Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 horned melons, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped yellow bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- None
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced horned melons, crumbled feta cheese, chopped mint leaves, chopped cilantro leaves, chopped red onion, chopped cucumber, chopped red bell pepper, chopped yellow bell pepper, and chopped green bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and fresh lemon juice. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
3. Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve the horned melon salad with feta immediately, garnished with additional fresh mint leaves or cilantro leaves if desired.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- Serve at room temperature
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 240
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 5g
- Fiber: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- If horned melons are not available, substitute with diced honeydew melon or cantaloupe.
- If feta cheese is not available, substitute with crumbled goat cheese or blue cheese.
- If fresh mint or cilantro is not available, substitute with fresh parsley or basil.
Variations:
- Add diced avocado or cherry tomatoes to the salad for additional flavor and texture.
- Substitute the lemon juice with lime juice for a different citrus flavor.
- Add a pinch of cumin or coriander to the dressing for a Middle Eastern twist.
Tips and tricks:
- To make the salad ahead of time, prepare the ingredients and dressing separately and combine just before serving.
- Use a sharp knife to peel the horned melons, as the skin can be tough.
- Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your taste preference.
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 horned melon salad with feta in a large salad bowl or on individual plates.
- Garnish the salad with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for color.
Garnishes:
- Fresh mint leaves
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Paprika
Pairings:
- Serve the horned melon salad with feta as a side dish to grilled chicken or fish.
- Pair with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled vegetables
- Rice pilaf
- Roasted potatoes
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the horned melons are not ripe enough, the salad may be too tart. Wait until the melons are fully ripe before using.
Food safety advice:
- Wash all produce thoroughly before using.
- Store any leftover salad in the refrigerator and discard after 2 days.
Food history:
- Horned melons, also known as kiwano, are native to Africa and have been used in traditional medicine for centuries.
Flavor profiles:
- The horned melon has a sweet and tart flavor, similar to a combination of cucumber and kiwi.
- Feta cheese adds a salty and tangy flavor to the salad.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the horned melon salad with feta as a refreshing summer salad or as a light lunch option.
Related Categories
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Taste: Tangy, Refreshing, Fruity, Salty, Creamy