There’s something undeniably nostalgic about the taste of watermelon in the summer. It takes me back to family barbecues and picnics at the park, where the sun was hot, the laughter was loud, and the watermelon slices were always in abundance. This Watermelon Feta Salad captures all those memories in a bowl, blending the sweetness of watermelon with the tangy zest of lime, the rich creaminess of feta cheese, and the fresh burst of blueberries.
I first came across this delightful combination during a trip to Greece. The locals have a knack for combining simple, fresh ingredients in ways that elevate every bite. One hot afternoon, after a long stroll through ancient ruins, I was treated to a salad that was both a feast for the eyes and the palate. That experience inspired me to recreate my own version of the dish, with a few tweaks to make it even more vibrant.
What I love about this salad is how quickly it comes together. With just a few fresh ingredients and a handful of minutes, you can have a dish that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual lunch, a side dish at a cookout, or a light, refreshing dinner. The blend of sweet watermelon, juicy blueberries, and salty feta is simply irresistible. The addition of fresh mint and basil not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful pop of green, making this salad as visually appealing as it is delicious.
One tip I’ve found useful is to prepare the dressing in a mason jar. It’s so convenient to just shake it all up, and you can even store any extra dressing in the fridge for later use. Adjusting the honey to your preferred level of sweetness allows you to customize the salad to your taste. And don’t be afraid to experiment with the herbs—sometimes I add a bit of arugula for a peppery kick.
So, next time you’re looking for a quick and refreshing dish, give this Watermelon Feta Salad a try. It’s sure to become a favorite in your household, just as it has in mine.
How to Make Watermelon Feta Salad
Ingredients
- 7 to 8 cups seedless watermelon (cut into ¾ inch cubes)
- 1 ½ cups fresh blueberries (plus more to taste)
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese (plus more to taste)
- Fresh mint and basil leaves, thinly sliced (plus more for garnish)
- Juice of 1 ½ limes
- 1 to 2 tablespoons honey (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- A pinch of salt
Directions
In a mason jar, combine the lime juice, honey, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Shake until well mixed. Adjust the sweetness if necessary.
In a large bowl, combine the watermelon cubes, blueberries, mint, basil, and ¾ cup of crumbled feta cheese.
Pour the honey lime dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Top the salad with the remaining feta cheese and garnish with extra mint and basil leaves.
Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing salad!
FAQs:
Can I prepare the watermelon feta salad in advance?
While you can prepare the ingredients in advance, it is best to combine them just before serving. This ensures that the watermelon stays fresh and the herbs remain vibrant. If you need to prepare ahead, keep the dressing separate and add it right before serving.
What can I use as a substitute for feta cheese?
If you don’t have feta cheese, you can use goat cheese or ricotta salata as substitutes. These cheeses offer a similar texture and flavor profile, complementing the sweetness of the watermelon and blueberries nicely.
How should I store leftovers of watermelon feta salad?
To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate it. Although it is best enjoyed fresh, it can be stored for up to one day. Be aware that the watermelon might release some juice, making the salad slightly watery.
Can I add other fruits to the watermelon feta salad?
Yes, you can certainly add other fruits like strawberries or raspberries. These fruits will add extra sweetness and color to the salad, making it even more delicious and visually appealing.
Is there a vegan alternative for this salad?
For a vegan version, you can replace feta cheese with a plant-based feta alternative or use tofu crumbles. Additionally, ensure that the honey is substituted with maple syrup or agave nectar to keep the salad entirely vegan.
Watermelon Feta Salad
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups fresh blueberries plus more to taste
- 1 to 2 tablespoons honey to taste
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese plus more to taste
- Fresh mint and basil leaves thinly sliced (plus more for garnish)
- 7 to 8 cups seedless watermelon cut into ¾ inch cubes
- Juice of 1 ½ limes
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a mason jar, mix the lime juice, honey, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Shake well until everything is combined. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed.
- In a large bowl, toss together the watermelon cubes, blueberries, mint, basil, and ¾ cup of crumbled feta cheese.
- Drizzle the honey lime dressing over the salad and mix gently to coat everything evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining feta cheese on top and add extra mint and basil leaves for garnish.
- Serve right away and enjoy this refreshing salad!
