Watermelon "Tuna" Tacos (Vegan)

April 28, 2021
A couple of years ago, poke bowls became super popular, and it wasn’t long before a vegan version followed shortly behind. By cutting watermelon up into bite-sized chunks and leaving them to marinate, the fruit is transformed into a deceivingly realistic tasting “tuna.” Because watermelon is pretty bland to begin with, it easily absorbs and takes on the flavor of whatever you soak it in.

Instead of making a poke bowl, I decided to use the “tuna” to make fish tacos. These are stuffed full of fresh veggies that would generally come in a poke bowl and make a refreshing lunch on a warm day. I didn’t feel the need to use a dressing on this because it was so flavorful and a squeeze of lime did the job but if you would prefer to use one, I recommend a Sriracha mayo or cilantro vinaigrette.
vegan tuna tacos on a blue plate

Watermelon “Tuna” Tacos (Vegan)

utensils YIELDS 6 tacos
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  • for the marinade:
  • 3 tbsp liquid aminos
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp chili flakes
  • 1 tbsp nori seaweed
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
  • 1/2 tbsp ginger, minced
  • 1/2 tbsp garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp chopped scallions
  • 2 cups watermelon chunks
  • for the tacos:
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, diced
  • 1 jalapeno, minced
  • handful carrots, julienned
  • handful purple cabbage, chopped
  • handful fresh cilantro
  • 1 lime, juice only
  • 6 flour tortillas
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Directions

1. Add marinade ingredients to a bowl and mix well. Add watermelon chunks and coat and let sit for about an hour to soak up the flavor.

2. Add the diced cucumber, onion, and jalapeño to a small bowl and mix together to make a sort of salsa. Set aside until assembly.

3. Layer the tortillas with the cabbage, salsa mix, carrots, and watermelon.

4. Top with fresh cilantro and lime juice.

Also by Lauren: Black Bean Lime Stuffed Plantains

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Photo: Lauren Sacerdote


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Lauren is a homebody who likes to spend time with her cat, explore new ideas in the kitchen, relax in the sun with a good book, and promote healthy living to friends and family.

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