Watermelon With Fennel Salt Recipes

SHAVED CUCUMBER, FENNEL, AND WATERMELON SALAD

Steps:

• Using a mandoline, slice cucumbers lengthwise into paper-thin slices; slice fennel bulb crosswise into paper-thin slices. Combine cucumbers and fennel in a large serving bowl. Add watermelon, fennel fronds, lemon juice, and oil. Season with salt and pepper; toss to combine. Using a vegetable peeler, shave ricotta salata over salad, and serve.

FENNEL-SCENTED WATERMELON COOLER

Steps:

• Toast the fennel seeds in a small skillet over medium heat, shaking the skillet, until the seeds are fragrant and a shade darker, about 2 minutes. Add the sugar and 3/4 cup water and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, to dissolve the sugar, and until the mixture is reduced by about 1/2, about 3 minutes. Remove from the heat and steep 10 minutes.
• In a blender or food processor and working in batches, puree the watermelon with the fennel syrup, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt, transferring the batches to a pitcher as blended. Stir well to combine. Serve the cooler in a glass over ice and garnish with a lemon wedge.

WATERMELON WITH FENNEL AND SALT

Steps:

• Heat a dry small heavy skillet over moderately low heat until hot, about 3 minutes. Add the fennel seeds to the skillet and toast, stirring constantly until lightly browned, 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer the seeds to a work surface and cool 10 minutes.
• Coarsely crush the seeds using a mortar and pestle.
• Stir together the fennel seeds and the salt and sprinkle over watermelon.
• Serve with lime wedges.

WATERMELON, RADISH AND AVOCADO SALAD

Steps:

• Place the watermelon, radishes and shallots in a large serving bowl. In a glass measuring cup or small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, salt and black pepper.
• Just before serving, pour half of the dressing over the watermelon, radishes and shallots, and toss well. Add the arugula, the avocado and the rest of the dressing, and toss gently. Top with the fresh mint or basil and ricotta salata, if using. Season with more salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.