This Watermelon Feta Salad Delish is a make-ahead recipe that’s perfect for summer entertaining. It provides the delightful taste of fresh watermelon, feta cheese, and mint all in one scrumptious salad. I love this Arugula, Watermelon, and Feta Salad recipe because it’s quick to prepare and can be made several hours in advance, making it a great addition to any get-together. Also, it’s a healthy choice too!
Summer fruiting is in full swing, so here is a light and fresh Watermelon Feta Salad with Basil recipe that is perfect for these hot days. The Watermelon, Feta and Mint Salad tastes very sweet first but then we all know the many health benefits watermelon comes with.
Watermelon Feta Salad Delish
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, and salt.
- In a large serving bowl, combine watermelon, cucumber, feta, red onion, and mint. Pour over dressing, tossing to combine.
- Garnish with more mint and flaky sea salt.
- MAKES: 4
- PREP TIME: 0 HOURS 5 MINS
- TOTAL TIME: 0 HOURS 10 MINS
INGREDIENTS
- 60 ml extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp. red wine vinegar
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 450 g cubed seedless watermelon
- 120 g medium cucumber, chopped
- 150 g crumbled feta
- 75 g red onion, thinly sliced
- 15 g coarsely chopped mint
- Flaky sea salt, for garnish (optional)
DIRECTIONS
- Mix the salt, red wine vinegar, and olive oil in a small bowl.
- Combine watermelon, cucumber, feta, red onion, and mint in a sizable serving bowl. Pour over the dressing and mix.
- Add additional mint and flaky sea salt as a garnish.
Arugula, Watermelon and Feta Salad
Have you ever combined melon with feta? My Danish cousin originally introduced me to the dish many years ago, and I recall thinking how strange the flavors of watermelon, feta, and mint sounded together. Now that we’re in the modern era, it’s one of my favorite methods for preparing in-season melon.
I’ve eaten this salad twice in the last four days while on vacation with my family. When we are hungry but don’t want anything too heavy before returning to the beach, it is the ideal item to make for lunch. This watermelon, feta, and arugula salad satisfies every need for a perfect summertime lunch: it’s flavorful, light, and refreshing.
The ideal summer combination includes salty feta, sweet watermelon, and fresh mint. It’s time to create this salad when the watermelon is juicy enough to drip down your chin when you bite into a slice.
While I’m emphasizing watermelon in this article, cantaloupe, muskmelon, and honeydew can also be substituted for some or all of the melon.
I advise buying brine-packed feta since I believe its flavor is superior to that of vacuum-packed, pre-crumbled feta. You might locate this type of cheese in the speciality cheese aisle rather than the dairy aisle, depending on where you buy. Purchasing feta in brine retains it creamy, tangy, and sharp while prolonging the product’s shelf life to weeks as opposed to days.
Additionally, you may make sauces, marinades, and salads with the feta juice that is left behind. Try it as the foundation for my tofu feta!
Despite the fact that you may cook this salad without adding the feta, I like to do so for a more intriguing texture and tangy flavor.
Isn’t that what makes summer cuisine so appealing? Less fuss is preferable. This time of year, I feel that all I want to do is graze and consume as much fresh food as I can. Either as the main course or as a side dish to a heartier dinner, this salad is the ideal way to showcase juicy melon. Nothing can go wrong!
arugula, watermelon and feta salad
Arugula, Watermelon and Feta Salad! The BEST salad for summer! Super refreshing, salty and sweet. A must-make!
- PREP TIME: 10 MINUTES
- TOTAL TIME: 10 MINUTES
- YIELD: 4 SERVINGS
- CATEGORY: SIDE DISH, SALAD
- CUISINE: AMERICAN
Ingredients
- 4 cups cubed seedless watermelon
- 1/4 cup roughly chopped fresh mint leaves
- 4 ounces arugula leaves
- 1/3 cup chopped Kalamata olives
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Toss together the watermelon, mint, arugula and olives together in a large bowl. Drizzle over the olive oil, lemon juice and lemon zest along with a pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper. Toss again.
- Serve immediately after dividing into several bowls or a big platter and scattering the feta on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4th recipe
- Calories: 234
- Sugar: 11 g
- Sodium: 352 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1.6 g
- Protein: 6 g
Watermelon, Feta and Mint Salad
If you can, picture Cape Town in late January when the wind has died down and the temperature is still in the mid 30s at nine o’clock at night. We were scheduled to meet friends at a City restaurant that has become a favorite on a night like today. Culture Bistro.
Being fortunate enough to be sitting outside beneath a starry African sky, however, to be honest, the warmth and humidity made a substantial supper the last thing you wanted.
The meals on the specials board were all light and summery, indicating that the chef had given them a lot of care. Perfect on a night this warm. Good job, Chef! Since then, I have continued to prepare this dish for friends because it is so good.
Restaurants in Cape Town
The food capital of South Africa has just been established in Cape Town. In addition to a wide variety of native dishes, the city offers flavors from every possible location. The superb taste blending is delightful to appreciate. unable to get enough of it
A plus is the existence of winemaking in South America’s Western Cape.
It would be possible to visit a different wine farm every day for almost a month and not see the same one twice. For us, it’s a marriage made in heaven because many of the vineyards have their own restaurants. Particular favorites include the cheese plates at Fairview and Rusten Vreede.
Watermelon
The watermelon is an African-born fruit that is now widely consumed worldwide. Since it is such a flexible component to employ in the cooking, it has always been a favorite choice for us. Ivan’s favorite watermelon jam, watermelon juice, and watermelon martinis (my favorite).
The art of selecting the best watermelons is undeniable. The watermelon must be weighed between your palms, turned over, and given a solid thwap! on the underside. Why? A watermelon that is weighty, has a spot on its belly, and makes a hollow sound is ripe and at the height of its ripeness.
Watermelon, Feta and Mint Salad
Prep Time: 10 Minutes
With a straightforward chile, balsamic, and olive oil dressing, this dish combines delectable watermelon and cucumber with crumbled feta and olives for a vibrant and energizing combo.
INGREDIENTS
- ½ a Watermelon de-skinned and shaped into bite-size cubes
- 1 good handful of fresh mint
- 1 250 g pack of feta cheese
- ½ a small chili
- 1 tbs of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- ½ tbs of Balsamic vinegar
- 1 pinch of sea salt
- 1 good grind of pepper to taste
- 1 handful of rocket per person.
INSTRUCTIONS
- After cutting the watermelon into half-inch slices, cube it into equal-sized pieces. Then put it in the basin.
- The feta cheese should be drained, cut into cubes measuring 1/2 inch, and set aside to allow any remaining liquid to drain. Add the watermelon after that. Deseed and cut the chilies very finely in the meanwhile. After completing this activity, carefully wash your hands and the cutting board to prevent accidentally getting any juice on your face or eyes. To the watermelon and feta, add the chile.
- Remove the mint’s stalks and wash it thoroughly under cold running water. If you want the size and color to complement the other components, don’t chop it too finely.
- Give the mixture a thorough, gentle stir after adding the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar to ensure that all of the ingredients are distributed equally around the bowl.
- Squeeze some lemon or lime over a handful of rocket on a serving platter to enhance the flavor. Serve with a generous scoop of the watermelon mixture on top. Your visitors will adore it.
NOTES
This meal can be prepared in advance and requires little effort to prepare. A small part of me yearns for those warm balmy summer nights in the Cape every time we serve it.
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WATERMELON
Everything You Need to Know About Watermelon
I have been spending a lot of time in my kitchen during this uncertain period because that is where I feel happiest. My kitchen is a secure place where I can engage in my two favorite activities, cooking and, obviously, eating. Recently, the National Watermelon Promotion Board (NWPB) observed some of my dishes and learned that I wasn’t a big admirer of watermelon because I never knew how to properly prepare or choose one. The NWPB shared with me their instructions on how to choose, cut, and cook the ideal watermelon, and I’m eager to share them with all of you to help you alter your minds!
I made a Watermelon Feta Salad because I knew that if I was going to make a watermelon meal, it had to include some of my favorite ingredients. The nicest thing about this dish is that it only calls for 4 ingredients, making it simple to prepare and delicious to eat. To learn my expert advice from the NWPB on how to choose, cut, and cook a watermelon, continue reading below.
The idea that watermelon can only be consumed in the summer is one of the most widespread myths about it, however this is untrue! Watermelon is a year-round fruit that is not simply a summer treat. To enjoy this cooling fruit whenever you want, all you need to know is how to choose and chop a watermelon properly.
Below are the 3 steps provided by the NWPB to pick the perfect watermelon:
- Examine your watermelon to make sure there are no dents, bruising, or soft areas.
- Pick up the watermelon; considering that it is 92% water, it ought to be fairly heavy.
- Examine the watermelon’s underside for any ground markings.
- The area on the ground is where the watermelon was lying while it ripened in the sun. Buttery yellow is the ideal color for the spot; it shouldn’t be too white, green, or yellow.
The fact that my Watermelon & Feta Salad may be eaten for lunch, dinner, or a mid-afternoon snack makes it a go-to dish in my home. The health advantages of watermelon are one of the key factors in my decision to utilize it in cooking. Watermelon is 92% water, which keeps you hydrated and provides vitamins A and C (8% DV each). You will savor the fruit to the fullest, as watermelon adds a sunset of hues and sweet flavors to dishes all year long, whether you choose to dice the flesh into salsas or salads, grill as skewers for kabobs, or simply enjoy as a big, juicy slice.
Watermelon Feta Salad with Basil
One of the most cooling fruits is watermelon. Imagine a bowl of delicious summer food right now. Any protein of your choice, including grilled chicken, fish, burgers, or any cut of steak, pairs perfectly with this salad.
Recipe Ingredients
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 Limes
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Whole watermelon (cubed
- 1 cup medium cucumber, peeled and chopped
- 1/4 cup roughly chopped basil
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup coarsely chopped mint
Recipe Instructions
- Extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lime juice are combined in a small bowl.
- Combine watermelon, cucumber, feta, basil, and mint in a sizable serving bowl. Pour over the dressing and mix.
- Add extra feta, basil, and mint as a garnish.
- Happy Eating!
Benefits Of Watermelon
Loaded With Lycopene
The vivacious red hue is a result of the antioxidant lycopene. According to studies, it may reduce your risk of diabetes and cancer as part of a healthy lifestyle. More of this vitamin is present in watermelon than in any other fruit or vegetable, including tomatoes. Choose a melon with brilliant red flesh rather than one with yellow or orange if you want to consume more lycopene. The better, too, the riper. Additionally, melons without seeds usually contain more lycopene than melons with seeds.
Sun Benefit?
Some pigments aid in sun protection for plants. Oddly enough, simply eating them may provide some protection for your skin. Watermelon’s lycopene may reduce your risk of getting burnt. However, there is no way to know for sure, so continue daily use of your broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more.
Healthier Heart
Citrulline, an amino acid found in abundance in watermelon, may aid in the circulation of blood and reduce blood pressure. The benefits of all the lycopene that watermelon contains are also enjoyed by your heart. According to studies, it might reduce your risk of heart attacks. Your entire lifestyle, of course, has an impact on your heart health. So be sure to exercise, abstain from smoking, consume a limited amount of saturated fat, and follow your doctor’s instructions.
Protects Your Joints
Beta-cryptoxanthin, a naturally occurring pigment found in watermelon, may help to reduce inflammation in your joints. According to some research, it may eventually lower your risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.
Easy on Your Eyes
One medium slice of watermelon provides 9–11% of the daily recommended amount of vitamin A. This nutrient is essential for maintaining the health of your eyes. The best way to get all the vitamins and minerals your body requires is through food.
Naturally Sweet Hydration
Being 92% water, juicy watermelon is an easy way to remain hydrated. You require water for all of your body’s cells. You may feel lethargic if there is even a slight lack. The severity of dehydration can rise to the point that intravenous fluids are required.
Soothes Your Skin
Watermelon’s vitamins A, B6, and C support the health and suppleness of your skin. Melon also works well as a face mask because it is so high in water content. Greek yogurt and 1 tablespoon of juice from a watermelon are combined. For 10 minutes, spread over your face to slough off any dry, dull skin. Towel dry after rinsing.
Satisfies Your Sweet Tooth
You should expect to consume about 300 calories from one cup of ice cream. The same amount of watermelon contains only 45.6 calories. Additionally, it is sodium-free, cholesterol-free, and fat-free, unlike many other desserts. Its water content will also help you feel fuller for longer. Blend some watermelon till smooth, add a touch of lime, and place in the freezer until it sets up to make a simple sorbet.
Boosts Your Workout
The large amount of water, antioxidants, and amino acids in watermelon may result in a more effective workout. Additionally, it has a lot of potassium, a mineral that may help prevent cramping at the gym. Watermelon juice can be consumed after working out. As long as you don’t push yourself too hard, doing this might help prevent muscular discomfort.
Won’t Spike Your Blood Sugar
Trying to maintain consistent blood glucose levels? You are fortunate. The glycemic index (GI) value of watermelon is 80, roughly equivalent to that of a serving of cornflakes. However, there aren’t many carbohydrates in it. Its glycemic load, or how quickly and how much glucose it can produce in your body, is therefore only 5. Enjoy a slice without feeling guilty!