Watermelon Salad Meets the Mediterranean: A Salad Story & a Recipe
It all started with a scorching summer afternoon and a refrigerator full of… well, not much. A lone watermelon stared back at me, daring me to turn it into something more exciting than just another slice. That’s when it hit me: why not combine the sweet, refreshing taste of watermelon with the savory flavors of the Mediterranean? The result? This Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint and Balsamic Glaze. Trust me; it’s a flavor explosion you won’t forget!
This isn’t your average fruit salad. We’re taking watermelon to a whole new level with a combination of salty, tangy, and herbaceous flavors that will leave your taste buds singing. It’s a perfect balance, and just as I mentioned in the Balance 360 Program, it’s about “a journey of rediscovering nutrition, wellness, and the power of mindful eating.” Who knew a simple salad could be so transformative?
Ingredients
- 4 cups cubed seedless watermelon
- 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved (optional, but highly recommended)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (or glaze for extra richness)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (or lemon juice)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- (Optional) 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts for added crunch
Instructions
- Prep the Watermelon: Cut the watermelon into bite-sized cubes. I like to use a melon baller for a fancy touch, but simple cubes work just fine.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the cubed watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, sliced red onion, mint leaves, and Kalamata olives (if using).
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or glaze), lime juice, salt, and pepper.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the watermelon mixture and gently toss to combine. Be careful not to overmix, as the watermelon can get mushy.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, garnish with toasted pine nuts (if using).
Tips: Beyond the Slice – Embrace the Watermelon Revolution!
This Watermelon Feta Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to explore the endless possibilities of fresh, seasonal ingredients. As the Balance 360 Program emphasizes, it’s about “embracing a lifestyle of balance and joy, where nourishing your body with wholesome foods becomes a delightful part of your daily routine.” This salad is a delightful part, indeed!
Ready to take your watermelon game even further? Consider these additions:
- Grilled Halloumi: Adding grilled halloumi cheese brings another layer of salty, savory goodness.
- Avocado: Creamy avocado slices enhance the texture and add healthy fats (just like Mathieu suggested adding calorie-dense foods!)
- Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey can add a surprising and welcome heat.
- Cucumber: Thinly sliced cucumber adds a refreshing crunch.
Don’t just slice – create! Download this recipe and share your own watermelon creations with #ChefWithMeWatermelonMagic. Let’s inspire each other to make this summer the juiciest one yet!