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Fresh Watermelon Feta Mint Salad Recipe with Easy Balsamic Drizzle

fresh watermelon feta mint salad - featured image

A refreshing summer salad combining juicy watermelon, salty feta, fresh mint, and a tangy balsamic drizzle. Perfect for light lunches, picnics, or as a vibrant side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
  • 1 cup crumbled small-curd feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped or torn
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, a pinch (optional)
  • Sea salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cut about 4 cups of seedless watermelon into 1-inch cubes and place in a large mixing bowl.
  2. In a small saucepan, pour 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar. Warm over medium heat until it simmers gently, then reduce heat to low and simmer until thickened to a syrupy consistency, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second bursts until reduced. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup. Let cool slightly.
  3. Rinse and gently pat dry 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, then tear or chop roughly. Crumble 1 cup small-curd feta cheese.
  4. Drizzle 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil over watermelon cubes and gently toss to coat. Add mint leaves and crumbled feta to the bowl. Pour the balsamic drizzle evenly over the salad and toss lightly to combine without breaking the watermelon.
  5. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper over the salad, adjusting to taste. Transfer to a serving bowl or platter and garnish with a few whole mint leaves or a light sprinkle of cracked black pepper.

Notes

Keep the watermelon chilled before assembling to maintain its refreshing crunch. For a sweeter balsamic drizzle, reduce the vinegar more or add extra honey. Avoid tossing too vigorously to keep feta intact and watermelon cubes whole. Use small-curd feta for best texture. Fresh mint is essential for flavor; tear gently to release aroma without bruising.

Nutrition

Keywords: watermelon salad, feta cheese, mint, balsamic drizzle, summer salad, easy salad, refreshing salad, healthy salad