Celebrate Summer with Watermelon, Feta, and Mint Salad

Watermelon Feta Salad with Lemon Dressing

Ingredients

• 1 (3-pound) watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes and chilled
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 4 ounces feta cheese, coarsely crumbled
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves

Directions

1. Place the chilled watermelon cubes in a large bowl.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, kosher salt, and black pepper.
3. Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the chilled watermelon and toss gently.
4. Top the watermelon with crumbled feta cheese and chopped mint leaves. Do not mix them in; just sprinkle over the top.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cook's Note

Sheeps milk feta is recommended for its creamier texture compared to cows milk feta. If desired, freshly squeezed lime juice and zest can be used as a substitute for the lemon.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition Fact	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	273	13%
Total Fat	20g	26%
Saturated Fat	6g	31%
Cholesterol	25mg	8%
Sodium	422mg	18%
Total Carbohydrate	21g	8%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Total Sugars	17g	-
Protein	6g	11%
Vitamin C	23mg	25%
Calcium	162mg	12%
Iron	1mg	6%
Potassium	320mg	7%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

This refreshing and vibrant salad is the perfect way to celebrate the sunny days of summer. Combining juicy watermelon, creamy feta cheese, and fresh mint leaves, it delivers a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and herbaceous flavors. With just a handful of ingredients, this salad is a simple yet sophisticated dish that can be enjoyed at any summer gathering.

History of the Dish

The combination of watermelon, feta, and mint has been a popular pairing in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. Known for its refreshing qualities, watermelon has been cultivated since ancient times, particularly in North Africa and the Middle East. The pairing of salty cheese like feta with sweet fruits like watermelon is a staple in many Mediterranean countries, where the contrast between salty and sweet creates a unique flavor profile. This particular salad gained popularity in recent years due to its vibrant colors and ease of preparation, becoming a go-to dish for summer picnics and barbecues.

Regional Features

This salad is particularly common in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, where both watermelon and feta cheese are widely enjoyed. In Greece, watermelon is often paired with feta in various forms, whether as a salad or as a side dish to grilled meats. In Turkey, mint and watermelon are also paired together in salads, reflecting the region's love for fresh, light dishes during the warm months. While variations of this dish exist, the basic combination of watermelon, feta, and mint remains a timeless favorite.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

What sets this watermelon, feta, and mint salad apart from other fruit salads is the balance of sweet and savory flavors. While traditional fruit salads often feature a variety of fruits and a simple citrus dressing, this salads inclusion of feta cheese adds a rich, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the watermelon. The mint not only enhances the freshness of the salad but also adds an aromatic herbal note that elevates the overall experience. Unlike many fruit-based salads, which can be overly sweet or overly acidic, this combination strikes the perfect harmony of flavors.

Where It Is Typically Served

This salad is a staple at summer gatherings, especially in warm climates where watermelon is in peak season. It is commonly served at barbecues, picnics, and outdoor parties, where its refreshing and hydrating qualities make it a crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity and lightness make it a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, seafood, or as a stand-alone dish for a light lunch. In more formal settings, it can also be served as a starter or appetizer, especially during Mediterranean or Middle Eastern-themed meals.

Interesting Facts

• Watermelon is composed of 92% water, making it an excellent hydrating fruit, perfect for hot summer days.
• Feta cheese, made from sheeps or goats milk, has been made for over 6,000 years in Greece and is considered one of the oldest cheeses in the world.
• Mint is not only a flavorful herb but also has digestive benefits and is often used in traditional remedies to soothe stomach ailments.
• This salad is highly versatile and can be customized with additional ingredients like olives, nuts, or other fruits like blueberries or grapes for extra flavor and texture.
• Watermelon is often considered a symbol of hospitality and abundance, and it has been a traditional gift in many cultures around the world.

FAQ about Celebrate Summer with Watermelon, Feta, and Mint Salad

Comments