I’ve never thought about how much a splash of salt can change the game in fresh fruit salads, but here we are. This isn’t just throwing some diced peaches and watermelon together. It’s about catching that moment when those fruits sit in a little sprinkle of flaky sea salt, and suddenly the sweetness isn’t just sweet anymore. It’s complex. Juicy, salty, with a hint of smoky basil that somehow makes the watermelon taste like it’s been kissed by summer itself. I made this with no plans, just me wandering through the kitchen, looking for something light to call lunch on a random Tuesday. Turns out, this salad isn’t just for hot days, but it’s what you need when the fridge’s produce drawer overflows, and you’re too lazy to cook. It’s real, it’s simple, and yeah, maybe a little weird—sometimes those are the best things you eat.

Salted Fruit Salad with Basil
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the fruits: Use a chef's knife and cutting board to dice the peaches into bite-sized pieces and cut the watermelon into chunks. Place both into a large mixing bowl.2 cups diced peaches, 2 cups watermelon chunks
- Sprinkle the measured flaky sea salt evenly over the fruit mixture. Gently toss with a spatula or spoons to combine, allowing the salt to start enhancing the natural sweetness.1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
- Add the torn or chopped fresh basil leaves to the bowl. Lightly toss again to evenly distribute the herbs and release their aromatic oils.4 fresh basil leaves basil leaves
- Let the salad sit at room temperature for 5 minutes for the flavors to meld. Observe the fruits glistening with juice and the basil leaves infusing aroma into the mixture.
- Transfer the salad onto a serving plate or bowl. Optionally, garnish with a few additional basil leaves before serving for visual appeal.
Plus, it makes your kitchen smell like a fresh produce aisle. Not bad, right? I’m pretty sure I’ll be making this again, probably with extra basil and a squeeze of lime. Because sometimes, the simplest things surprise you, and honestly, I’m still surprised I didn’t think of it sooner.