These easy Watermelon Sticks are such a fun and delicious snack that is perfect for the summertime! They’re gluten-free, vegan, and take little to no time to make!
Are you as obsessed with watermelon as I am? I’ve already brought you a watermelon CAKE so today I thought I would whip up something equally fun and playful with watermelon- watermelon sticks. They’re just like French fries but super healthy. No, you should never have to REPLACE real fries with watermelon fries, but this is great on a hot summer day.
The star of this recipe is Tajin, which is a seasoning blend made of dehydrated lime, chiles, and salt. It originated in Mexico and has quickly gained popularity in North America. Tajin is often paired with fruit or veggies like cucumber, mango, or in our case, watermelon!
Table of contents
Why This Recipe Works
Other than being the perfect poolside or BBQ recipe during the summer, here are more reasons you’ll love this watermelon sticks recipe.
- Refreshing snack
- Naturally gluten-free
- Vegan friendly
- Easy to make
- Kid friendly
Key Ingredients
Watermelon – Watermelon is, of course, the star of the show in this recipe! I break down everything you need to know about how to choose a watermelon down below.
Tajin Seasoning – Tajin is a Mexican seasoning made of of very simple ingredients including salt, chili, and lime. Don’t have tajin seasoning? No problem. You can totally swap in salt, chili powder, and lime zest if you already have it on hand. You can also easily find it online.
Coconut Yogurt – I use a non-dairy coconut yogurt to make this recipe vegan. But you can absolutely try out a dairy coconut flavoured yogurt as well.
Lime – Lime zest and juice totally make this recipe come alive and gives it that fresh summer flavour.
Coconut Sugar – This gives the coconut lime dip some extra sweetness to the watermelon sticks but it’s optional if you find your watermelon is sweet enough.
How to Make This Recipe
Step 1: In a bowl, combine yogurt, lime juice and zest and coconut sugar. Set aside.
Step 2: On a plate, scatter watermelon sticks and sprinkle Tajin classic seasoning.
Expert Tips
The key to choosing a good watermelon for making watermelon fries is to look for:
- A watermelon that feels heavy for its size (regardless of if it’s big or small).
- A yellow splotch on one side.
- A deep hollow sound when tapped.
To cut the watermelon into sticks, you can simply slice the watermelon into rounds, cut off the rind, and then cut the watermelon into sticks the size of fries.
The easiest way to cut a watermelon is by using a serrated knife like a bread knife!
Recipe FAQs
I’d suggest cutting up the watermelon into strips a few days in advance but I recommend adding the seasoning prior to serving. Cut watermelon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Yes! There is a difference. For this recipe, I recommend using dairy-free yogurt made with a coconut base. However, if you don’t have that available you cant totally experiment with other yogurts as well.
If you don’t have Tajin seasoning, you can make your own by combining 1/2 tsp of salt, 1/4 tsp of chili powder, and lime zest to taste. You can also improvise using any spicy seasoning you have on hand.
For sure! I have never met a toddler who doesn’t love to dip their food and my son is no exception. However, If you are serving this to your kiddo I would suggest holding back on the spice/Tajin seasoning.
More Recipes You Might Like
If you want some more fun summer recipes like this watermelon sticks recipe, here are some of my favourite healthy summer appetizers
- Honeydew Melon Fries with Lemon Poppyseed Cherry Dip
- Pineapple Chocolate Donuts with Spicy Salty Crust
- Grilled Sweet Potatoes with Avocado Lime Sauce
So loves, tell me – have you made watermelon sticks? Leave me a comment below with your thoughts!
Watermelon Sticks with Coconut Lime Dip (Healthy Summer Snack)
Ingredients
- 1 watermelon rind removed and cut into long fry-like shapes
- 2 tsp Tajin Classic Seasoning
Dip:
- 1 cup coconut yogurt
- Zest and juice of 1 lime
- 1 tbsp coconut sugar or to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine yogurt, lime juice and zest and coconut sugar. Set aside.
- On a plate, scatter watermelon fries and sprinkle Tajin classic seasoning.
- Serve with dip and enjoy!
Video
Notes
- A watermelon that feels heavy for its size (regardless of if it’s big or small).
- A yellow splotch on one side.
- A deep hollow sound when tapped.
Nutrition
Updated on May 19th, 2023
Abbey Sharp is a Registered Dietitian (RD), regulated by the Ontario College of Dietitians. She is a mom, YouTuber, Blogger, award winning cookbook author, media coach specializing in food and nutrition influencers, and a frequent contributor to national publications like Healthline and on national broadcast TV shows.
Rosanne says
I found coconut yogurt, but it comes in “plain” and “vanilla” flavors. Which do I use?
Abbey Sharp says
I use plain but either can work.
Vanessa says
Thanks for sharing! How far ahead of time can I make it?
Suzanne says
This looks so good! What a fun summer treat to make for kids!