Discovering a Summer Favorite
My Favoite is Watermelon & Feta Salad and I first stumbled upon the idea for my Watermelon & Feta Salad during a scorching summer day in Memphis. The air was thick with heat, and I craved something light and refreshing. Wandering through the bustling local farmers’ market, I was captivated by the sight of vibrant, juicy watermelons. Their sweet aroma was irresistible. As I gathered my ingredients, I knew I wanted to create a dish that celebrated the essence of summer.
The Magic of Mint and Pickled Strawberries
Back in my kitchen, I decided to pair the watermelon with creamy feta cheese for a delightful contrast. The sweetness of the watermelon complemented the salty tang of the feta perfectly. To add a unique twist, I included fresh mint leaves, which added a burst of coolness. But what really made this salad special were the pickled strawberries. Their tangy sweetness brought a whole new dimension to the dish, making each bite a delightful surprise.
A Dressing with a Kick
No salad is complete without a delicious dressing. For this creation, I wanted something zesty and slightly spicy. I whisked together mirin, lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of Aleppo pepper flakes. This dressing not only enhanced the flavors of the watermelon and feta but also added a subtle kick that lingered pleasantly on the palate. The combination was nothing short of magical, and I couldn’t wait to share it with my friends and family.
Sharing the Joy
I served the Watermelon & Feta Salad at a summer BBQ, and it was an instant hit. The vibrant colors and bold flavors stood out among the usual dishes. Everyone was intrigued by the pickled strawberries and the unique dressing. It quickly became a requested favorite at our gatherings. This salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of summer’s bounty, a reminder of the simple joys of fresh ingredients, and a testament to the power of creativity in the kitchen.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Watermelon & Feta Salad
- Ensure the watermelon is ripe and sweet to balance the salty feta and tangy pickled strawberries. Taste your dressing and adjust the lime juice or mirin for the perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
- Arrange the watermelon and feta cheese in a visually appealing manner before adding the mint and pickled strawberries. A beautiful presentation enhances the dining experience.
- Keep all ingredients chilled until ready to assemble. A cold salad is especially refreshing on hot summer days.
- Drizzle the dressing gradually and toss gently to ensure even distribution without crushing the watermelon cubes.
- Serve the salad immediately after adding the dressing to maintain the freshness and prevent the watermelon from becoming too watery.
Watermelon & Feta Salad
4
servings15
minutes0
minutes150
kcal15
minutesDive into a burst of summer flavors with this refreshing Watermelon & Feta Salad! Perfectly balanced with mint, pickled strawberry, and a zesty Aleppo mirin lime vinaigrette, this dish is a delightful mix of sweet, savory, and tangy. Inspired by the vibrant culinary scene of Memphis, this salad is a must-try for any food lover. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a light lunch, this salad will impress with its fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
Ingredients
- Watermelon Base
4 cups cubed seedless watermelon
- Cheese & Herbs
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, torn
- Pickled Elements
1/2 cup pickled strawberries, sliced
- Dressing
2 tablespoons mirin (sweet rice wine)
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper flakes
Salt and black pepper to taste
- Alternative Ingredients:
Feta Cheese: Substitute with goat cheese for a creamier texture.
Pickled Strawberries: Use fresh strawberries with a splash of balsamic vinegar if pickled strawberries are unavailable.
Aleppo Pepper: Replace with red pepper flakes for a similar heat level.
- Alternative Ingredients:
Feta Cheese: Substitute with goat cheese for a creamier texture.
Pickled Strawberries: Use fresh strawberries with a splash of balsamic vinegar if pickled strawberries are unavailable.
Aleppo Pepper: Replace with red pepper flakes for a similar heat level.
Directions
- Prepare the Watermelon – In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed watermelon and set aside.
- Mix the Cheese & Herbs – Add the crumbled feta cheese and torn mint leaves to the watermelon. Gently toss to combine.
- Add Pickled Strawberries – Incorporate the sliced pickled strawberries into the mixture for a tangy twist.
- Make the Dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together the mirin, fresh lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, Aleppo pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Combine & Serve – Drizzle the dressing over the watermelon mixture and gently toss to coat evenly. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 150kcal
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Potassium: 320mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 14g
- Vitamin A: 20IU
- Vitamin C: 25mg
- Calcium: 10mg
- Iron: 4mg
FAQ- Watermelon & Feta Salad
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
It’s best to prepare and assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh. You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator.
What if I can’t find pickled strawberries?
You can use fresh strawberries with a splash of balsamic vinegar as a substitute. This will add a similar tangy flavor to the salad.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, substitute the feta cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or omit the cheese entirely. The salad will still be delicious and refreshing.
How can I make the salad more filling?
Add a protein element like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Quinoa or chickpeas can also make the salad heartier.
What’s a good side dish to serve with this salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or a simple pasta dish. It also complements a variety of summer BBQ dishes.
