This Watermelon, Arugula, & Feta Salad is the perfect addition to your summer gatherings. With its refreshing taste and vibrant colors, this salad shines on any table. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this dish elevates your meal. The combination of sweet watermelon, peppery arugula, and creamy feta creates a delightful balance that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing Taste: The sweetness of the watermelon pairs perfectly with the savory feta and peppery arugula.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 10 minutes, this salad is ideal for last-minute meals or snacks.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side or main dish; it complements grilled meats beautifully.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and minerals, it’s a guilt-free option for any meal.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The bright colors make it an attractive addition to any table setting.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious salad efficiently, having the right tools can make a big difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to toss the ingredients without making a mess.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurements for consistency in flavor.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertops while allowing for easy slicing of ingredients.
• Sharp knife: Aids in cutting through the watermelon and other vegetables cleanly.

Ingredients

For this refreshing Watermelon, Arugula, & Feta Salad, you will need:

For the Salad Base

• 6 cups arugula
• 2 cups watermelon (diced into 1-inch cubes)
• ⅓ cup feta cheese

For Flavor Boosters

• 10-12 mint leaves (sliced)
• ¼ red onion (thinly sliced)

For Dressing

• Extra virgin olive oil (drizzled)
• Balsamic glaze (drizzled)

this recipe

How to Make Watermelon , Arugula, & Feta Salad

Step 1: Marinate the Red Onion (Optional)

To reduce the sharpness of raw red onion:
1. Place the sliced red onion in a wide-bottom bowl.
2. Cover the onions three-quarters of the way with red apple vinegar (or white apple vinegar).
3. Add water until the onions are submerged.
4. Set aside and stir occasionally. This is best done at least one hour before serving; longer marinating enhances flavor.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. In a medium bowl or on a large platter, place the arugula as the base.
2. Add diced watermelon and feta cheese on top.
3. If using marinated red onion, strain it from the vinegar before adding it to the salad.

Step 3: Dress Before Serving

1. Just before serving, drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze over the salad.
2. Toss gently to combine all ingredients without wilting the arugula.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing summer treat!

How to Serve Watermelon , Arugula, & Feta Salad

Watermelon, arugula, and feta salad is a refreshing dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a light meal, this salad pairs well with various foods.

As a Standalone Dish

• This salad makes a great light lunch or dinner option on its own. The combination of flavors offers a satisfying taste without being too heavy.

With Grilled Meats

• Pairing this salad with grilled chicken or steak enhances the meal’s overall flavor. The coolness of the watermelon and the saltiness of the feta complement the charred meats perfectly.

On a Buffet Table

• Add this salad to your buffet spread for gatherings. It adds vibrant color and freshness, making it an appealing choice among heavier dishes.

As a Picnic Favorite

• Pack the salad in a container for picnics. It’s easy to transport and can be enjoyed cold, making it ideal for outdoor meals.

As Part of Meal Prep

• Prepare this salad in advance for quick lunches throughout the week. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness.

How to Perfect Watermelon , Arugula, & Feta Salad

Creating the perfect watermelon, arugula, and feta salad is all about balance and freshness. Here are some tips to enhance your dish:

• Choose ripe watermelon: Make sure your watermelon is sweet and juicy. A ripe watermelon will elevate the flavor of your salad.
• Use fresh arugula: Fresh arugula adds crispness and peppery notes that are essential for this salad. Avoid wilted greens.
• Opt for quality feta: A good-quality feta cheese will provide creaminess and tanginess that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• Marinate onions wisely: If using marinated red onions, allow them enough time to soak. This mellows their flavor and integrates better with the salad.
• Dress at serving time: To avoid sogginess, only add dressing right before serving. This keeps your arugula crisp.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add or substitute herbs like basil or cilantro for added flavor depth.

Best Side Dishes for Watermelon , Arugula, & Feta Salad

This delicious watermelon, arugula, and feta salad pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with herbs complement the freshness of the salad.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled with butter adds a delightful crunch alongside your meal.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing enhances texture while keeping things healthy.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables can provide warmth and earthy flavors that contrast nicely.
5. Caprese Salad: A classic caprese made with mozzarella and tomatoes adds an Italian touch to your table.
6. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread offers a comforting element that everyone will enjoy alongside your fresh salad.
7. Fruit Platter: An assortment of seasonal fruits provides a sweet finish after enjoying savory dishes.
8. Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served with crunchy pita chips makes for a satisfying snack option between bites of salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a watermelon, arugula, and feta salad, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the marination: Not marinating the red onion can lead to a strong flavor. Marinate it in vinegar for at least an hour to soften its taste.
• Dressing too early: Adding dressing too soon can make arugula soggy. Dress the salad right before serving for optimal freshness.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap olive oil or feta can ruin your salad. Always choose high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Overcrowding the bowl: Packing too many ingredients can make it hard to mix. Use a large bowl or platter to allow for even mixing.
• Omitting mint leaves: Ignoring mint will result in a less refreshing taste. Include fresh mint for added flavor and brightness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 2 days in the fridge but is best enjoyed fresh.

Freezing Watermelon , Arugula, & Feta Salad

• This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the texture of the watermelon and arugula.
• Fresh salads typically do not retain quality once frozen.

Reheating Watermelon , Arugula, & Feta Salad

• Oven: Not recommended; this salad is best served cold and fresh.
• Microwave: Avoid reheating; it alters the texture and taste significantly.
• Stovetop: Not applicable; serve as is without heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make watermelon, arugula, and feta salad ahead of time?

You can prepare elements like marinated onions and chopped ingredients in advance. However, it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain freshness.

What dressing goes well with watermelon, arugula, and feta salad?

A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze complements this salad beautifully. You can also experiment with citrus dressings for added zest.

How do I customize my watermelon, arugula, and feta salad?

You can add nuts like walnuts or almonds for crunch or incorporate fruits such as strawberries or blueberries for variety.

Is this watermelon, arugula, and feta salad vegan?

No, this recipe contains feta cheese. To make it vegan, substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.

Final Thoughts

This watermelon, arugula, and feta salad is a delightful dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors, perfect for summer gatherings or grilling nights. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Give it a try and enjoy the refreshing taste!

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Watermelon, Arugula, & Feta Salad

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

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Watermelon, Arugula, and Feta Salad—a perfect summer dish that combines refreshing sweetness with savory notes. This salad is not only a feast for the eyes with its colorful ingredients but also a delight on the palate. Juicy watermelon cubes mingle with peppery arugula and creamy feta cheese, creating a harmonious balance that will impress your guests at any gathering. Quick to prepare in just 10 minutes, this versatile dish can be enjoyed as a light lunch or paired beautifully with grilled meats. Elevate your dining experience while keeping it healthy with this guilt-free option that bursts with freshness.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 cups arugula
• 2 cups watermelon (diced into 1-inch cubes)
• ⅓ cup feta cheese
• 10–12 mint leaves (sliced)
• ¼ red onion (thinly sliced)
• Extra virgin olive oil (drizzled)
• Balsamic glaze (drizzled)

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Instructions

1. Optional: Marinate the sliced red onion in vinegar and water for at least one hour to mellow its flavor.
2. In a mixing bowl or large platter, layer arugula as the base.
3. Add diced watermelon and feta cheese on top.
4. If marinated, strain red onions and add them to the salad.
5. Just before serving, drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze over the salad.
6. Toss gently to combine ingredients without wilting the arugula.
7. Serve immediately.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: N/A
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: Use ripe watermelon for maximum sweetness. Fresh arugula enhances crispness; avoid wilted greens. Experiment with additional herbs like basil or cilantro for extra flavor.