Summer is a time for fresh flavors and vibrant ingredients. When I think of summer dining, a bright and refreshing salad never fails to pop into my mind.
Enter the Watermelon Arugula Salad. This dish is perfect for sunny picnics, backyard barbecues, or just a light lunch on a hot day. Trust me; the combination of juicy watermelon and peppery arugula is a match made in salad heaven.
But before diving into this delightful recipe, let’s talk about what pairs beautifully with this salad. grilled chicken or shrimp, perhaps?
Both add a satisfying protein component. You could also serve it with whole-grain bread or a side of quinoa for a filling meal. Each bite of this salad shines next to grilled meats or refreshing beverages, such as lemonade or iced tea. Together, they create a perfect summer experience.
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biting into refreshing cubes of watermelon, their sweetness perfectly contrasting with the peppery bite of fresh arugula. It’s a delightful journey for your taste buds. What sets this salad apart from others isn’t just the flavors but also its bright colors and simplicity.
I come to you as a mixture of a registered dietitian and a food enthusiast, eager to share a salad that’s nutritious, easy to prepare, and super satisfying.
With each bite of this Watermelon Arugula Salad, you’ll find a snapshot of summer itself. It doesn’t require hours in the kitchen but still makes an impressive offering to any meal.
Why This Recipe Works?
Dynamic Flavor Combination: The sweetness of watermelon combined with the peppery arugula creates a dance of flavors. This balance works wonders for your palate.
Nutrient-Packed: Watermelon is low in calories and high in water content, making it super hydrating. Arugula packs a punch with vitamins A, C, and K. Together they make a nutritious powerhouse.
Quick to Prepare: In just a few minutes, you can whip this salad together. Perfect for those busy summer days! It requires no cooking, making it a true time-saver.
Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adjust this salad. Whether you want to add nuts for crunch or swap feta for goat cheese, the possibilities are endless!
How Does It Taste?
The first bite is unforgettable. You experience the sweet burst of watermelon followed by a hint of pepper from the arugula.
The creamy feta adds a nice tanginess, while the olive oil and balsamic glaze tie everything together with richness. It’s a symphony of flavors, where the juicy and savory notes uplift each component.
What Sets This Recipe Apart?
Many watermelon arugula salads often lack depth. They might combine basic ingredients without a thoughtful touch. However, this recipe includes fresh mint leaves for an aromatic note that brightens the overall experience.
Using aged balsamic glaze instead of regular balsamic vinegar elevates the dish with a velvety sweetness and complexity.
The addition of shaved red onion enhances texture and gives a mild onion flavor without overpowering the refreshing elements. This salad is balanced and dynamic without overwhelming the palate.
The Ingredients
To create this fresh and inviting salad, gather the following:
- 7 oz of fresh baby arugula leaves
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 cup of crumbled Greek feta cheese
- 2 tbsp cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp lemon zest for brightness
- Pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 of a small red onion, finely shaved
- 3 cups of chilled, cubed seedless watermelon
- 2 tbsp aged balsamic glaze
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Watermelon
Start by cutting the seedless watermelon into bite-sized cubes. Chill them in the refrigerator if they aren’t cold already. The cooler, the better!
Step 2: Assemble the Greens
In a large mixing bowl, place the fresh baby arugula and chopped mint. This is where the salad starts to gain its character.
Step 3: Add the Onion
Finely shave a quarter of a small red onion. Toss it with the arugula and mint. This step ensures the onion flavor melds with the greens, creating a harmonious blend.
Step 4: Add Watermelon and Feta
Carefully fold in the chilled watermelon cubes. Then, sprinkle the crumbled Greek feta over the top. The sweetness of the melon and the creaminess of the feta create a delicious contradiction.
Step 5: Dress the Salad
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the salad. Remember not to skip this step; a good dressing ties all flavors together.
Step 6: Finish with Balsamic Glaze
Drizzle the aged balsamic glaze on top. It brings a rich layer of flavor that accentuates the salad beautifully.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Gently toss the salad and serve immediately. You’ll want your guests or family to enjoy this dish at its best!
Notes
- Select Ripe Watermelon: Choose a watermelon that sounds hollow when you tap it. A little thump goes a long way!
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh mint makes a significant difference. Avoid dried herbs for this salad.
- Chill Your Ingredients: If possible, keep all ingredients chilled until serving. Cold salads shine best.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try using goat cheese for a tangy twist. This provides a different flavor profile.
- Pre-Prep: You can prep the ingredients a day ahead, mixing the arugula and onions but keeping the watermelon and dressing separate until serving.
Nutrition Information
Watermelon Arugula Salad Recipe Nutrition Facts
How Do You Store This Watermelon Arugula Salad?
For optimal freshness, it’s best to eat this salad on the day you prepare it. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Avoid adding the dressing until you’re ready to serve, as it can cause the greens to wilt.
Sides for Watermelon Arugula Salad
Grilled Chicken: A perfect protein to accompany this salad. Season some chicken breasts with salt and pepper and grill until juicy. Serve alongside or on top of the salad.
Quinoa: Cooked quinoa adds texture and additional nutrients. It complements the flavors beautifully. Mix in some herbs for added depth.
Chickpea Fritters: If you’re looking for something crunchy, bake or fry chickpea fritters. Their crispy exterior adds a nice contrast to the salad’s fresh textures.
Alternative Ingredients
If some ingredients are hard to find or you’re missing them, don’t panic! Consider these alternatives:
- Arugula Alternatives: Use baby spinach if you prefer a milder flavor. Spinach offers similar nutritional benefits.
- Feta Substitutes: Try crumbled goat cheese or even a dairy-free feta for a twist. Either option brings its own unique flavor.
- Mint Alternatives: If mint is out of season, fresh basil can lend a surprising taste twist, giving an almost sweet element.
- Balsamic Replacement: Regular balsamic vinegar works but will lack the deep sweetness of the aged glaze. Consider adding a touch of honey to mimic that richness.
Watermelon Arugula Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by cutting the seedless watermelon into bite-sized cubes. Chill them in the refrigerator if they aren’t cold already. The cooler, the better!
- In a large mixing bowl, place the fresh baby arugula and chopped mint. This is where the salad starts to gain its character.
- Finely shave a quarter of a small red onion. Toss it with the arugula and mint. This step ensures the onion flavor melds with the greens, creating a harmonious blend.
- Carefully fold in the chilled watermelon cubes. Then, sprinkle the crumbled Greek feta over the top. The sweetness of the melon and the creaminess of the feta create a delicious contradiction.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the salad. Remember not to skip this step; a good dressing ties all flavors together.
- Drizzle the aged balsamic glaze on top. It brings a rich layer of flavor that accentuates the salad beautifully.
- Gently toss the salad and serve immediately. You’ll want your guests or family to enjoy this dish at its best!
Nutrition
Notes
- Select Ripe Watermelon: Choose a watermelon that sounds hollow when you tap it. A little thump goes a long way!
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh mint makes a significant difference. Avoid dried herbs for this salad.
- Chill Your Ingredients: If possible, keep all ingredients chilled until serving. Cold salads shine best.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try using goat cheese for a tangy twist. This provides a different flavor profile.
- Pre-Prep: You can prep the ingredients a day ahead, mixing the arugula and onions but keeping the watermelon and dressing separate until serving.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes! You can prep all the ingredients and store them separately. Just combine the salad and add the dressing right before serving for maximum freshness.
2. Is this salad suitable for special diets?
Absolutely. This salad is vegan if you skip the cheese. It’s gluten-free too, making it great for various dietary needs.
3. Can I add protein to the salad?
Yes, feel free to add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a protein boost. It makes the salad more filling and satisfying.
4. What are good substitutes for balsamic glaze?
You can reduce balsamic vinegar over low heat until it thickens, or mix balsamic vinegar with a bit of honey or maple syrup for a similar flavor profile.
Conclusion
The Watermelon Arugula Salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of summer’s bounty. With its unique blend of flavors, health benefits, and the ease of preparation, it embodies everything we love about seasonal eating.
Whether served as a side or a main, it brings color and joy to any table. So grab a watermelon, some arugula, and let the culinary adventure begin!
In the world of salads, this one surely deserves a standing ovation. Enjoy every vibrant bite, and share the love!