Ah, watermelon, the unofficial mascot of summer—juicy, vibrant, and refreshingly sweet. Pair it with the creamy saltiness of feta and a hint of mint, and suddenly you’re transported to a perfect picnic day, even if it’s just a Wednesday night at your kitchen table. Did you know this salad became a viral sensation on TikTok last summer?
It’s true! (Or at least in my mind, it should have been.
Steps
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and salt to create the dressing. Whisk until well blended and set aside.
- On a large platter, arrange the cubed watermelon, diced cucumber, and sliced red onions evenly. Pour half of the prepared dressing over these ingredients.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and cubed avocado over the arranged salad. Add fresh mint or basil leaves and thinly sliced serrano pepper, if desired.
- Drizzle the remaining dressing over the salad. Season with sea salt to taste and serve immediately.
Ingredients
- 5 cups cubed watermelon
- Heaping 1 cup diced English cucumber
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ? cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 avocado, cubed
- ? cup torn fresh mint or basil leaves
- ½ jalapeño or serrano pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
- Sea salt
- Olive oil (for the dressing)
- Lime juice (for the dressing)
- Garlic (for the dressing)
FAQ
- Can I make this watermelon salad without any spicy ingredients?
- Absolutely! If you prefer a milder taste, you can omit the serrano pepper from the recipe. The salad will still be delicious without the heat.
- What can I use as a substitute for watermelon in this salad?
- Strawberries can be a great substitute for watermelon in this salad. They provide a similar sweet and juicy element that pairs well with the other ingredients.
- How can I make the watermelon salad into a full meal?
- To turn this salad into a more substantial meal, consider serving it on a bed of arugula and mixing in some cooked quinoa for added protein and texture.
- What other nuts can I add for extra crunch in the salad?
- For some additional crunch, you can add a handful of toasted walnuts or cashews to the salad. They complement the flavors well and add a nice texture.
- What dishes pair well with watermelon salad at a cookout?
- This salad is versatile and goes well with grilled dishes such as portobello mushroom burgers, veggie burgers, or grilled corn on the cob. It’s also a great companion for picnic sandwiches like a Caprese sandwich or a chickpea salad sandwich.
Tips
- To enhance the salad’s flavor and texture, consider adding a handful of toasted walnuts or cashews for an extra crunch.
- If you prefer a milder taste, you can omit the serrano pepper and still enjoy the refreshing blend of flavors without the spice.
- To transform this salad into a complete meal, serve it over a bed of arugula and mix in some cooked quinoa.
- For a fruity twist, try substituting strawberries for watermelon to create a delicious variation of the salad.
Equipment
- Citrus Juicer – For squeezing lime juice efficiently.
- Whisk – For mixing the dressing ingredients together.
- Platter or Large Serving Plate – For arranging and serving the salad attractively.
