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+ servings
Sheila Browder

Watermelon Arugula Salad Recipe

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.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 153

Ingredients
  

  • 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

Equipment

  • Bowl

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Watermelon
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. Drizzle the aged balsamic glaze on top. It brings a rich layer of flavor that accentuates the salad beautifully.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
  1. Gently toss the salad and serve immediately. You’ll want your guests or family to enjoy this dish at its best!

Nutrition

Calories: 153kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 16gFat: 9.2gSaturated Fat: 2.3gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 46mgSodium: 55mgFiber: 1gVitamin A: 33IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 3mgIron: 10mg

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.

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