Navajo melon salad with chili and lime
Navajo melon salad is a refreshing, traditional dish from the Navajo Nation, typically featuring diced watermelon or other melons tossed with fresh lime juice, chili powder, and sometimes a pinch of salt. It's a simple, vibrant preparation that highlights the natural sweetness of the melon with a zesty, spicy kick.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is naturally low in fat and protein but provides quick energy from carbohydrates, primarily from the melon's natural sugars. It's an excellent source of hydration and key electrolytes like potassium and magnesium, with a typical serving containing around 60-80 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 70 kcal |
| Protein | 1.5 g |
| Carbs | 17 g |
| Fat | 0.3 g |
| Fiber | 1.2 g |
| Sugar | 14 g |
| Sodium | 10 mg |
| Potassium | 320 mg |
| Vitamin C | 18 mg |
| Magnesium | 20 mg |
| Vitamin A | 850 IU |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.1 mg |
| Manganese | 0.1 mg |
| Iron | 0.4 mg |
| Calcium | 12 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, it reflects the Navajo people's adaptation to arid environments, using melons as a vital source of water and nutrients. Nutritionally, the combination of chili and lime not only enhances flavor but can also aid in the absorption of certain nutrients and aid digestion.
