Palestinian Watermelon and Feta Salad with Mint
Experience the refreshing burst of flavors with this Palestinian Watermelon and Feta Salad with Mint. This dish combines the sweet juiciness of watermelon with the creamy tang of feta cheese, all enhanced by the aromatic freshness of mint. Perfect for a hot summer day, this salad is a delightful fusion of textures and tastes that will transport your senses to the Mediterranean coast.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Small whisking bowl
- Knife
- Chopping board
- Serving platter
Ingredients
- 4 cups watermelon, cubed (about 600g or 21oz)
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled (150g or 5.3oz)
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped (about 0.25oz or 7g)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (30ml)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic reduction (15ml)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (2.5g)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (0.5g)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (about 40g or 1.4oz)
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved (about 50g or 1.8oz)
Instructions
- Begin by cubing the watermelon into bite-sized pieces and placing them in a large mixing bowl.
- Thinly slice the red onion and add it to the bowl with the watermelon.
- Chop the fresh mint leaves and crumble the feta cheese, then add both to the mixing bowl.
- Add the pitted and halved Kalamata olives to the salad mixture.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic reduction to create a simple dressing.
- Drizzle the dressing over the watermelon and feta mixture, and gently toss to coat the ingredients evenly.
- Season the salad with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, giving it one final gentle toss.
- Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Notes
This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 hours before serving. The balsamic reduction adds a touch of sweetness and depth, but it can be substituted with a simple squeeze of lemon juice for a more zesty flavor profile.