Watermelon and Feta Salad with Mint
A sweet and savory summer salad that combines juicy watermelon, salty feta, and fresh mint to create a wonderfully refreshing dish perfect for hot summer days. This flavor combination activates multiple taste receptors simultaneously for a truly engaging culinary experience.
Ingredients
- 6 cups watermelon cubed (about 1 small watermelon, seedless preferred)
- 8 ounces feta cheese cubed or crumbled (sheep's milk feta offers the most authentic flavor)
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves roughly torn or chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil preferably cold-pressed for optimal flavor
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice approximately 1 medium lime
- 1 tablespoon honey optional, for added sweetness
- 1/2 small red onion thinly sliced (about 1/4 cup)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 pinch sea salt go easy as feta provides saltiness
Instructions
- Cut your watermelon into 1-inch cubes, removing all seeds if not using seedless. For the juiciest experience, choose a watermelon that sounds hollow when tapped. Chill the cubes for 30 minutes before assembling for an extra refreshing texture.
- Whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, and honey (if using) in a small bowl until well combined.
- Thinly slice your red onion. If you find raw onion too pungent, try soaking the slices in ice water for 10 minutes before draining and patting dry.
- In a large bowl, gently combine the watermelon cubes, feta cheese, and sliced red onion. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Sprinkle the torn mint leaves over the salad just before serving, then add a light seasoning of black pepper and a tiny pinch of sea salt.
Notes
For optimal freshness, store the components separately if preparing ahead of time. The dressed salad will maintain its best texture for about 2 hours at room temperature or 4 hours refrigerated.
You can substitute goat cheese or vegan feta for traditional feta, or use basil instead of mint though mint provides the signature cooling effect.
For a more filling main dish, add 2 cups of cooked quinoa or grilled chicken strips.
Nutrition
Calories: 165kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 5gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 260mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 15mg
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