Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint and Lime

Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint and Lime: A Refreshing Summer Delight

This unique and vibrant salad combines the juicy sweetness of watermelon with tangy feta cheese, aromatic mint, and a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for hot summer days, this dish offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients:

  • 6 cups seedless watermelon, cubed (about 1 small watermelon)
  • 200g feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Set aside.
  2. In a large serving bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, crumbled feta, chopped mint, and sliced red onion.
  3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
  4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Just before serving, give the salad a gentle toss and adjust seasoning if needed.

Things to avoid:

  1. Don’t prepare the salad too far in advance, as the watermelon will release water and make the salad soggy.
  2. Avoid using a melon baller for the watermelon, as it can create uneven pieces and waste fruit.
  3. Don’t substitute bottled lime juice for fresh, as it lacks the vibrant flavor needed for this dish.
  4. Refrain from over-mixing the salad, which can break down the watermelon and create a mushy texture.

Alternative ingredients:

  • If watermelon is unavailable, try using cantaloupe or honeydew melon.
  • For a dairy-free option, replace feta with cubed avocado or tofu feta.
  • Swap mint for fresh basil if preferred.
  • If you don’t have red onion, use thinly sliced shallots or sweet white onion.
  • Replace lime with lemon if needed.
  • For a vegan version, use agave nectar instead of honey.

Topping recommendations:

  • Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds for added crunch.
  • Add a handful of pitted Kalamata olives for an extra salty kick.
  • Garnish with edible flowers like nasturtiums for a pop of color.
  • Drizzle with a balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish.
  • Top with thinly sliced prosciutto for a savory twist (omit for vegetarian version).

This Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint and Lime is not only a feast for the eyes but also a refreshing and balanced dish that captures the essence of summer. The combination of sweet watermelon, salty feta, and zesty lime creates a flavor profile that is both exciting and comforting. Whether served as a light lunch, a side dish at a barbecue, or a unique appetizer at a dinner party, this salad is sure to impress and refresh your guests.

Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint and Lime