Watermelon Basil Salad Recipe

Watermelon Basil Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for summer. Combining the sweet juiciness of watermelon with the aromatic freshness of basil and a hint of tang from feta cheese, this salad is an excellent choice for a light meal or a side dish at a barbecue. Here’s how you can create this delightful salad at home.

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Ingredients:

• 4 cups of cubed watermelon (seedless)
• 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese
• ½ cup of fresh basil leaves, torn
• ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: ¼ cup of toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Watermelon
Cut the watermelon into bite-sized cubes, removing any seeds if necessary. Place the cubes in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Add the Feta Cheese
Crumble the feta cheese over the watermelon cubes. Ensure the cheese is evenly distributed to get a good mix of flavors in each bite.

Step 3: Incorporate the Basil Leaves
Tear the fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces and sprinkle them over the watermelon and feta mixture. The basil adds a fragrant and fresh component to the salad.

Step 4: Add the Red Onion
Thinly slice the red onion and add it to the bowl. The onion adds a slight sharpness that complements the sweetness of the watermelon and the creaminess of the feta.

Step 5: Dress the Salad
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together until well combined. If using, add the toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an added crunch.

Cooking Note:

• To prevent the salad from becoming too watery, add the dressing just before serving.
• Make sure to use fresh basil for the best flavor. Dried basil will not provide the same aromatic quality.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the salad chilled for the best taste. Refrigerate for about 15 minutes after preparing.
• This salad pairs well with grilled meats such as chicken, fish, or steak.
• It’s also a great accompaniment to a variety of Mediterranean dishes.

Tips:

• If you prefer a more substantial salad, add some arugula or mixed greens.
• You can substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• For a vegan version, use a dairy-free cheese alternative and add extra nuts or seeds for protein.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 5g
• Sodium: 300mg

Conclusion

Watermelon Basil Salad is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that celebrates the freshness of summer ingredients. With minimal preparation time, this salad is perfect for any occasion, from casual family meals to festive gatherings. The combination of sweet watermelon, tangy feta, aromatic basil, and a light dressing makes it a delightful treat that everyone will enjoy. Try this recipe to add a burst of freshness and color to your meal!

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