Introduction
Looking for a refreshing dish to beat the summer heat? This Watermelon Salad with Feta & Mint is the perfect solution! Bursting with flavors from sweet watermelon, savory feta, and aromatic herbs, this salad is both delightful and nutritious. It’s easy to prepare and serves beautifully at gatherings or as a light meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the dressing:
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
– ½ garlic clove, minced
– ¼ teaspoon sea salt
For the salad:
– 5 cups cubed watermelon
– Heaping 1 cup diced English cucumber
– ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
– ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 avocado, cubed
– ⅓ cup torn fresh mint or basil leaves
– ½ jalapeño or serrano pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
– Sea salt, to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes
Total Time
15 minutes
Yield
Serves 4-6
Enjoy this delightful watermelon salad, which beautifully merges textures and tastes, making it a must-try recipe for any summer occasion!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, and sea salt until well combined.
Assemble the salad
On a large plate or platter, arrange the cubed watermelon, diced cucumber, and sliced red onion. Drizzle with half of the prepared dressing.
Add toppings
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese, cubed avocado, torn mint or basil leaves, and sliced jalapeño or serrano pepper (if using) over the salad. Drizzle with the remaining dressing.
Season and serve
Season the salad with additional sea salt to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Customization options
Feel free to adjust the amount of lime juice and sea salt to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredient substitutions
If you don’t have feta cheese, goat cheese can be a great alternative. Additionally, you can use regular cucumber if English cucumber is not available.
Storage recommendations
This salad is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. The ingredients may become watery over time.
Serving suggestions
This salad pairs well with grilled meats or can be served as a light main dish during warm days.
Cook techniques
Whisking
Whisking is a technique used to combine ingredients smoothly. For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, and sea salt until well combined to create a cohesive mixture.
Arranging
Arranging ingredients beautifully on the plate or platter enhances the visual appeal of the salad. Layer the cubed watermelon, diced cucumber, and sliced red onion for an inviting presentation.
Sprinkling
Sprinkling involves evenly distributing toppings over a dish. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese, cubed avocado, and torn mint or basil leaves to ensure each bite has a balance of flavors.
Seasoning
Seasoning is crucial for enhancing the dish’s flavor. Add sea salt to the salad according to your taste preferences to elevate the overall taste of the dish.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese, ricotta, or any cheese of your preference that complements the sweetness of the watermelon.
Is it necessary to add the jalapeño or serrano pepper?
The jalapeño or serrano pepper is optional. It adds a subtle heat, but you can omit it if you prefer a milder salad.
How can I store leftover watermelon salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh, as the ingredients can become soggy over time.
Can I make the dressing in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a few days. Just give it a good whisk before using it.
What other herbs can I use in this salad?
In addition to mint or basil, you can experiment with other fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
This Watermelon Salad with Feta & Mint is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that embodies the essence of summer. The sweetness of watermelon, the creaminess of avocado, and the tanginess of feta, complemented by the freshness of mint, come together to create a light and refreshing dish. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or as a quick lunch, this salad is sure to please anyone looking for a vibrant and healthy meal.
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