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If there’s one recipe that you NEED to try this summer, it’s this Viral Watermelon Sandwich. Don’t knock it until you try it; this sandwich replaces the bread with thick-cut slices of watermelon for a juicy summertime sandwich that is a little sweet, a little salty, and all-around delicious. My version is filled with thin slices of prosciutto, creamy burrata, and lots of fresh basil for the perfect balance of flavors.
Why You’ll Fall in-Love With This Watermelon Sandwich
Okay friends, I have a confession to make: when I first saw this Viral Watermelon Sandwich making its rounds on the internet, I was initially skeptical. While I am a huge fan of making sandwiches with ingredients other than bread (like a good romaine lettuce wrap!) the initial thought of watermelon replacing bread sounded… unconventional. And, to be honest: it IS! But, want to know a secret? It is unconventionally good.
The sweet, juicy watermelon pairs perfectly with the salty sandwich fillings for the ultimate summertime sandwich! Seriously, don’t knock it until you try it. The watermelon is sweet, crisp, and delicious, and makes the perfect vehicle for all of your favorite sandwich toppings.
My version of the Viral Watermelon Sandwich is filled with all of the ingredients that I love: prosciutto, burrata, fresh basil, pickles, and a little olive oil and balsamic drizzle. The result? A sandwich that is a little sweet, a little salty, a little crunchy, and a little creamy. Believe me when I say, it’s bursting with different flavors and textures! The only thing to note about this sandwich is, because of the water content of the watermelon, you’ll want to enjoy it right away. It’s best served when the watermelon is crisp, so you’ll get that juicy, crunchy bite!
And, if you’re looking for the perfect side dishes to accompany this sandwich, I love nothing more than pairing it alongside my No-Mayo Crispy Smashed Potato Tzatziki Salad or my Summer Citrus Salad for the ultimate summertime meal! Oh, and don’t forget to wash it all down with my Spicy Jalapeño Watermelon Margarita… after all, is there ever such thing as too much watermelon? Not in my book!
What You Need to Make This Bread-Free Sandwich
- 🍉 Watermelon: Instead of bread, the prosciutto, burrata, and fixings are cradled between two thick slices of juicy watermelon. The key is to get a whole watermelon and cut it into large, square slices.
- 🐖 Prosciutto: Prosciutto is a dried, thinly-sliced cured ham that is salty and delicious. It’s one of my favorite meats to enjoy in sandwiches, and this watermelon sandwich is no exception.
- 🧀 Burrata: A creamy ball of burrata pairs perfectly with the salty prosciutto and the sweet watermelon! You can also use regular fresh mozzarella cheese, if you prefer.
- 🥒 Pickles or Cornichons: In the video below, I used dill pickles – and while the pickles are delicious, I think cornichons are equally, if not even more so, delicious!
- 🥬 Fresh Basil: Crispy, fresh basil leaves pair perfectly with the flavors of this sandwich. Don’t skip this!
- 🧂 Olive Oil & Balsamic Glaze: A little drizzle of olive oil and balsamic glaze adds the perfect finishing touch to this sandwich!
How to Make This Easy Summertime Sandwich
To make this watermelon sandwich, start by preparing the watermelon. Slice the watermelon in half, then remove the rind and slice it into 2, 4×4 pieces, approximately 1 inch thick. If you are unsure of how to do this, refer to the video in the recipe card below.
Next, lay the slices of watermelon onto a cutting board. Top one half of the watermelon with the slices of prosciutto, layering and folding them as necessary to fit on top of the watermelon. Then, layer the pickles on top of the prosciutto, followed by the fresh basil and the burrata.
Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic on top of the sandwich. Finally, top with the remaining slice of watermelon. Slice the sandwich in half, then serve and enjoy!
Tips for Making This Sandwich 🎯
- 🔪 Use a sharp knife: Since this sandwich is held together by the watermelon, you’ll want to ensure that it’s properly sliced. And the best way to get those perfectly square slices? Use a sharp knife! I love these knives, personally, and find that they cut the watermelon perfectly!
- 🥙 Play around with different fillings: There are so many different ways to shake up the filling of this sandwich, for a unique and delicious twist! Swap out the burrata for another cheese, like a delicious brie, goat cheese or sharp cheddar, add in some perfectly-seasoned greens, or add in some marinated red onions! Feel free to get creative with this sandwich – the options are truly endless!
- 🍴Eat right away: Since the watermelon has such a high water content, this sandwich is best enjoyed right away – otherwise, the filling will get soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add other ingredients to this sandwich?
Absolutely! I love adding in some arugula, marinated red onions, or different types of cheese.
How thick should I cut the watermelon slices?
I recommend cutting the slices approximately 1 inch thick, so that they’re thick enough to hold the weight of the sandwich fillings. If the watermelon is cut too thin, it will break easier.
Can I use a different type of cheese or cured meat?
Yes! You can absolutely swap out the cheese or meat for any other options that you’d desire. Feel free to get creative with this sandwich!
What other variations of this sandwich can I make?
If you’re looking for a fun and delicious variation on this sandwich, I recommend turning it into a caprese sandwich… with a twist! The twist comes from omitting the prosciutto and pickles from this sandwich, and the tomato from the traditional Caprese recipe, and instead keeping it filled with the burrata, basil, olive oil, and balsamic. The watermelon adds the sweetness and mild acidity that the tomato would add to the Caprese, making it a delicious and refreshing summer sandwich.
If you make this recipe, please be sure to leave a review and rating below! To see more recipes and behind the scenes, follow along on Instagram, TikTok, and Youtube! I’m also now on Pinterest, so stop by and take a look at what’s new.
** Photography by Tanya Pilgrim
If there's one recipe that you NEED to try this summer, it's this Viral Watermelon Sandwich. Don't knock it until you try it; this sandwich replaces the bread with thick-cut slices of watermelon for a juicy summertime sandwich that is a little sweet, a little salty, and all-around delicious. My version is filled with thin slices of prosciutto, creamy burrata, and lots of fresh basil for the perfect balance of flavors.
Equipment
- 1 Sharp Knife this is essential for cutting the watermelon – I love this one!
- 1 Cutting Board this sandwich is messy, so I recommend preparing it on a cutting board!
Ingredients
- 2 4×4 Slices Watermelon cut into large, square slices, approximately 1 inch thick
- 3 Pieces Prosciutto folded
- 1 Ball Burrata
- 2 Dill Pickles or Cornichons chopped
- 1 Small Handful Fresh Basil
- 1 Teaspoon Olive Oil
- 1 Teaspoon Balsamic Glaze
Instructions
- To make this watermelon sandwich, start by preparing the watermelon. Slice the watermelon in half, then remove the rind and slice it into 2, 4×4 pieces, approximately 1 inch thick. If you are unsure of how to do this, refer to the video above!
- Next, lay the slices of watermelon onto a cutting board.
- Top one half of the watermelon with the slices of prosciutto, layering and folding them as necessary to fit on top of the watermelon.
- Then, layer the pickles on top of the prosciutto, followed by the fresh basil and the burrata.
- Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic on top of the sandwich.
- Finally, top with the remaining slice of watermelon. Slice the sandwich in half, then serve and enjoy
Did you make this recipe?
I’d love to see what you made – tag @kalejunkie
in your posts and I’ll re-share!
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