What would be a good substitute for mint in this salad?

Watermelon and Cantaloupe Salad with Mint Vinaigrette Recipe courtesy Giada De Laurentiis


See this recipe on air Saturday Jul. 07 at 7:30 AM ET/PT.


1 bunch fresh mint, chopped


1/4 cup lemon juice, from about 1 lemon


1/4 cup simple syrup, recipe follows


1/8 teaspoon amaretto


2 cups watermelon balls, from about half a watermelon


2 cups cantaloupe balls, from about 1 cantaloupe


In a blender, combine mint, lemon juice, simple syrup, and amaretto. Blend until smooth.


In a large bowl, combine the watermelon and the cantaloupe. Add the vinaigrette and toss. Transfer to a serving bowl and serve.


Simple Syrup:


1/2 cup water


1 cup sugar


In a saucepan, combine water and sugar over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, until the sugar has dissolved. Take pan off heat and cool the syrup. Any extra cooled syrup can be saved in an airtight container in the refrigerator.


Yield: 1 cup





would rosemary be good?

What would be a good substitute for mint in this salad?
Rosemary would overpower the fruit in the salad; it's a very strong herb. I would either use sweet basil or maybe a little lemon thyme or even some lemongrass.
Reply:No rosemary, instead of spice you can try either mango or passion fruit puree
Reply:How about some fresh dill???
Reply:poppy seed


I've seen a Poppyseed Vinaigrette for fruit in the supermarket.
Reply:I don't know about rosemary. It seems too bold, but maybe it would work for you. I was thinking more along the line of cilantro. Cilantro with sweet things has got a real kicky taste. It might be too much for some, but I really like it.
Reply:Sometimes Thyme and Sage together will be a good sub for mint
Reply:No. Rosemary pairs more with savory dishes. If you can't find fresh mint, I would either use a bit of peppermint extract or leave it out completely.