Description
A refreshing and vibrant Watermelon, Tomato, and Feta Salad combining juicy heirloom tomatoes and sweet watermelon with tangy feta cheese, dressed in olive oil and vinegar, and garnished with fresh basil for a perfect summer side dish.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 large heirloom tomatoes, cored and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cups cubed seedless watermelon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1 cup cubed feta cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or white balsamic vinegar (preferred)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Combine tomatoes and watermelon: In a large, nonreactive bowl, gently toss the cubed heirloom tomatoes and watermelon. Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and let the mixture stand for 5 to 10 minutes to slightly soften and enhance flavors.
- Prepare dressing and add feta: Whisk together the olive oil and vinegar. Drizzle this dressing over the tomato and watermelon mixture. Add the cubed feta cheese and fresh basil leaves, then toss gently to combine all the ingredients. Taste and add the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt as needed, depending on the saltiness of your feta.
- Serve and garnish: Divide the salad into serving bowls or plates. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper on top. Serve immediately for the freshest taste and texture.
Notes
- Use a nonreactive bowl such as glass or ceramic to prevent any metallic taste from reacting with the vinegar or salt.
- Letting the salad sit for a few minutes allows the flavors to meld without making the watermelon too watery.
- White balsamic vinegar provides a sweeter, less acidic taste compared to red wine vinegar.
- Adjust salt based on the saltiness of your feta cheese.
- Fresh basil can be substituted with mint for a different but complementary flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean