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Fresh Watermelon Feta Salad Recipe Easy Mint Balsamic Reduction

fresh watermelon feta salad - featured image

A refreshing summer salad combining sweet watermelon, creamy feta, fresh mint, and a tangy balsamic reduction drizzle. Perfect for light lunches, potlucks, or as a side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups watermelon, cut into bite-sized cubes (seedless if possible)
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped or torn
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Sea salt, optional, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the balsamic reduction: Pour 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon honey and stir to combine. Let it simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a syrupy consistency, about 10-12 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil too hard or burn. The mixture should coat the back of a spoon. Set aside to cool.
  2. Cube the watermelon: Using a sharp knife, cut the watermelon into roughly 1-inch cubes. Remove seeds if any. Place cubes in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Prepare the mint: Rinse fresh mint leaves, pat dry, then finely chop or tear into smaller pieces. Add to the bowl with watermelon.
  4. Add the feta cheese: Crumble about 1 cup of feta over the watermelon and mint.
  5. Drizzle with olive oil and season: Pour 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil evenly over the salad. Sprinkle a pinch of freshly ground black pepper and sea salt if desired.
  6. Toss gently: Using clean hands or salad tongs, toss the ingredients together carefully so the watermelon doesn’t get crushed.
  7. Serve and finish: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or platter. Drizzle the cooled balsamic reduction over the top just before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

Keep the balsamic reduction separate until just before serving to keep the watermelon fresh and crisp. Use a sharp knife to avoid squishing the watermelon. Fresh mint is preferred for best flavor. Salt sparingly as feta is already salty. Serve chilled but not ice-cold for best taste. The salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days if balsamic reduction is kept separate.

Nutrition

Keywords: watermelon salad, feta salad, summer salad, mint salad, balsamic reduction, easy salad, refreshing salad, gluten-free salad, vegetarian salad