If you are looking for a refreshing and delicious summer salad, look no further than our favorite watermelon salad. This salad is bursting with flavors and textures that will leave you craving for more. It’s the perfect combination of sweet and savory, making it a great addition to any meal or as a standalone dish.
The star of this salad is, of course, the juicy and vibrant watermelon. Its naturally sweet flavor is perfectly complemented by the tangy feta cheese and refreshing mint leaves. The addition of crunchy cucumber and peppery arugula adds a nice contrast of textures and flavors. And to bring it all together, a simple lemon and olive oil dressing is drizzled over the top.
Not only is this watermelon salad incredibly delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Watermelon is an excellent source of hydration, as it is made up of 92% water. It is also rich in vitamin C and a good source of vitamins A and B6. Feta cheese adds protein and calcium, while cucumbers and arugula provide additional vitamins and minerals.
Benefits of Watermelon
Nutritional Value
Watermelon is low in calories and fat, making it a great choice for those who are watching their weight. It is also a good source of important nutrients, including vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants. The fruit is also high in water content, which helps to keep the body hydrated.
Hydration
As mentioned earlier, watermelon is high in water content, with approximately 92% of its weight being water. This makes it an excellent fruit to include in your diet for hydration purposes. Staying hydrated is essential for overall health and helps to maintain optimal bodily functions.
Aids Digestion
Watermelon contains a natural fiber called pectin, which aids in digestion. Consuming fiber-rich foods like watermelon can help prevent constipation and promote regular bowel movements. The fruit also contains enzymes that assist in the digestion process.
Heart Health
The lycopene content in watermelon has been linked to heart health benefits. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering inflammation and oxidative stress. Additionally, the high potassium content in watermelon can help regulate blood pressure levels.
Skin Health
Watermelon is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin. These vitamins help promote collagen production, which keeps the skin firm and youthful-looking. Watermelon’s high water content also helps to hydrate and moisturize the skin, reducing the risk of dryness and promoting a healthy glow.
Exercise Recovery
The amino acid citrulline, found in watermelon, has been shown to improve exercise performance and aid in post-workout recovery. This is because citrulline can help reduce muscle soreness and improve the body’s ability to recover after intense physical activity.
Overall, incorporating watermelon into your diet can provide numerous health benefits, from hydration and digestion to heart and skin health. So, next time you’re looking for a refreshing and nutritious snack, reach for a slice of watermelon!
Ingredients for Watermelon Salad
- Watermelon: The star of the salad, watermelon provides a juicy and refreshing base. Choose a ripe watermelon with a vibrant red color.
- Cucumber: Cucumber adds a refreshing and crunchy element to the salad. Peel and dice the cucumber before adding it to the salad.
- Feta cheese: Feta cheese adds a creamy and salty flavor to balance the sweetness of the watermelon. Crumble the feta into small pieces before adding it to the salad.
- Red onion: Red onion adds a sharp and savory taste to the salad. It also adds a pop of color. Slice the red onion thinly and soak it in cold water for a few minutes to mellow the flavor.
- Fresh mint: Fresh mint leaves add a refreshing and aromatic touch to the salad. Tear or chop the mint leaves before adding them to the salad.
- Lime juice: Lime juice adds a tangy and citrusy flavor to the salad. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the salad to enhance its taste.
- Olive oil: Olive oil is used to dress the salad and adds a rich and smooth texture. Drizzle olive oil over the salad just before serving.
- Salt and pepper: Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. It helps to enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.
Once you have gathered all the ingredients, you can easily assemble the watermelon salad by combining the watermelon, cucumber, feta cheese, red onion, and fresh mint in a large bowl. Drizzle with lime juice and olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to mix everything together. Serve the salad chilled and enjoy!
Preparation Steps
To make our favorite watermelon salad, follow these simple preparation steps:
1. Gather the Ingredients
Before getting started, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients for the watermelon salad. You will need:
- 1 small watermelon
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
2. Prepare the Watermelon
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the watermelon in half. Place one half on a cutting board and cut off the rind. Then, cut the watermelon into bite-sized cubes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
3. Add the Toppings
Add the crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onion, chopped mint leaves, and chopped basil leaves to the bowl with the watermelon. Gently toss the ingredients together to combine.
4. Make the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour the dressing over the watermelon salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
5. Let it Chill
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the watermelon salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once chilled, remove the watermelon salad from the refrigerator and give it a final toss. Transfer it to a serving dish or individual plates, and garnish with some extra mint leaves if desired. Serve the refreshing and flavorful watermelon salad immediately and enjoy!