Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs is the perfect dish for summer gatherings or a refreshing side for any meal. This vibrant salad combines sweet watermelon, peppery arugula, and creamy feta cheese, creating a delightful blend of flavors. Its versatility makes it suitable for picnics, barbecues, or even a light lunch at home. Enjoy the crisp textures and bright colors that make this salad not just tasty but visually appealing as well.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of juicy watermelon and fresh herbs provides a cooling effect ideal for hot days.
• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, you can whip up this salad in no time.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients, this dish is low in calories but high in flavor, making it a guilt-free choice.
• Versatile Dish: Pair it with grilled chicken or serve it at brunch; this salad fits various occasions seamlessly.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite herbs or adjust the feta amount to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential. This ensures that your ingredients are prepped quickly and cleanly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows ample space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when chopping watermelon and herbs, enhancing presentation.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop ingredients while protecting your countertops.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements of oil and lemon juice help maintain balance in flavors.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• about 4 cups watermelon cubes (about 1 inch cubes)
• 3 Tablespoons olive oil
• zest 1 medium lemon
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, oregano, basil leaves, parsley, or dill, chopped (reserve a few whole leaves for garnish)
• 4 ounces feta cheese (approximately)
• 3 cups fresh arugula (about 4oz-113g or 720ml)
• freshly ground black pepper
• kosher salt to taste (optional)

How to Make Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped herbs.
2. Stir well until all ingredients are mixed together.

Step 2: Add Watermelon

1. Gently add the watermelon cubes to the bowl.
2. Carefully stir to coat the watermelon pieces with the dressing.

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

1. Add the crumbled feta cheese, fresh arugula, and freshly ground black pepper to the bowl.
2. Gently toss everything together until well combined.
3. Taste for seasoning and add salt if needed.

Step 4: Serve

Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or light lunch. Enjoy!

How to Serve Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

Serving Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs can elevate any meal. This refreshing salad is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light lunch. Here are some creative ways to present it.

As a Starters

• Start your meal off right by serving this salad as an appetizer. It’s light and will whet the appetite without filling guests up too much.

With Grilled Meats

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken or turkey for a delightful contrast of flavors. The freshness of the salad complements the smoky taste of grilled meats perfectly.

On a Buffet Table

• This salad makes an excellent addition to any buffet spread. Its vibrant colors and refreshing taste will attract attention and delight guests.

In Individual Portions

• Serve in small bowls or mason jars for a charming presentation at parties. Individual servings make it easy for guests to enjoy without any fuss.

How to Perfect Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

For the best results with your Watermelon Salad, consider these simple tips that enhance flavor and presentation.

• Choose ripe watermelon – Select a watermelon that feels heavy for its size and has a uniform shape. This ensures maximum sweetness.

• Fresh herbs are key – Use freshly chopped herbs like mint, basil, or dill for vibrant flavors. Dried herbs do not give the same fresh taste.

• Chill before serving – Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors and makes it even more refreshing on hot days.

• Use high-quality feta – Opt for creamy feta cheese for better texture and flavor; crumbled options also work well but may not be as rich.

Best Side Dishes for Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

Complement your Watermelon Salad with some delicious side dishes that enhance your meal. These options pair wonderfully and can round out your dining experience.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Juicy chicken pieces marinated in herbs and spices add heartiness to your meal.
2. Quinoa Pilaf – A light quinoa dish mixed with vegetables provides added texture and nutrition.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection bring warmth and depth alongside the fresh salad.
4. Herbed Couscous – Fluffy couscous mixed with lemon zest and parsley complements the salad’s vibrant flavors.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful bell peppers filled with rice or beans offer a hearty vegetarian option.
6. Garlic Breadsticks – Warm breadsticks brushed with garlic butter provide a comforting side that pairs nicely with any fresh salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your salad turns out perfectly every time.

• Incorrect Herb Selection: Using the wrong herbs can overpower the salad’s flavor. Stick with fresh mint, basil, or parsley for the best results.
• Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with less and add more as needed after tossing.
• Not Chilling Before Serving: Serving the salad warm can dull its refreshing taste. Always chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• Using Low-Quality Feta: A good feta cheese enhances the flavor of the salad. Opt for high-quality feta for a creamier and richer taste.
• Cutting Watermelon Incorrectly: Uniform cubes of watermelon make for better presentation and texture. Aim for 1-inch cubes to ensure even distribution in each bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

• Not Recommended: Freezing is not ideal as it affects texture and flavor of watermelon and arugula.

Reheating Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

• Oven: Not recommended as this dish is best served cold.
• Microwave: Avoid microwaving; it will compromise the texture.
• Stovetop: Do not heat on stovetop; serve chilled instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs so refreshing?

The combination of juicy watermelon and peppery arugula creates a delightful balance that is perfect for hot days.

Can I use different herbs in my salad?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with herbs like dill or oregano based on your preference for varied flavors.

How long does it take to prepare this salad?

The prep time is only about 15 minutes, making it a quick and easy dish to whip up!

What should I serve with Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs is not only visually appealing but also versatile and refreshing. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or seeds for extra crunch or swapping out herbs based on seasonal availability. Give it a try this summer!