Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs is a refreshing dish perfect for warm days and gatherings. This vibrant salad combines juicy watermelon with peppery arugula and creamy feta, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or as a light lunch, this salad stands out not just for its taste but also for its colorful presentation. Plus, it’s quick to prepare—making it an excellent choice for busy cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of watermelon and arugula offers a burst of freshness that is hard to resist.
• Easy Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, this salad fits various occasions from casual lunches to festive dinners.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients, this salad is low in calories while providing essential vitamins and minerals.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix and match herbs based on what you have on hand, allowing for personal flair.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Salad tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Bowl: A large bowl is essential for mixing all the ingredients without making a mess.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when dicing watermelon and chopping herbs.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting ingredients safely.
• Salad tongs: These help in gently tossing the salad without bruising the delicate ingredients.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create your Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs:

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 other herbs like 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 your choice of chopped herbs. Stir well to blend the flavors.

Step 2: Add Watermelon

Gently fold in the watermelon chunks until they are evenly coated with the dressing.

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add crumbled feta cheese and arugula to the bowl. Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over the top. Gently toss all ingredients together until mixed well.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Taste your salad for seasoning and add kosher salt if needed. Serve chilled for maximum refreshment!

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

This refreshing Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs is perfect for summer meals or gatherings. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your salad experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy the salad on its own for a light lunch or snack. The combination of flavors makes it satisfying without needing anything else.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken for a heartier meal. The savory notes of chicken complement the sweetness of watermelon beautifully.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens to add more texture and nutrition. This adds volume and makes it visually appealing.

As a Side Dish

• Use this salad as a side dish for barbecues or picnics. Its vibrant colors and fresh taste can enhance any main course.

Topped with Extra Feta

• Sprinkle additional crumbled feta on top for those who love cheese. It intensifies the creaminess and flavor in each bite.

Garnished with Whole Herb Leaves

• Finish the dish with reserved whole herb leaves as garnish. This not only enhances presentation but also adds an aromatic touch.

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

To create the best version of this delightful salad, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Ripe Watermelon: Select watermelons that are firm and heavy for their size. A sweet, juicy watermelon will make your salad stand out.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Opt for fresh herbs rather than dried ones. Fresh herbs provide vibrant flavors that enhance the overall taste of the salad.

• Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator before serving. This helps meld the flavors together and enhances freshness.

• Balance Flavors: Adjust lemon juice and olive oil quantities based on your preference. Aim for a balance between tangy and rich flavors.

• Experiment with Cheese: While feta is traditional, try using goat cheese or a plant-based alternative if you want to switch things up.

• Add Crunch: Consider adding toasted nuts or seeds for an extra crunch. This addition provides contrast to the soft watermelon and creamy feta.

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

This watermelon salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its fresh flavors. Here are some great options.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Charred seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add depth and smokiness to your meal.

2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf flavored with herbs makes for a nutritious side that balances well with the salad’s sweetness.

3. Couscous Salad: A simple couscous salad mixed with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers offers another layer of freshness.

4. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until tender bring a comforting element alongside this refreshing dish.

5. Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy roasted chickpeas provide protein and texture, making them an ideal savory snack next to your salad.

6. Pita Bread with Hummus: Serve warm pita bread alongside hummus for dipping; it’s a fun way to enjoy more flavors while keeping things light.

7. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob drizzled with lime juice brings sweet and tangy notes that beautifully complement your meal.

8. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella balls create another burst of flavor that’s easy to prepare and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs is easy, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using overripe watermelon: Overripe watermelon can be mushy and lack flavor. Always choose firm, juicy watermelon for the best taste and texture.
• Not chilling the salad: Serving the salad warm can diminish its refreshing quality. Chill it in the refrigerator before serving for maximum enjoyment.
• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season your salad can lead to bland flavors. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the salt and pepper before serving.
• Cutting ingredients too small: If you cut the watermelon or herbs too finely, they may lose their texture and flavor. Keep chunks generous for a more satisfying bite.
• Overdressing the salad: Applying too much dressing can overpower the fresh ingredients. Start with less and add more as needed to achieve the perfect balance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It will keep fresh for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

• Freezing is not recommended due to changes in texture of ingredients like watermelon and feta.

Reheating Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

• Oven: Not recommended; this salad is best served cold.
• Microwave: Not recommended; overheating will alter texture and freshness.
• Stovetop: Not applicable; this dish is served chilled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs.

Can I use other cheese instead of feta?

Yes! You can substitute feta with goat cheese or a vegan alternative for different flavors.

How do I make a vegan version of this salad?

Simply replace feta cheese with a plant-based alternative or omit it entirely for a lighter option.

What other herbs work well in this salad?

You can use basil, dill, or cilantro as alternatives to mint for a unique twist on flavors.

How long does it take to prepare?

This refreshing Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs takes just 15 minutes to prepare!

Final Thoughts

This Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs is not only tasty but also versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts or seeds for crunch or swapping out herbs based on your preference. Give it a try for your next gathering or as a light meal!