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. Its vibrant colors and unique flavor profile make it a standout choice for picnics, barbecues, and even elegant dinner parties. This salad combines juicy watermelon with the peppery notes of arugula and the creamy richness of feta, creating an explosion of flavors that will leave your guests wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this salad comes together quickly, making it an excellent choice for busy days.
• Flavorful Combination: The sweet watermelon pairs perfectly with tangy feta and fresh herbs, offering a delightful balance of tastes.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the herbs to suit your preferences, allowing for unique variations every time you make it.
• Healthy and Refreshing: Low in calories and high in hydration, this salad is ideal for warm weather and healthy snacking.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, this salad fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs effortlessly, gather these essential tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Serving bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows enough space to combine ingredients without making a mess.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife ensures clean cuts for the watermelon cubes and herbs, enhancing presentation.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients while protecting your countertops.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 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)

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

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a large bowl combine olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and mint (or herbs of your choice). Stir to blend all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 2: Combine the Watermelon

Add the watermelon chunks to the dressing. Gently stir until all pieces are well coated with the mixture.

Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients

Next, add the feta cheese and arugula to the bowl. Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over the mixture. Carefully toss everything together to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Taste your salad for seasoning. If needed, add kosher salt according to your preference. Serve chilled for maximum refreshment.

Enjoy making this delightful Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs at your next gathering!

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

Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs is a refreshing dish perfect for warm weather. It can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

As a Light Lunch

• Serve it as a light lunch option, paired with whole-grain bread or pita to make it more filling.

In a Picnic Basket

• Pack it in a picnic basket for an easy and delicious salad that stays fresh and vibrant on the go.

As a Side Dish

• Use it as an excellent side dish alongside grilled chicken or turkey, complementing the savory flavors beautifully.

Garnished with Extra Herbs

• Top with reserved whole herb leaves for an elegant presentation that adds more freshness.

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

To create the ultimate Watermelon Salad, follow these simple tips.

• Choose ripe watermelon: Ensure your watermelon is sweet and juicy for the best flavor and texture.
• Chill before serving: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance its refreshing qualities.
• Customize your herbs: Experiment with different herbs like basil or dill for a unique twist on flavor.
• Adjust feta to taste: Feel free to use less or more feta cheese based on your preference for creaminess and saltiness.
• Add nuts for crunch: Consider tossing in some toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for added texture and nutrition.
• Use high-quality olive oil: A good quality olive oil will elevate the dressing’s flavor dramatically.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Watermelon Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinate chicken pieces in lemon juice and herbs before grilling for a flavorful pairing.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf with vegetables makes a nutritious side that complements the salad.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and warmth alongside the refreshing salad.
4. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad mixed with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers offers delightful textures.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice and herbs provide a hearty contrast to the lightness of the salad.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil makes for a low-carb option that’s fresh and satisfying.
7. Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice mixed with fresh herbs enhances the meal while remaining simple yet tasty.
8. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze bring an Italian touch that pairs well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the final dish.

• Using Overripe Watermelon: Always choose fresh watermelon that is firm and juicy. Overripe watermelon can lead to a mushy texture in your salad.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like mint or basil are essential for flavor. Don’t substitute dried herbs; they won’t provide the same vibrant taste.
• Not Chilling Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill enhances the flavors. Serve it straight from the fridge for the best experience.
• Adding Salt Too Early: If you add salt before tasting, it can draw out moisture and make the salad watery. Taste first, then adjust seasoning as needed.
• Ignoring Ingredient Proportions: Stick to the ingredient amounts in the recipe for balance. Too much feta or arugula can overwhelm other flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your leftover watermelon salad in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to texture changes in watermelon and feta.
• If necessary, keep it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month but expect a change in texture upon thawing.

Reheating Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

• Oven: Not recommended; best served cold.
• Microwave: Use only if absolutely necessary; warm gently on low power.
• Stovetop: Not advised; enjoy this dish fresh and chilled.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some variations of Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs?

You can customize your salad by adding other ingredients like cucumber or avocado for extra crunch and creaminess. Nuts like pistachios or walnuts also make great additions.

Can I use different herbs in my salad?

Absolutely! While mint is preferred, you can experiment with basil, dill, or parsley according to your taste preferences.

Is this Watermelon Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep.

How do I make this salad vegan-friendly?

To make a vegan version of Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative.

What goes well with Watermelon Salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish. It also makes an excellent side dish for barbecues and summer gatherings.

Final Thoughts

This refreshing Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs is not only a delightfully colorful dish but also versatile enough to fit into various meals. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and textures to suit your palate. Try it today and enjoy a burst of summer flavors!