Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups cubed watermelon
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- None
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, chopped mint leaves, chopped basil leaves, and chopped red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
3. Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve the salad immediately, garnished with additional fresh mint and basil leaves if desired.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- Serve chilled
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Protein: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 350mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of feta cheese, you can use goat cheese or blue cheese.
- Instead of watermelon, you can use cantaloupe or honeydew melon.
- Instead of red onion, you can use shallots or green onions.
Variations:
- Add sliced cucumber or cherry tomatoes to the salad for extra crunch.
- Top the salad with grilled shrimp or chicken for a more substantial meal.
- Use a different type of vinegar, such as red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, for a different flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to use ripe, sweet watermelon for the best flavor.
- You can prepare the salad in advance, but wait to add the dressing until just before serving.
- If you don't have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs instead, but use less since they are more concentrated.
Storage Instructions:
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- None
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates.
- Garnish the salad with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of black pepper.
Garnishes:
- Fresh mint leaves
- Fresh basil leaves
Pairings:
- This salad pairs well with grilled meats or seafood.
- Serve with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Grilled vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the watermelon is not sweet enough, you can sprinkle a little sugar over it before adding it to the salad.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to wash all produce before using it in the salad.
- Store any leftover salad in the refrigerator and discard after 2 days.
Food History:
- Watermelon and feta salad is a popular dish in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly in Greece.
Flavor Profiles:
- Sweet, salty, tangy, and refreshing.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a side dish or light lunch.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Greek
Taste: Refreshing, Tangy, Sweet, Salty, Savory