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Fresh Chilled Watermelon Feta Basil Salad Recipe with Easy Balsamic Drizzle

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A refreshing summer salad combining sweet watermelon cubes, creamy feta, aromatic fresh basil, and a lightly sweetened balsamic glaze. Perfect for hot afternoons and gatherings, this salad is quick to prepare and packed with vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups watermelon, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly torn or chiffonade
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Optional: toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch
  • Optional: thinly sliced red onion or shallots
  • Optional: goat cheese as a substitute for feta

Instructions

  1. Cut watermelon into roughly 1-inch cubes, aiming for uniform size.
  2. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until reduced by half and syrupy. Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. Rinse basil leaves and pat dry. Tear or slice into thin strips (chiffonade).
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine watermelon cubes, crumbled feta, and basil. Drizzle with olive oil and toss gently to combine without breaking the watermelon pieces.
  5. Season lightly with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  6. Arrange salad on a serving platter or bowl and drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze on top. Add optional nuts or red onion if desired.
  7. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Notes

Use fresh basil, not dried, for best flavor. Reduce balsamic vinegar slowly over low heat to avoid burning. Add salt sparingly due to feta’s saltiness. The balsamic glaze can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Toss salad gently to keep watermelon cubes intact. Optional ingredients like nuts or red onion add texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: watermelon salad, feta salad, basil salad, balsamic glaze, summer salad, refreshing salad, easy salad recipe

Find it online: https://milacook.com/fresh-chilled-watermelon-feta-basil-salad-recipe-with-easy-balsamic-drizzle/