Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

The Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs is a refreshing and vibrant dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. Ideal for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a light lunch, this salad showcases juicy watermelon, peppery arugula, and creamy feta cheese. With fresh herbs elevating the taste, it’s a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute meals.
• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of watermelon and lemon juice creates a delightful burst of freshness.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients, this salad is low in calories yet high in flavor.
• Versatile Options: Feel free to switch up the herbs or add your favorite toppings to customize it.
• Great for Sharing: With six servings, it’s an excellent dish for potlucks or family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up this delicious watermelon salad, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Serving platter

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all the ingredients easily without spilling.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when chopping watermelon and herbs, enhancing presentation.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs:

• about 4 cups watermelon cubes (about 1 inch cubes)
• 3 Tablespoons olive oil
• zest 1 medium lemon
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup fresh mint (or oregano, basil leaves, parsley or dill), chopped (reserve a few whole leaves for garnish)
• 4 ounces feta cheese (approximately)
• 3 cups fresh arugula (about 4oz-113g or 720ml)
• freshly ground black pepper
• kosher salt to taste (optional)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a large bowl combine the following ingredients:
1. Olive oil
2. Lemon zest
3. Lemon juice
4. Chopped mint (or your choice of herbs)

Stir well until all components are blended together.

Step 2: Add Watermelon

Gently add the watermelon cubes to the bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to stir carefully so that each piece gets coated with the dressing.

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Now add the feta cheese crumbles and arugula into the mix. Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper on top. Gently toss everything together until evenly combined.

Step 4: Taste and Serve

Taste your salad to check if additional salt is needed; add kosher salt if desired. Serve chilled for maximum flavor enjoyment!

How to Serve Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs is a refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings or casual meals. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make the most of this delightful salad.

Serve as a Light Lunch

• Pair with whole-grain bread for a satisfying meal.
• Add grilled chicken for extra protein and flavor.

Present as a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled meats like chicken or steak to complement their flavors.
• This salad works well at BBQs and picnics.

Make it a Brunch Delight

• Offer it as a refreshing option at brunch with eggs or pastries.
• Drizzle with a balsamic glaze for added sweetness.

Garnish for Extra Appeal

• Top with extra herbs or edible flowers to enhance presentation.
• Use colorful serving dishes to brighten the table.

How to Perfect Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

To elevate your Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs, consider these simple tips that can enhance flavor and texture.

• Choose ripe watermelon: Opt for sweet and juicy watermelon for the best taste.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh mint or basil adds vibrant flavor; avoid dried herbs.
• Chill before serving: Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to meld flavors.
• Add texture: Incorporate nuts like walnuts or almonds for a crunchy contrast.
• Experiment with cheese: Try goat cheese as an alternative to feta for a different taste.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving; balance salt and pepper according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

This Watermelon Salad pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider when planning your meal.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Marinated chicken skewers add protein and are easy to prepare on the grill.
2. Quinoa Salad – A hearty quinoa salad brings texture and complements the freshness of the watermelon salad.
3. Caprese Salad – This classic Italian salad of tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella enhances your meal’s Mediterranean flair.
4. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn offers a seasonal touch that pairs well with the salad’s flavors.
5. Roasted Vegetables – A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables provides warmth and depth alongside the cool salad.
6. Pasta Primavera – Lightly sautéed vegetables with pasta add color and nutrition, making it an excellent companion dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs to the next level. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using overripe watermelon: Ensure your watermelon is fresh and firm. Overripe watermelon can lead to a mushy salad.
• Skipping the herbs: Fresh herbs add flavor and freshness. Don’t skip this step; choose herbs like mint or basil for the best results.
• Not chilling the salad: Serving this salad chilled enhances its refreshing taste. Always let it cool in the fridge before serving.
• Adding too much salt: Feta is already salty. Taste before adding more salt to avoid an overly salty dish.
• Forgetting to toss gently: When mixing ingredients, be gentle. This preserves the texture of the watermelon and feta.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

• Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
• Fresh ingredients may become mushy when thawed.

Reheating Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

• Oven: Not suitable for this salad; best served cold.
• Microwave: Avoid microwaving as it will alter textures and flavors.
• Stovetop: Not recommended; enjoy fresh and chilled.

Frequently Asked Questions

What goes well with Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs?

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or as part of a summer picnic spread.

Can I use other greens in my Watermelon Salad?

Absolutely! You can substitute arugula with spinach or mixed greens based on your preference.

How can I customize my Watermelon Salad?

Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch or swap feta for goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

Is Watermelon Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Prepare ingredients ahead of time and mix just before serving.

Final Thoughts

The Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs is a vibrant dish perfect for summer gatherings. Its combination of sweet watermelon and savory feta makes it a delightful addition to any meal. Customize it with your favorite herbs or nuts for an extra twist! Don’t miss out on trying this refreshing recipe!