Watermelon , Arugula, & Feta Salad

This Watermelon, Arugula, & Feta Salad is a refreshing delight that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. Ideal for summer gatherings or as a side dish for grilled meals, this salad showcases the vibrant colors and textures of its ingredients. The combination of juicy watermelon, peppery arugula, and creamy feta makes it stand out on any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it an ideal choice for last-minute meals or summer barbecues.
• Refreshing Flavors: The sweetness of watermelon combined with the saltiness of feta creates a delicious contrast that is perfect for hot days.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a standalone meal or pair it with grilled meats for a delightful side dish.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, this salad is not just tasty but also healthy.
• Customizable: Feel free to add other ingredients like cucumber or nuts for extra crunch!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Watermelon, Arugula, & Feta Salad, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all the ingredients easily without spilling.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for chopping.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts on fruits and vegetables, enhancing presentation.

Ingredients

For this delightful Watermelon, Arugula, & Feta Salad, you’ll need:

Salad Base

• 6 cups arugula

Fresh Produce

• 2 cups watermelon (diced into 1 inch cubes)
• 10-12 mint leaves (sliced)
• ¼ red onion (thinly sliced)

Cheese

• ⅓ cup feta cheese

Dressings

• Extra virgin olive oil (drizzled)
• Balsamic glaze (drizzled)

How to Make Watermelon , Arugula, & Feta Salad

Step 1: Marinate the Red Onion (Optional)

To soften the flavor of the red onion:
1. Place the sliced red onion in a wide-bottom bowl.
2. Cover the onions 3/4 of the way with red apple vinegar (or white apple vinegar).
3. Add water until the onion is submerged.
4. Set aside and occasionally stir. For best results, let it marinate for at least an hour.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. In a medium bowl or on a large platter, place the arugula.
2. Add diced watermelon, marinated red onion (drained), mint leaves, and feta cheese.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

1. Just before serving, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze.
2. Toss gently to combine all ingredients without bruising the arugula.
3. Enjoy your refreshing Watermelon, Arugula, & Feta Salad!

How to Serve Watermelon , Arugula, & Feta Salad

Serving watermelon, arugula, and feta salad is a delightful experience that enhances any meal. This refreshing salad can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile addition to your summer dining.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it as a light lunch or dinner option. The combination of flavors and textures makes it satisfying on its own.

Accompanying Grilled Meats

• Pair it with grilled chicken or turkey. The fresh flavors of the salad complement the smoky notes from the grill perfectly.

On a Picnic

• Pack it for a picnic. Its portability and refreshing taste make it an excellent choice for outdoor gatherings.

As Part of a Buffet

• Include it in a buffet spread. The vibrant colors and unique flavors will attract guests’ attention and add variety to the meal.

How to Perfect Watermelon , Arugula, & Feta Salad

To elevate your watermelon, arugula, and feta salad, consider these helpful tips for the best results.

• Choose ripe watermelon: Selecting a sweet, ripe watermelon enhances the overall flavor of the salad.
• Use fresh arugula: Freshly sourced arugula adds a peppery crunch that balances the sweetness of the watermelon.
• Marinate red onion: Soaking red onion in vinegar helps mellow its sharpness, creating a more harmonious flavor profile.
• Dress just before serving: To keep the arugula crisp, only add dressing right before serving.
• Experiment with herbs: Adding other herbs like basil or cilantro can introduce new dimensions to your salad.
• Try different cheeses: If desired, substitute feta with goat cheese for a creamier texture and tangy flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Watermelon , Arugula, & Feta Salad

Watermelon, arugula, and feta salad pairs beautifully with various side dishes that enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewered and grilled until juicy complements the freshness of the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish with vegetables provides protein and fiber while being easy to prepare.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and earthiness to balance out the salad’s brightness.
4. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread offers a satisfying contrast to the crispness of the salad while being easy to share.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice or grains are visually appealing and hearty alongside this refreshing dish.
6. Caprese Skewers: These skewers made with mozzarella balls, tomatoes, and basil create another fresh flavor profile perfect for summer meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Watermelon, Arugula, & Feta Salad from good to great.

• Neglecting the Onion Marinade: Skipping the marination of red onion can result in a strong taste. Marinating softens the flavor and enhances the overall dish.
• Dressing Too Early: Adding dressing too soon can cause arugula to wilt. Dress the salad just before serving for a fresh, vibrant meal.
• Overcrowding Ingredients: Packing too many ingredients can lead to an unbalanced flavor. Stick to the specified amounts for best results.
• Using Low-Quality Olive Oil: Cheap olive oil can negatively affect the salad’s taste. Invest in good quality extra virgin olive oil for maximum flavor.
• Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Forgetting fresh herbs like mint can dull the salad’s brightness. Always add them for a refreshing touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Use an airtight container for storage.
• The salad is best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Watermelon , Arugula, & Feta Salad

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad as it will alter the texture of watermelon and arugula.

Reheating Watermelon , Arugula, & Feta Salad

• Oven: Not suitable for reheating; serve cold.
• Microwave: Avoid microwaving as it will wilt the greens.
• Stovetop: Not applicable; this salad is best enjoyed fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Watermelon, Arugula, & Feta Salad.

Can I add other fruits to my Watermelon , Arugula, & Feta Salad?

Yes! You can include fruits like cantaloupe or strawberries for added sweetness and variety.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You may use goat cheese or a plant-based cheese alternative if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.

How do I keep my Watermelon , Arugula, & Feta Salad fresh longer?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and dress just before serving to maintain freshness.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare all ingredients ahead of time but wait until serving to mix and dress them together.

What other dressings work well with this salad?

A simple lemon vinaigrette or yogurt-based dressing can complement the flavors nicely.

Final Thoughts

The Watermelon, Arugula, & Feta Salad is not only refreshing but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding nuts or swapping out cheeses. This delightful dish is perfect for summer gatherings or as a side with grilled meals. Give it a try!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Watermelon, Arugula, & Feta Salad

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• Author: Dian
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of summer with this Watermelon, Arugula, & Feta Salad. This refreshing dish combines sweet, juicy watermelon with the peppery bite of arugula and the creamy texture of feta cheese, making it a perfect side for grilled meats or a delightful stand-alone meal. Quick to prepare in just 10 minutes, it’s ideal for last-minute gatherings or picnics. The addition of mint leaves elevates its freshness, while a drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness that beautifully balances the savory notes. Enjoy this nutritious and customizable salad that not only looks stunning on your table but is also packed with vitamins and antioxidants.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 cups arugula
• 2 cups watermelon (diced)
• ¼ red onion (thinly sliced)
• 10–12 mint leaves (sliced)
• ⅓ cup feta cheese
• Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
• Balsamic glaze (for drizzling)

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Instructions

1. Optional: Marinate the red onion by soaking it in red apple vinegar and water for at least an hour to mellow its flavor.
2. In a large mixing bowl or platter, layer the arugula as the base.
3. Top with diced watermelon, drained marinated red onion, mint leaves, and feta cheese.
4. Just before serving, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze. Toss gently to combine without bruising the arugula.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing salad!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: N/A
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 5mg