There is nothing like a hot summer day, chilling by the pool or relaxing on a friends’ deck, catching up, relaxing, laughing, and connecting. I love these days and honestly, they are so far and few between! If you want to make the most of these days and wow everyone at the next gathering then look no further, this watermelon recipe is a crowd-pleaser and a delight for the eyes.
This recipe encompasses the word f r e s h. Everything about it is meant to be enjoyed on the spot. Not only is it beautiful to present, it also has some unique and incredible health benefits. I remember the first time I tried it. I thought that watermelon was a solo dish until I tasted how well these ingredients go together. Are you on a keto or low-carb meal plan? You’ll be happy to know this dish meets most if not all of those requirements! Low-carb, keto, or paleo.
Ready to dive in? Let’s do it!
Why is this salad AMAZING?
Nowadays, when I’m going through the arduous task of trying to figure out what to eat, I think beyond just taste. Specifically, I’m looking for dishes that are good for the soul and for my hormone health. Because of my history with fitness, I know what it’s like to focus primarily on calories but when it comes to hormones, I’m more interested in nutrient density and hormonal support. Not only is this salad tasty, but it’s also packed with nutrients.
Watermelon is primarily made up of water and helps hydrate and it’s also high in lycopene. Lycopene is an antioxidant that has been known to help fight inflammation-causing free-radicals. In a way, it’s a great recovery dish. You can make this one and eat it right on the spot or store it away in the fridge for a couple of days. I’m not one for leftovers personally so I tend to make just enough for what’s needed but I know there are a lot of leftover lovers out there. You decide what works for you and your family!
If you have kids, they may not be too crazy about the feta, but you can set some watermelon cubes aside for them and make a fruit skewer instead.
What’s in this sweet and tangy Watermelon Feta Salad?
- Watermelon is packed with Vitamin C and A. The electrolytes potassium, and magnesium help us stay hydrated.
- Feta is a good source of vitamin B12, protein and calcium. It also contains high levels of omega-three fatty acids.
- Olive oil has amazing health benefits, aside from having healthy monounsaturated fats, it also has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Mint and Lime bring out the flavor and nuance of this low-carb recipe together.
How to make it:
- You’re going to want to cut up the seedless watermelons into cube sizes just big enough for one bite. Have a kitchen towel handy to soak up all the juice!
- Once the watermelon is cubed and placed into a large bowl, grab the feta cheese and crumble nicely. Set aside.
- You can use a vinaigrette shaker or a bowl and a whisk for the dressing. Take the olive oil, limes, salt, and pepper and combine. Shake or whisk. Taste test to your liking.
- Finally, tear the mint leaves up or if they’re on the small side, leave them whole. You decide baked on your flavor preferences.
- Combine all ingredients and stir thoroughly in your large bowl. Easy right?
Recipe
Watermelon Feta Salad
Ingredients
- 8 lb. whole seedless watermelon chilled (about 12 cups of cubed fruit)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 limes juiced
- 1 ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup mint leaves chopped
- 1 ½ cups crumbled feta cheese sheep’s milk feta preferred
Instructions
- Cut watermelon into 1 inch pieces and place in a large bowl.
- Crumble feta cheese and add to large bowl
- Tear mint leaves and add to large bowl with feta and watermelon
- Toss with hands until well combined.
To make the vinairgrette:
- Combine olive oil, lime juices, salt, and pepper and stir or shake till well combined.
- Drizzle vinaigrette and stir thoroughly.
- Chill for 4 hours before serving.
Nutrition
Want to make this a meal? Easy!
Pair this recipe alongside a protein-rich dish like BBQ Chicken! The way these two compliment each other makes it the quintessential “Summer meal.”
Did you try this recipe? Please be sure to rate it and leave me a message in the comments on what you thought! Also, don’t forget to follow omnomdelicious on Instagram, Pineterest, and Facebook and tag me so I can see what you create!