Description
These refreshing watermelon poke bowls offer a bright, plant-based twist on the traditional poke. Juicy watermelon cubes are marinated in a savory sesame-soy dressing, then arranged over a bed of sushi or jasmine rice along with fresh avocado, cucumber, edamame, and vibrant toppings like green onions, sesame seeds, and nori for a nutritious, colorful meal ideal for lunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups seedless watermelon, cut into cubes
- 2 cups cooked sushi or jasmine rice
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup shelled edamame
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 sheet nori, thinly sliced
Marinade
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tsp lime juice
Instructions
- Prepare the watermelon: Cut the watermelon into small cubes and gently pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Mix the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, grated fresh ginger, and lime juice until well combined.
- Marinate the watermelon: Add the cubed watermelon to the marinade and gently toss to coat all pieces evenly.
- Let it rest: Allow the watermelon to marinate for 10–15 minutes, letting the flavors infuse without making the watermelon watery.
- Assemble the bowls: Divide the cooked sushi or jasmine rice evenly between two serving bowls.
- Add toppings: Arrange the marinated watermelon, sliced avocado, diced cucumber, and shelled edamame over the rice in each bowl.
- Finish with garnishes: Sprinkle sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and thin strips of nori on top.
- Serve: Drizzle any remaining marinade over the bowls and serve immediately chilled for a refreshing meal.
Notes
- Do not marinate the watermelon for too long to prevent it from becoming watery and losing its texture.
- For additional color and crunch, consider adding mango, radishes, or shredded carrots as toppings.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Hawaiian-inspired, Asian-inspired