I have created a unique Watermelon Feta Basil Salad that bursts with summer freshness. Juicy watermelon chunks mingle with crumbled feta and basil strips. A dash of salt and a balsamic glaze lend a delightful tang. This eye-catching combination of flavors offers an inviting culinary twist for your seasonal gatherings.

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I love sharing my summer finds and this Fresh Watermelon Feta Salad is one of my favorites. I started with 4 cups of juicy, seedless watermelon chunks that are cut into one-inch pieces, and then I tossed in 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese.

It’s amazing how the feta adds a savory note to the naturally sweet watermelon. I also add about 1/2 cup of fresh basil strips to bring a light herbal aroma that complements the fruit perfectly.

Then, I drizzle 2 to 3 tablespoons of balsamic glaze over the top which not only adds a tangy kick but really ties all the flavors together. I usually finish it off with a pinch of salt and some freshly cracked black pepper, just to balance it out.

This salad reminds me of other refreshing creations like watermelon salad with balsamic vinegar or even a twist of watermelon cucumber feta, and it’s perfect for BBQ sides or 4th of July appetizers. Enjoy!

Why I Like this Recipe

I love how the juicy watermelon chunks remind me of those long, hot summer days making every bite feel like a mini-vacation. I really dig the salty kick of the feta—it’s that perfect mix of sweet and savory that totally wakes up my taste buds. I also appreciate how the basil strips add a fresh, herbal note that ties the whole thing together, even if I sometimes mess up the measuring. And honestly, the balsamic glaze drizzled on top gives it a tangy finish that’s just irresistible.

Ingredients

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Hydrating, sweet fruit, loaded with vitamin A and C and some fibre.
Protein rich, tangy cheese that brings saltiness and creaminess to each bite.
Fresh basil strips add alot of herbal aroma, antioxidants, and a burst of vibrant flavour.
Gives a sweet and sour twist, uping the salad’s exciting taste.
Optional pinch of salt intensifies the existing natural flavours in the dish.
Freshly cracked black pepper gives a subtle spiciness and extra aroma.
All ingredients combine to create a refreshing, nutritious salad that excites your senses.
Every component brings extra vitamins and minerals, making the dish a health boost.

Ingredient Quantities

4 cups watermelon chunks (seedless and cut into roughly one-inch pieces)

1 cup crumbled feta cheese

1/2 cup fresh basil strips (about 15-20 leaves)

2 to 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze

A pinch of salt (optional)

Freshly cracked black pepper to taste (optional)

How to Make this

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1. Start by prepping all your ingredients because it’s key: cut your seedless watermelon into roughly one-inch chunks, crumble the feta cheese and slice about 15 to 20 basil leaves into strips.

2. In a big bowl, pour in the watermelon chunks.

3. Sprinkle the crumbled feta evenly over the watermelon.

4. Add the basil strips on top making sure they are spread out.

5. Drizzle 2 to 3 tablespoons of balsamic glaze over the whole salad.

6. If you want a little extra kick, add a pinch of salt and some freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

7. Give everything a gentle toss just enough to mix the flavors together without breaking up the watermelon too much.

8. Let the salad chill in the fridge for about 10 minutes so all the flavors get to know each other.

9. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed, then serve chilled.

Equipment Needed

1. A large cutting board for prepping the watermelon and basil leaves
2. A sharp knife to cut the seedless watermelon and slice the basil
3. A big bowl to mix and toss the ingredients
4. Measuring spoons for drizzling just the right amount of balsamic glaze and adding seasonings
5. A spoon or spatula to gently toss the salad so the flavors mix without breaking up the watermelon too much
6. A refrigerator to chill the salad for about 10 minutes before serving

FAQ

Q: Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?

A: Sure, you can prep the watermelon and basil ahead, but it's best to add the feta and drizzle the balsamic glaze right before serving is best so it doesn't get soggy.

Q: Can I use a different cheese if I don't like feta?

A: Yeah, you can use goat cheese or even a mild mozzarella as an alternative. They give a different flavor but still work greate with the watermelon.

Q: Does it need to be chilled before serving?

A: Its actually really refreshing when its cold, so chill your watermelon chunks in the fridge for about an hour, especially on a hot day.

Q: What should I do if my balsamic glaze is too thick?

A: If its too thick, you can warm it up a little bit or mix it with a tiny splash of water to thin it out, but be careful not to overdo it.

Q: Is it necessary to add salt and pepper?

A: The salt and pepper are optional but they add a nice contrast to the sweetness of the watermelon so its usually worth a pinch here and there.

Fresh Watermelon Feta Salad Recipe Substitutions and Variations

If you cant get seedless watermelon, try using honeydew or cantaloupe cubes instead they work pretty good.
If you’re out of feta cheese, goat cheese or even ricotta salata can be tasty alternatives.
If you don’t have fresh basil strips, mint leaves can be used to add a refreshing twist.
Instead of balsamic glaze, you can make a quick reduction by simmering balsamic vinegar with a little honey for a similar effect.
If you dont have regular salt, a pinch of sea salt might give your salad an extra hint of flavor.

Pro Tips

1. For a flavor boost, try letting your watermelon chill in the fridge for at least an extra 10-15 minutes before serving. It really helps bring the flavors together, plus it makes the salad super refreshing on a hot day.

2. When you toss the salad, be really gentle with it so you don’t end up smashing the watermelon. The chunks get all mushy and its hard to notice the crunch from the feta then.

3. Drizzle a tiny bit more balsamic glaze just before serving. Sometimes a little extra sweetness and tang can really change it up and make every bite pop.