Name: Watermelon Fries with Coconut Lime Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 fresh seedless watermelon; 1 cup coconut cream or full-fat coconut milk (chilled); 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice; 1 teaspoon lime zest; 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional); Pinch of salt

A refreshing and vibrant twist on a summer classic, these Watermelon Fries with Coconut Lime Dip are the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and creamy. I like how this no-cook treat comes together in minutes and delivers both flavor and fun presentation. With fresh watermelon cut into fry-like sticks and paired with a tropical dip, it’s an ideal snack or party appetizer that always gets people talking. Watermelon Fries with Coconut Lime Dip

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love that this recipe is incredibly simple and uses only a few ingredients. It’s naturally sweet, healthy, dairy-free, and vegan, making it great for almost any diet. The coconut lime dip brings a burst of zesty creaminess that complements the crisp, juicy watermelon perfectly. I often serve this at barbecues or picnics—it’s light, refreshing, and something a little unexpected.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh seedless watermelon
Coconut cream or full-fat coconut milk (chilled)
Fresh lime juice
Lime zest
Maple syrup or honey (optional for added sweetness)
Pinch of salt

directions

I start by slicing the watermelon into thick rectangular slices, then cut those into fry-shaped sticks about ½ inch thick.
To make the dip, I scoop the solid part of the chilled coconut cream into a bowl.
I add lime juice, lime zest, and a little maple syrup or honey for sweetness.
I whisk it until smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, I splash in a bit of coconut water or more lime juice.
I serve the watermelon fries chilled on a platter with the dip in a small bowl on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
No cooking required.

Variations

Sometimes I like to sprinkle Tajín or a pinch of chili powder over the watermelon for a spicy-sweet combo. For the dip, I might add a bit of vanilla extract or swap lime with lemon for a slightly different flavor. I also occasionally roll the watermelon sticks in shredded coconut before serving for a fun texture twist.

storage/reheating

I store leftover watermelon fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The dip stays good in the fridge for up to 3 days. I always stir the dip before serving again, as it may separate slightly. These are best served chilled, so I don’t recommend reheating.

FAQs

What kind of watermelon works best for this recipe?

I always use seedless watermelon so I don’t have to worry about removing seeds. A ripe, firm watermelon is ideal for easy slicing and best texture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I often prep the dip a day in advance and cut the watermelon a few hours before serving. I keep everything chilled until it’s time to serve.

Is there a substitute for coconut cream in the dip?

If I want a non-coconut version, I use Greek yogurt or a plant-based yogurt alternative. It changes the flavor but still works well with lime.

Can I freeze the watermelon fries?

I don’t recommend freezing them because the texture becomes mushy once thawed. Fresh is definitely best in this case.

What else can I dip in the coconut lime dip?

I’ve tried this dip with other fruits like strawberries, mango, and pineapple—it pairs beautifully with all of them.

Conclusion

These Watermelon Fries with Coconut Lime Dip are a go-to treat for me during the warmer months. They’re colorful, healthy, and easy to throw together on a whim. Whether I’m entertaining or just craving a cool snack, this combo always hits the spot.