recipes

This Shakarkandi And Watermelon Salad Brings Freshness To Festive Feasts

Add a refreshing twist to your festive spread with this colourful, nutrient-packed salad of sweet potato, watermelon, and roasted walnuts—perfect for guilt-free indulgence this Diwali.

Contributed By

OT Staff

October 13, 2025

Shakarkandi Watermelon & Roasted Walnut Salad/Representative Image. Photo: Shutterstock

Shakarkandi Watermelon & Roasted Walnut Salad/Representative Image. Photo: Shutterstock

The festive season often brings with it indulgent sweets, rich gravies, and heavy meals—but balance is key to enjoying celebrations guilt-free. For those looking to add a fresh, nourishing twist to their festive menu, this Shakarkandi, Watermelon, and Roasted Walnut Salad is the perfect choice. Packed with seasonal produce and bursting with colour, it’s a light yet satisfying dish that blends nutrition with festive flair.

Shakarkandi, or sweet potato, is a winter superfood known for its high fibre, vitamin A, and antioxidant content. It supports gut health, boosts immunity, and keeps energy levels stable—making it an excellent ingredient to include in festive meals. Pairing it with juicy watermelon adds natural sweetness and hydration, while roasted walnuts provide a crunchy texture and a healthy dose of good fats. The mix of assorted exotic vegetables such as bell peppers and sweet corn adds a pop of colour and essential nutrients, making this salad as visually delightful as it is wholesome.

What ties it all together is a tangy balsamic vinaigrette that enhances the flavours without overpowering them. A drizzle of olive oil ensures heart-healthy richness, while a touch of pepper and salt keeps it balanced.

Perfect as a starter or a refreshing side dish, this salad is a celebration of mindful eating. It’s ideal for those looking to serve something light between festive feasts, offering a guilt-free indulgence that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a Diwali brunch or simply craving something fresh after days of sweets, this shakarkandi and watermelon salad is a vibrant, healthy addition to your festive table.

ALSO READ: Indian Dessert Recipe: Prepare Dhudi Godaan This Festive Season

Quick Info
Prep Time 15 min
Cook Time 10 min
Total Time 25 min
Servings 2
Difficulty easy
Ingredients
  • Watermelon - 80 g
  • Shakarkandi (sweet potato) - 30 g
  • Assorted exotic vegetables (bell pepper, sweet corn, etc.) - 30 g
  • Olive oil - 10 ml
  • Balsamic vinegar - 10 g
  • Roasted walnut - 15 g
Instructions
Step-1
Cut the watermelon into thick rings and set aside.
Step-2
Boil the shakarkandi until tender, then peel and cube it.
Step-3
Blanch the assorted exotic vegetables in hot water for a minute, then cool them immediately in ice water to retain colour and crunch.
Step-4
In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, pepper, sugar, honey, and finely chopped parsley to make the vinaigrette dressing.
Step-5
In a mixing bowl, combine the boiled shakarkandi, blanched vegetables, and roasted walnuts. Toss with the prepared vinaigrette until well coated.
Step-6
Arrange the watermelon rings on a serving plate.
Step-7
Place the salad mixture on top of each ring.
Step-8
Garnish with microgreens, edible flowers, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Step-9
Serve fresh and chilled for best flavour and texture.
Recipe
Prep Time 15 min
Cook Time 10 min
Total Time 25 min
Servings 2
Difficulty easy
Ingredients
  • Watermelon - 80 g
  • Shakarkandi (sweet potato) - 30 g
  • Assorted exotic vegetables (bell pepper, sweet corn, etc.) - 30 g
  • Olive oil - 10 ml
  • Balsamic vinegar - 10 g
  • Roasted walnut - 15 g
Instructions
Step-1
Cut the watermelon into thick rings and set aside.
Step-2
Boil the shakarkandi until tender, then peel and cube it.
Step-3
Blanch the assorted exotic vegetables in hot water for a minute, then cool them immediately in ice water to retain colour and crunch.
Step-4
In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, pepper, sugar, honey, and finely chopped parsley to make the vinaigrette dressing.
Step-5
In a mixing bowl, combine the boiled shakarkandi, blanched vegetables, and roasted walnuts. Toss with the prepared vinaigrette until well coated.
Step-6
Arrange the watermelon rings on a serving plate.
Step-7
Place the salad mixture on top of each ring.
Step-8
Garnish with microgreens, edible flowers, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Step-9
Serve fresh and chilled for best flavour and texture.
Note:
  • Double the ingredients when cooking for more people to ensure everyone gets a fluffy stack.
  • Swap out eggs for mashed bananas, yogurt, or flaxseed mix if you're vegetarian or allergic to eggs.
  • Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for extra soft and airy pancakes.
  • Let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking to get fluffier pancakes.
  • Cook on medium-low heat to avoid burning while ensuring even cooking.
  • Add vanilla extract or cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor.
  • Top with fresh fruits, nuts, or honey for a delicious and healthy twist.
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