Description
This Gluten-Free Watermelon Feta Salad is a refreshing, light, and vibrant dish perfect for warm weather. Combining juicy watermelon cubes with tangy sheep’s milk feta, fresh mint, and a zesty lemon dressing, this salad offers a delightful balance of sweet, salty, and citrus flavors. A quick and easy recipe, it makes for an ideal appetizer or side dish for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Fresh Produce
- 2 lb seedless watermelon (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1.5 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 5 strips lemon zest (finely chopped)
- 1/3 cup fresh mint leaves (torn)
- 2 tbsp red onion (very thinly sliced)
- 4 oz baby arugula
Dressing & Seasoning
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Cheese & Garnish
- 5 oz sheep’s milk feta (crumbled)
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Prepare the watermelon: Cut the seedless watermelon into 1-inch cubes, ensuring uniform size for consistent texture and bite.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, finely chopped lemon zest, and extra virgin olive oil to create a vibrant citrus dressing.
- Assemble the salad base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the torn fresh mint leaves, very thinly sliced red onion, and baby arugula, tossing gently to mix the flavors evenly.
- Add watermelon and season: Gently fold the watermelon cubes into the arugula mixture, then sprinkle the sea salt and freshly ground black pepper over the salad to enhance the taste.
- Add feta cheese: Crumble the sheep’s milk feta over the top of the salad, distributing it evenly for bursts of creamy, tangy flavor in every bite.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze: Just before serving, lightly drizzle 1 tablespoon of balsamic glaze over the salad to add a sweet tangy finish and visual appeal.
Notes
- For a nutty addition, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top before serving.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor; bottled lemon juice will not provide the same brightness.
- This salad is best served immediately but can be chilled for up to 1 hour before serving to maintain freshness.
- For a vegan variation, substitute feta cheese with crumbled tofu or a nut-based cheese alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Watermelon Feta Salad, Gluten-Free Salad, Summer Salad, Mediterranean Salad, Refreshing Salad, No-Cook Salad