Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese

This Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese is a vibrant and refreshing dish that captures the essence of summer. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or light dinners, this salad combines juicy watermelon with creamy feta cheese for a delightful contrast. The addition of fresh herbs and a zesty dressing elevates this dish, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: This salad takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of sweet watermelon and tangy feta creates a delicious harmony that’s perfect for hot weather.
• Versatile Pairing: This salad complements a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to hearty sandwiches, enhancing any meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and nutrients, this salad is not only tasty but also good for you.
• Colorful Presentation: The bright colors of the ingredients make this salad visually appealing, perfect for impressing your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your salad turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Salad serving dish
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: This tool is essential for mixing the dressing smoothly, ensuring all flavors blend well.
• Salad serving dish: A shallow dish keeps the ingredients intact and presents the salad beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 3 cups cubed watermelon
• 1 medium cucumber (diced)
• 8 oz Feta cheese (diced)
• ½ cup chopped fresh herbs (I used a mix of basil, mint, and parsley)
• ½ cup thinly sliced red onion (or more to taste)

For the Dressing

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red apple vinegar
• 1 tablespoon runny honey
• ¼ teaspoon salt (or more to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese

Step 1: Combine the Salad Ingredients

Add watermelon, cucumber, feta cheese, herbs, and red onion to a shallow salad dish. A ceramic casserole dish works great as it helps keep the feta intact.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, honey, and salt until fully combined. This ensures that every bite of your Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese is bursting with flavor.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything until evenly coated. Be careful not to squish the feta!

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Cover your prepared salad and chill it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. For the best flavor experience, enjoy it within 1-2 hours after preparation.

How to Serve Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese

Serving your Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese can elevate any meal, especially during the warm summer months. This refreshing dish pairs beautifully with various foods and occasions.

Casual BBQ Gatherings

• Grilled Meats: This salad complements grilled chicken or pork perfectly, adding a sweet and tangy contrast.
• Burgers: Serve alongside juicy burgers for an added layer of flavor that balances the richness of the meat.

Elegant Dinner Parties

• Appetizer: Present small portions in individual cups as a light starter before the main course.
• Party Platter: Combine it with other salads on a large serving platter for a colorful spread.

Picnics and Potlucks

• Chilled Delight: Prepare it in advance and keep it chilled for a refreshing treat that’s easy to transport.
• Pair with Bread: Offer crusty bread or pita chips on the side for scooping up the salad.

How to Perfect Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese

Perfecting your Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese is all about freshness and balance. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Bold Ingredients: Use ripe, juicy watermelon and fresh herbs to ensure vibrant flavors.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill enhances the taste and makes it more refreshing.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust the saltiness of the feta cheese by tasting and modifying the amount of added salt.
• Add Crunch: Incorporate nuts like walnuts or almonds for an extra crunch and a nutty flavor.
• Experiment with Dressings: Try different vinegars or citrus juices to give your salad a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese

When pairing side dishes with your Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese, consider options that complement its flavors. Here are some great suggestions:

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful crunch and sweetness that works well together.
2. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes create a classic combo that’s easy to prepare.
3. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad dressed in olive oil can provide a heartier balance to the meal.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring depth and earthiness that contrasts nicely.
5. Hummus Platter: Pairing hummus with fresh veggies offers additional textures and flavors.
6. Stuffed Peppers: These can add protein and heartiness to your table, making for a satisfying spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing a Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your salad turns out perfectly.

• Using Overripe Watermelon: Choose a firm, ripe watermelon for the best flavor and texture. Overripe watermelon can be mushy and too sweet, ruining your salad.
• Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs elevate the taste of your salad. Avoid using dried herbs; instead, opt for fresh basil, mint, or parsley for a vibrant flavor.
• Chopping Ingredients Too Small: If you chop the watermelon and cucumber too small, your salad may become watery. Keep the pieces large enough to retain their shape and texture.
• Skipping the Dressing: A good dressing is essential for flavor. Don’t skip it or skimp on the ingredients; a well-balanced dressing brings out the best in your Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese.
• Serving Immediately After Preparation: Letting the salad chill enhances its flavors. Avoid serving it right away; refrigerate for at least an hour before enjoying.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• How Long: Keep your Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent odors from affecting your salad.

Freezing Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese

• Not Recommended: Freezing this salad is not advised due to the high water content of watermelon, which can change its texture upon thawing.

Reheating Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese

• Oven: Not recommended for this dish as it is best served cold.
• Microwave: Avoid microwaving as it will wilt the fresh ingredients.
• Stovetop: This salad should not be reheated. Serve cold for optimal taste and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add more ingredients to my Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese?

Yes! Feel free to add other fruits like strawberries or blueberries for extra sweetness, or even nuts for crunch.

What type of feta cheese works best in this recipe?

Crumbled feta cheese is ideal as it blends well with the other ingredients while adding rich flavor.

How can I customize my Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese?

You can customize this salad by adding different herbs or substituting balsamic vinegar for red apple vinegar for a unique twist.

Is this Watermelon Salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.

Final Thoughts

This Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese is an incredibly refreshing side dish perfect for summer gatherings or picnics. Its vibrant flavors and colors make it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite fruits or nuts! Try making this quick and easy recipe today—it’s sure to impress family and friends!

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Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese is a delightful blend of refreshing flavors that embodies summer’s essence. This vibrant dish combines juicy watermelon and creamy feta, creating a perfect contrast that excites the palate. The addition of fresh herbs and a zesty dressing elevates this salad, making it an ideal choice for picnics, barbecues, or light dinners. In just 15 minutes, you can prepare a colorful salad that not only looks fabulous but is also nutritious and bursting with flavor. Whether served as a side dish or a light main course, this Watermelon Salad is sure to impress your guests and keep you cool on hot days.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups cubed watermelon
• 1 medium cucumber (diced)
• 8 oz feta cheese (diced)
• ½ cup chopped fresh herbs (basil, mint, parsley)
• ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red apple vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• ¼ teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, diced cucumber, feta cheese, chopped herbs, and sliced red onion.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red apple vinegar, honey, and salt until blended.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss until everything is well coated.
4. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving to enhance the flavors.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 330mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 15mg