Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta Recipe

Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for summer. This salad combines the sweetness of watermelon with the cool crunch of cucumber and the tangy creaminess of feta cheese, creating a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Ideal for a light meal, a picnic, or as a side dish at a barbecue, this recipe is quick to prepare and sure to impress.

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Ingredients:

• 4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
• 2 cups cucumber, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or lime juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: ¼ cup toasted pine nuts or walnuts

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Watermelon and Cucumber
Cut the watermelon into bite-sized cubes and place them in a large salad bowl. Peel and slice the cucumber into half-moons or bite-sized pieces and add them to the bowl with the watermelon.

Step 2: Add the Feta Cheese
Crumble the feta cheese over the watermelon and cucumber. The feta adds a creamy, tangy element that pairs perfectly with the sweet and crisp components of the salad.

Step 3: Incorporate the Mint Leaves
Chop the fresh mint leaves and sprinkle them over the salad. Mint provides a refreshing burst of flavor that enhances the overall taste.

Step 4: Add the Red Onion
Thinly slice the red onion and add it to the bowl. The red onion adds a mild sharpness and additional crunch to the salad.

Step 5: Dress the Salad
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or lime juice), salt, and black pepper. Drizzle this dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine all ingredients evenly. If desired, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Note:

• Ensure to chill the watermelon and cucumber before preparing the salad for the best refreshing taste.
• Add the dressing just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.
• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve as a side dish with grilled meats such as chicken, fish, or steak.
• Enjoy it as a light, refreshing lunch on its own or with a slice of crusty bread.
• Pair with other summer dishes like corn on the cob, grilled vegetables, or a simple pasta salad.

Tips:

• Substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• For a more substantial salad, add arugula or mixed greens.
• Customize the salad by adding other fruits such as strawberries or blueberries.
• 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 Salad with Cucumber and Feta is a delightful and versatile dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. Its combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, along with a mix of textures, makes it an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a barbecue, planning a picnic, or looking for a refreshing lunch, this salad is sure to be a hit. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful recipe and bring a burst of freshness to your meals!

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