of?A Mexican seasoning, Tajin is composed mainly of chili peppers, lime, and salt, which results in a blend that is both spicy and citrusy.
• Can this salad be made ahead of time?It is possible to prepare it a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to add lime juice and Tajin right before serving to keep it fresh.
• How can I make the salad spicier?Add more Tajin or a pinch of cayenne pepper to ramp up the heat.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutes for Watermelon: Cantaloupe or papaya can be used, but their flavor is much different from that of watermelon.
Pineapple: For a sweeter taste, use fresh or canned peaches.
Mango: For a zesty alternative, use kiwi.
Cucumber: Substitute zucchini for a similar texture.
Jicama: An acceptable alternative is apple, which supplies a satisfying crunch and is sweet.
Lemons: If limes are not available, you can substitute lemon juice.

Pro Tips

1. Chill the Ingredients Before mixing your salad, chill the diced fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator. This ensures that your salad remains refreshingly cool and enhances the flavor melding process.

2. Uniform Sizing Dice the watermelon, pineapple, mango, cucumber, and jicama to uniform sizes. This helps in even distribution of flavors and ensures a consistent texture in every bite.

3. Ripe Mango Make sure your mango is ripe but not overripe. A ripe mango adds natural sweetness and a creamy texture that complements the crunch of the cucumber and jicama.

4. Layering Technique When juicing the limes, start by adding half of the juice first, then toss the salad. Add the remaining lime juice and toss again. This layering ensures all fruit and vegetable pieces have contact with lime juice at some point, enhancing flavor uniformity.

5. Fresh Mint Use only fresh mint leaves for garnish. Gently slap the mint leaves between your hands before garnishing to release their essential oils, intensifying their aroma and flavor in your salad.