When the summer heat hits, there’s nothing quite like a dish that refreshes and satisfies. This watermelon salad with whipped feta is your go-to recipe for those sunny days. Crisp, juicy watermelon meets the creamy tang of whipped feta, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
It’s an easy, vibrant salad that brings a touch of elegance to any meal or gathering. Get ready to enjoy a refreshing culinary experience!
Steps
- Prepare the whipped feta by combining feta cheese, Greek yogurt, and olive oil in a food processor. Blend for 2 to 3 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed, until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine diced watermelon, sliced cucumbers, and thinly sliced red onion. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then gently toss to mix.
- Spread the whipped feta evenly across a serving plate. Arrange the watermelon, cucumber, and red onion mixture on top, then sprinkle with chopped fresh mint and a few turns of black pepper.
- Serve the salad immediately and enjoy its refreshing flavors.
Ingredients
- 5 to 6 cups diced seedless watermelon
- 3 Persian cucumbers, sliced
- 1/4 small red onion, very thinly sliced
- Juice of 1 lemon (approximately 2 tablespoons)
- Fine sea salt
- Freshly-ground black pepper
- 2 to 3 tablespoons finely-chopped fresh mint leaves
- 8 ounces feta cheese
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
FAQ
- Can I prepare the whipped feta in advance?
- Yes, the whipped feta can be made ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Give it a quick stir before using to bring back its creamy texture.
- What can I use instead of Persian cucumbers?
- English cucumbers are a great alternative to Persian cucumbers. They provide a similar crunch and texture, making them a perfect substitute in this salad.
- How can I reduce the sharpness of the red onion?
- To lessen the pungency of raw red onion, you can rinse the thinly sliced pieces in cold water briefly before adding them to the salad. This will help mellow the onion’s flavor.
- Are there any additional ingredients I can add to the salad?
- Absolutely! You can customize this salad by adding ingredients like arugula, avocado, or basil. For a different flavor twist, try a drizzle of balsamic glaze or sprinkle in some nuts or seeds like pistachios or pepitas.
- Is it possible to grill the watermelon for this salad?
- Yes, grilling the watermelon can add a smoky dimension to the salad. Simply grill the watermelon slices until they have light grill marks, then cut them into cubes and proceed with the recipe.
Tips
- Selecting Watermelon: Choose a watermelon that is firm, has a uniform color, and feels heavy for its size, indicating juiciness and ripeness. Additionally, tapping it should produce a hollow sound.
- Handling Onions: To reduce the sharpness of raw red onions, briefly rinse them in cold water before incorporating them into the salad.
- Whipping Feta: When making the whipped feta, ensure you pause occasionally to scrape down the sides of the food processor to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Customizing the Salad: Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like fresh arugula, avocado, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor and texture.
Equipment
- Food processor or blender – To whip the feta cheese, Greek yogurt, and olive oil into a smooth, creamy texture.
- Mandoline slicer – For thinly slicing the red onion.
- Large mixing bowl – To toss the watermelon, cucumber, and red onion.
- Serving plate – To assemble and serve the salad with the whipped feta base.
