Watermelon Salad with Feta and Mint: A Refreshing and Flavorful Summer Treat
Summer is the season for delicious and refreshing salads, and one of the most delightful combinations you can prepare is a watermelon salad with feta cheese and mint leaves. The perfect blend of sweet, salty, and zesty, this easy-to-make dish is an absolute crowd-pleaser at barbecues, picnics, or any outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 6 cups cubed seedless watermelon
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chiffonaded or finely chopped
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare your ingredients by gathering a ripe watermelon, quality feta cheese, fresh mint leaves, and a red onion. Choose a seedless watermelon variety for easier eating and a smoother salad texture. Use good-quality feta as it will better complement the flavors of the other ingredients.
2. Cube the watermelon into bite-sized pieces by first cutting the fruit in half lengthwise then remove the rind from each half. Slice each half into one-inch-thick slabs and cut each slab into one-inch strips. Finally, cut each strip into cubes.
3. Thinly slice the red onion to add a mild flavor to the salad without overpowering it.
4. Rinse and dry the fresh mint leaves before using a knife to gently chiffonade or finely chop them.
5. Assemble the salad by combining the cubed watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped mint leaves in a large bowl. Gently toss until ingredients are evenly distributed.
6. In a separate small bowl or container with a lid, prepare the dressing by combining the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake vigorously until thoroughly mixed.
7. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently mix to evenly coat all ingredients.
8. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to two hours before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully. Remember not to store watermelon salad for too long, as it will become soggy and less enjoyable.
Get ready to relish in the delightful flavors of summer with this watermelon salad with feta and mint recipe. Packed with refreshing ingredients and simple to make, this dish is sure to become a staple at your summer gatherings for years to come.