Ultimate Watermelon Feta Salad with Olives & Tomatoes Recipe
Dive into summer with a salad that promises to tantalize your taste buds and become the highlight of your dining table. Our Ultimate Watermelon Feta Salad blends the sweetness of ripe watermelon with the creamy tang of feta cheese, the juiciness of cherry tomatoes, and the distinct richness of Kalamata olives. Drizzled with lime-soaked onions and a hint of olive oil, each bite is a symphony of flavors. Perfect for any gathering or a simple family meal, this salad is not just food; it's a refreshing experience. Prepare to be delighted by a dish that's as nutritious as it is delicious.
Servings 8
Ingredients
- 4 cups of cubed watermelon about ½ inch cubes
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- ¾ cup feta cheese crumbled
- ½ cup pitted Kalamata olives halved
- 1 small red onion thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves chopped
- Juice of 2-4 limes divided use, adjust to taste
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Salt optional, to taste
Instructions
Soak the Onion:
- Place the thinly sliced red onion in a small bowl. Pour the juice of 2 limes over the onions to fully cover them. Let them soak for at least 15 minutes to soften their sharpness and infuse them with citrusy notes.
Compose the Salad:
- In a large serving bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and halved Kalamata olives. Toss gently to mix the ingredients.
Incorporate the Herbs:
- Sprinkle the chopped mint and basil leaves over the salad, distributing them evenly for a fresh and aromatic flair.
Prepare the Onions:
- After soaking, drain the onions well, discarding the lime juice. Notice how the onions have taken on a brighter hue and become slightly pickled in texture.
Assemble:
- Evenly scatter the lime-soaked onions over the salad, adding a layer of tangy crunch.
Dress the Salad:
- Drizzle the 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil over the salad. Depending on your taste preference and the sweetness of the watermelon, squeeze additional lime juice (1 to 2 limes) evenly over the salad. Season with freshly ground black pepper, and if desired, a sprinkle of salt.
Serve:
- Mix gently to combine all the flavors or serve as layered for a beautiful presentation. It's best enjoyed immediately to appreciate the freshness of the ingredients.
Notes
Additional Tips:
• Lime Juice Adjustment: Start with the juice of 2 limes for soaking the onions and adjust the tartness of the dressing with additional lime juice, tasting as you go to achieve the perfect balance.
• Serving Suggestion: This salad makes a refreshing appetizer or side dish, ideal for summer gatherings. Pair it with grilled meats or seafood for a complete meal.