Beat the summer heat with this incredibly refreshing Watermelon & Feta Salad! This vibrant salad is the perfect blend of sweet and salty, offering a light and satisfying meal or side dish that's ready in minutes. The juicy sweetness of watermelon perfectly complements the salty tang of feta cheese, creating a flavor explosion that's both unexpected and utterly delicious. Fresh mint adds a cool, herbaceous note, while a simple lemon vinaigrette ties everything together beautifully. It's the ideal recipe for a hot day, requiring minimal ingredients and effort for maximum flavor impact.
This simple yet elegant salad is incredibly versatile; feel free to add other ingredients like cucumbers, red onion, or jalapeños to customize it to your taste. Ready to experience the delightful combination of sweet, salty, and refreshing? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your own unforgettable Watermelon & Feta Salad.
Tools Needed
- knife
- cutting board
- bowl
- pan
Ingredients
- Watermelon: Half a watermelon
- Feta cheese: 3/4 cups, diced
- Pecans
- Red wine vinegar
- Fresh lemon juice
- Fresh lime juice
- Fresh mint (regular and chocolate)
- Vegetable oil: a little bit
- Black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Toast pecans in a pan on medium-high heat for 1.5 minutes, until the color changes. Transfer to a plate to cool.
- Cut the watermelon into half-inch thick slices, aiming for consistent size.
- Dice the feta cheese into roughly 3/4 inch pieces.
- Roughly chop the fresh mint.
Step 2. Assemble the Salad
- Combine the diced watermelon, feta cheese, and chopped mint in a bowl.
Step 3. Make the Dressing
- Whisk together red wine vinegar, fresh lime juice, fresh lemon juice, a small amount of vegetable oil, and black pepper.
Step 4. Combine and Serve
- Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well.
- Before serving, roughly crush the toasted pecans and sprinkle them over the salad.
Read more: Zaalouk Recipe: Easy Moroccan Eggplant Dip or Salad
Tips
- Tossing the pecans before using them enhances their flavor.
- Saputo feta cheese is recommended as it holds its shape well when sliced.
- The saltiness of the feta cheese eliminates the need for additional salt in the dressing.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 250-350
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 40-55g
- Protein: 5-10g
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the watermelon and feta separately a few hours in advance. Add the mint and dressing just before serving to prevent the watermelon from getting soggy.
2. What other fruits can I add to this salad?
Many fruits complement watermelon! Try adding blueberries, strawberries, or cantaloupe for extra sweetness and flavor.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
While feta is classic, you can experiment! Goat cheese or halloumi would also be delicious options.
This refreshing Watermelon & Feta Salad is the perfect embodiment of summer simplicity and flavor. With minimal effort, you can create a vibrant and delicious dish that will impress your friends and family. Enjoy this easy-to-make salad as a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a delightful summer snack!