Watermelon Arugula Salad is the perfect summer dish that brings together juicy watermelon, peppery arugula, and creamy feta cheese. This vibrant salad is not only refreshing but also incredibly versatile, making it suitable for picnics, barbecues, or a light dinner. With its delightful combination of flavors and textures, the Watermelon Arugula Salad will quickly become a favorite at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad takes only 10 minutes to make, making it ideal for busy days.
• Refreshing Flavors: The sweet watermelon paired with salty feta creates a delicious balance that’s perfect for summer.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins and minerals, this salad is a healthy choice for any meal.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a side dish or enjoy it as a light main course.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The bright colors of this salad make it a stunning addition to your table.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Watermelon Arugula Salad, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation quick and easy.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Large salad bowl
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for the watermelon, making your salad look appealing.
• Large salad bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to toss the ingredients without making a mess.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

Watermelon Arugula Salad is the most amazing summer salad! Juicy and sweet watermelon and salty feta cheese on a bed of peppery arugula. Yum!

For the Salad Base

• 2 cups cubed watermelon
• 5 oz baby arugula
• 3 oz feta cheese

For Seasoning

• sea salt
• pepper
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• balsamic reduction / glaze

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Watermelon Arugula Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Watermelon

Cut the watermelon into cubes until you have about 2 cups full.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, add cubed watermelon and crumbled feta on top of baby arugula.

Step 3: Season the Salad

Season your Watermelon Arugula Salad with sea salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and balsamic reduction over everything.

Step 4: Toss and Serve

Give the salad a good toss to combine all ingredients evenly. Enjoy your refreshing Watermelon Arugula Salad immediately!

How to Serve Watermelon Arugula Salad

Watermelon Arugula Salad is a great dish for summer gatherings and picnics. Its refreshing taste and vibrant colors make it a perfect addition to any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your salad experience.

As an Appetizer

• Small Portions: Serve in small cups or jars for an easy-to-eat starter.
• Garnish: Add mint leaves on top for a fresh aroma and visual appeal.

Pair with Grilled Meats

• Chicken Skewers: The sweetness of watermelon complements the smoky flavor of grilled chicken.
• Steak: A hearty steak pairs well with the peppery arugula and creamy feta.

On a Buffet Table

• Large Bowl: Present it in a large bowl for guests to help themselves.
• Individual Servings: Offer small bowls for individual servings, making it easy for guests to enjoy.

With a Bread Basket

• Crusty Baguette: Serve alongside slices of crusty bread to soak up the salad’s juices.
• Pita Chips: These add a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the salad.

As a Light Lunch

• Wrap it Up: Use as a filling in wraps for a light yet satisfying meal.
• Add Protein: Include grilled shrimp or chicken for added protein.

How to Perfect Watermelon Arugula Salad

To ensure your Watermelon Arugula Salad stands out, consider these tips. They can help enhance the flavors and presentation of this delightful dish.

• Bold Flavors: Use high-quality feta cheese to provide a rich, salty contrast to the sweet watermelon.
• Fresh Ingredients: Always choose ripe watermelon and fresh arugula for the best taste.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes before serving; this enhances its refreshment factor.
• Drizzle with Care: Use balsamic glaze rather than regular balsamic vinegar; it adds sweetness and thickness that complements the salad beautifully.
• Mix Gently: Toss the ingredients gently to avoid crushing the watermelon cubes and feta cheese.
• Experiment with Add-Ons: Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra crunch and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Watermelon Arugula Salad

Watermelon Arugula Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some delicious options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with the freshness of the salad.
2. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make an excellent refreshing side.
3. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad can balance out the lightness of the watermelon arugula dish.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies offer warmth and depth against the cool salad flavors.
5. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with soft ingredients in the salad.
6. Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits can enhance your meal while keeping it light and refreshing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating the perfect Watermelon Arugula Salad can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is essential for achieving the best flavor and texture.

• Skipping the seasonings: Many people forget to add salt and pepper. These enhancements elevate the flavors of the salad. Always season to taste!

• Using unripe watermelon: An unripe watermelon lacks sweetness and juiciness. Choose a ripe, fragrant watermelon for the best results.

• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much olive oil or balsamic reduction can make the salad soggy. Drizzle lightly and adjust according to your preference.

• Not tossing adequately: Failing to toss the ingredients properly can lead to uneven flavors. Mix well to ensure each bite has a balance of sweet, salty, and peppery notes.

• Ignoring freshness: Using wilted arugula or stale feta can ruin your dish. Always use fresh ingredients for the best taste and texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
• Consume as soon as possible for optimal freshness.

Freezing Watermelon Arugula Salad

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to its high water content.
• If you must freeze, store only cubed watermelon in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Watermelon Arugula Salad

• Oven: Not recommended; it will wilt arugula.
• Microwave: Quick heating can make it soggy; avoid using this method.
• Stovetop: Not advisable; best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Watermelon Arugula Salad?

Watermelon Arugula Salad is a refreshing summer dish that combines juicy watermelon with peppery arugula and salty feta cheese. It’s perfect for warm weather gatherings!

Can I customize my Watermelon Arugula Salad?

Yes! You can add nuts like walnuts or almonds for crunch, or swap feta with goat cheese if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How do I make a Watermelon Feta Arugula Salad?

Simply follow this recipe by incorporating feta cheese into your Watermelon Arugula Salad. The creamy feta pairs beautifully with the sweet watermelon!

Is this salad healthy?

Absolutely! Watermelon Arugula Salad is low in calories and packed with nutrients. It’s a great option for a light meal or side dish.

Final Thoughts

The Watermelon Arugula Salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its bright colors and refreshing flavors make it an ideal choice for summer gatherings or light lunches. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients! Enjoy this delightful salad today!

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Watermelon Arugula Salad

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 54 minute
• Yield: Serves about 4

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Description

Watermelon Arugula Salad is the quintessential summer dish, bursting with vibrant colors and refreshing flavors. This easy-to-prepare salad features juicy watermelon paired with peppery arugula and creamy feta cheese, creating a delightful balance that is perfect for warm weather gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cubed watermelon
• 5 oz baby arugula
• 3 oz feta cheese
• Sea salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Balsamic reduction/glaze (to drizzle)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Cut the watermelon into cubes until you have about 2 cups.
2. In a large salad bowl, layer the baby arugula, then add the cubed watermelon and crumbled feta cheese.
3. Season with sea salt and pepper according to your taste.
4. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and balsamic reduction over the top.
5. Toss gently to combine all ingredients without crushing the watermelon or feta.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Salad
• Method: No cooking required
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
• Calories: 160
• Sugar: 11g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: For added crunch, consider incorporating nuts like walnuts or almonds. If you want a sweeter flavor profile, opt for balsamic glaze instead of regular balsamic vinegar. For an extra refreshing taste, chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.