Summer Maple-Lime-Watermelon Zoodle Bowls

These Summer Maple-Lime-Watermelon Zoodle Bowls pack a taste of sunshine in every bite.

Bright, refreshing, and just a little bit unexpected, these maple-lime-watermelon zoodle bowls evoke the essence of summer in every bite. You get tender zucchini noodles, sweet and juicy watermelon, smoky grilled corn, chewy edamame, creamy feta, and a burst of fresh basil and mint, all drizzled with a maple-lime dressing that ties the whole thing together. It’s a delightful medley of textures and flavors that comes together so perfectly, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been tossing random fridge leftovers into bowls more often.

And here’s the thing—this recipe wasn’t even supposed to exist. It started as a happy accident! I was having an “I need food right now; what do I have on hand?” moment, tossed a few leftovers together, and bam—I knew I had a hit on my hands. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent while remaining wonderfully light. It’s satisfying, nourishing, and exactly what your summer lunch rotation has been missing.

So, get ready to bust out some watermelon wizardry; these bowls are guaranteed to leave your taste buds doing a happy dance.

Are Summer Maple-Lime-Watermelon Zoodle Bowls Healthy?

These zoodle bowls are a superfood lover’s dream come true. The zucchini noodles are a source of vitamins C, A, and K, along with so many other vital nutrients (like folate, manganese, and potassium, to name a few). Watermelon packs in even more vitamin C, and given its high water content, it can help keep you hydrated, too. Edamame is rich in protein, iron, and calcium, while corn is rich in fiber and B vitamins. While there’s a splash of maple syrup in the dressing, this is an all-natural sweetener that beats out refined sugar on the glycemic index scale. All in all, this recipe is a rock star when it comes to being good for you.

Watermelon As A Culinary Wonder

Watermelon isn’t just something you grab for a quick snack or toss into a fruit salad. It’s a surprisingly versatile fruit that can elevate both sweet and savory dishes. Watermelon has a high water content and a light natural sweetness that make it pair well with many other foods. For example, it’s a beautifully refreshing contrast against the smoky grilled corn and creamy feta in this recipe, while complementing the equally refreshing crunch of the zoodles.

But don’t stop at just this dish! You can add watermelon to salsas, other salads, or even soup—it makes a lovely gazpacho when blended up with some cucumber, bell pepper, basil, and vinegar. Don’t be fooled by this fruit’s simplicity; it can actually hold its own as a sophisticated ingredient in a number of creative applications.

Serving Suggestions

You can enjoy your salad for lunch or dinner alongside an equally refreshing summer tipple. I’d recommend either a Bee’s Knees Cocktail or a Watermelon Mojito. If you’re not a big fan of a boozy libation, don’t worry! A thirst-quenching Limeade or Lemonade would pair perfectly, too.

Recipe