Watermelon Salad

This vibrant Watermelon Salad is a delightful mix of sweet and savory that brings a refreshing twist to any occasion. Perfect for summer BBQs, picnics, or just a light lunch, this salad impresses with its colorful ingredients and zesty dressing. Enjoy the combination of juicy watermelon, crunchy cucumber, and creamy feta that makes it stand out on your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing Flavor: The blend of sweet watermelon and tangy lime juice creates a burst of flavor with every bite.
• Easy to Prepare: With a prep time of just 20 minutes, this salad is quick to whip up for any event.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with grilled meats or serve it as a light meal on its own; the options are endless.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh produce, this salad is low in calories while being rich in nutrients.
• Stunning Presentation: The vibrant colors make this Watermelon Salad not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will ensure that you prepare your Watermelon Salad effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for dressing
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Small bowl for dressing: Ideal for mixing the dressing ingredients thoroughly before adding them to the salad.
• Whisk: Ensures that the dressing ingredients blend smoothly together for an even flavor.

Ingredients

This refreshing Watermelon Salad is an irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors. Serve it at your next summer BBQ and it will be the hit of the meal!

For the Dressing

• zest of 2 limes
• 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons honey
• ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt
• freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For the Salad

• 6 cups cubed watermelon (¾-inch cubes)
• ½ English cucumber (quartered lengthwise and sliced ¼-inch thick)
• ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1 ½ cups cherry or grape tomatoes (halved, 6-8 ounces)
• 4 cups baby arugula (about 3 ounces)
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Watermelon Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, combine the lime zest, lime juice, olive oil, honey, Kosher salt, and black pepper.
2. Whisk until well mixed.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, add cubed watermelon, chopped cucumber, sliced red onion, halved tomatoes, and baby arugula.

Step 3: Combine Salad and Dressing

1. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture.
2. Toss gently to ensure everything is coated evenly.

Step 4: Add Feta Cheese

1. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top.
2. Toss gently again to incorporate without mashing the ingredients.

Serve immediately for best freshness! Enjoy this Watermelon Salad as a side dish or a light meal on warm days.

How to Serve Watermelon Salad

Watermelon Salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether at a summer gathering or as a light lunch, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

As a Refreshing Starter

• Pair it with grilled shrimp for a delightful contrast of flavors.
• Serve in individual bowls for an elegant presentation that impresses guests.

Accompanying BBQ Dishes

• This salad complements grilled meats perfectly, adding a refreshing taste alongside smoky flavors.
• It can also be served as a side dish with burgers or hot dogs during cookouts.

With a Twist of Extra Ingredients

• Add crushed nuts for crunch and texture, enhancing the overall experience.
• Drizzle some balsamic glaze over the top for added sweetness and visual appeal.

How to Perfect Watermelon Salad

Creating the perfect Watermelon Salad is all about balance and freshness. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Choose ripe watermelon: Select a watermelon that is heavy for its size and has a uniform shape. This ensures sweetness and juiciness.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs, quality olive oil, and ripe vegetables will enhance the salad’s flavor profile.
• Chill before serving: Refrigerate your salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
• Adjust seasoning: Don’t hesitate to tweak the salt and pepper according to your taste preferences, ensuring each bite is flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Watermelon Salad

Watermelon Salad pairs well with various side dishes, making your meal more delightful. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a smoky flavor that balances the freshness of the watermelon salad.
2. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed option that brings nutty flavors, complementing the lightness of the watermelon.
3. Caprese Skewers: These skewers offer a classic combination of tomatoes and mozzarella, perfectly contrasting with the fruity salad.
4. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides a savory touch that pairs well with sweet dishes like Watermelon Salad.
5. Pasta Primavera: A colorful vegetable pasta dish adds heartiness without overpowering the refreshing salad.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Filled with grains or meat, stuffed peppers make for a filling side that complements the lightness of watermelon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Watermelon Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can make or break the dish. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the dressing: A common mistake is not making the dressing or using store-bought options. Homemade dressing adds fresh flavor that elevates your salad.
• Overmixing ingredients: Mixing too vigorously can crush the watermelon and other delicate ingredients. Gently toss everything together to keep the salad fresh and appealing.
• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using old or wilted produce can ruin your salad. Always choose fresh ingredients for the best taste and texture.
• Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season your salad with salt and pepper can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
• Forgetting about presentation: A beautiful salad makes a great impression. Take time to arrange your ingredients attractively on the plate for a stunning visual appeal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Container: Use an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Separation: Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve, as it can make the salad soggy.

Freezing Watermelon Salad

• Not recommended: Freezing is not ideal for this salad due to water content in watermelon, which changes texture upon thawing.

Reheating Watermelon Salad

• Oven: Not recommended, as salads are best served cold.
• Microwave: Not advisable; it may wilt greens and change textures.
• Stovetop: Not suitable for reheating; enjoy this salad chilled!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add other fruits to my Watermelon Salad?

Yes! You can include fruits like strawberries, mangoes, or blueberries for added sweetness and variety.

How do I make a vegan version of Watermelon Salad?

Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative to keep it vegan-friendly while retaining delicious flavors.

What goes well with Watermelon Salad?

This salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats, seafood dishes, or even as a light appetizer at summer gatherings.

Can I prepare Watermelon Salad ahead of time?

While you can chop ingredients in advance, it’s best to combine everything just before serving for optimal freshness.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Watermelon Salad?

Consider adding fresh herbs like mint or basil for an extra burst of flavor that complements the sweetness of watermelon.

Final Thoughts

This refreshing Watermelon Salad is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its sweet and savory notes make it a crowd-pleaser at summer BBQs or picnics. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting flavors according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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Watermelon Salad

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Watermelon Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. This delightful salad features juicy watermelon, crisp cucumber, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty lime dressing, making it an ideal choice for summer BBQs, picnics, or a light lunch. With its colorful ingredients and quick preparation time of just 20 minutes, this salad not only impresses with its taste but also with its stunning presentation. Enjoy this nutritious dish that’s low in calories yet rich in flavor—perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 cups cubed watermelon
• ½ English cucumber
• ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1½ cups cherry tomatoes
• 4 cups baby arugula
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• zest of 2 limes
• 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons honey
• ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt
• freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together lime zest, lime juice, olive oil, honey, Kosher salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cubed watermelon, cucumber slices, red onion, halved tomatoes, and baby arugula.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat.
4. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top and toss lightly again before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 230mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 10mg