Watermelon Feta Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Watermelon Feta Salad with Balsamic Glaze: The Perfect Summer Bite
There are a few things that just scream summer: the smell of sunscreen, the sound of kids splashing in the pool, and the sweet, juicy taste of watermelon. And when you pair that watermelon with salty feta cheese, fresh mint, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze? Pure magic. This Watermelon Feta Salad with Balsamic Glaze is my go-to summer dish it’s easy, refreshing, and has just the right balance of sweet, savory, and tangy. Plus, it takes only 10 minutes to throw together. That’s my kind of recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Salad
If your summer is anything like mine busy, chaotic, and full of impromptu gatherings then you need a salad that’s quick, delicious, and impressive. This watermelon feta salad checks all the boxes. It’s:
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Ridiculously easy – Chop, sprinkle, drizzle, and you’re done.
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Packed with flavor – Sweet watermelon, salty feta, fragrant mint, and tangy balsamic glaze work in perfect harmony.
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Light but satisfying – Perfect for hot days when you want something refreshing but not heavy.
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A crowd-pleaser – Everyone loves it, even the skeptics who think fruit and cheese don’t belong together (trust me, they do!).
Ingredients You’ll Need
This salad is made with just a handful of simple ingredients, but each one plays a crucial role:
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Watermelon (3 cups, cubed): The star of the show! Make sure it’s ripe, sweet, and juicy.
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Feta cheese (2 tbsp, crumbled): Adds a creamy, salty contrast to the watermelon’s sweetness.
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Balsamic glaze (2 tbsp): A little tangy, a little sweet this ties everything together beautifully.
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Fresh mint (to taste, chopped): Bright, fresh, and oh-so-summery.
How to Make Watermelon Feta Salad
This salad is as simple as it gets, which means you’ll have more time to sip your iced tea and soak up the sun. Here’s how to put it together:
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Chop the watermelon – Cut your watermelon into bite-sized cubes and place them in a large bowl.
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Crumble the feta – Sprinkle the feta cheese over the top. Don’t be shy more feta equals more flavor!
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Drizzle with balsamic glaze – Pour the balsamic glaze evenly over the watermelon and feta.
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Add fresh mint – Chop up some fresh mint leaves and sprinkle them on top.
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Gently toss & serve – Give everything a light toss to mix the flavors, then serve immediately.
Variations to Try
This salad is perfect as-is, but if you want to mix things up, here are a few variations:
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Add some crunch – Toss in a handful of toasted almonds, pistachios, or pumpkin seeds.
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Make it extra herby – Swap or mix in basil for a different fresh twist.
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Give it a kick – A sprinkle of chili flakes or a drizzle of hot honey adds a little heat.
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Turn it into a meal – Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a light yet satisfying main dish.
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Swap the cheese – If feta isn’t your thing, try goat cheese or ricotta salata.
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Go citrusy – A squeeze of fresh lime juice can brighten up the flavors even more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best when served fresh. If you need to prep ahead, chop the watermelon and store it separately. Add the feta, balsamic glaze, and mint just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
What is balsamic glaze, and can I make it myself?
Balsamic glaze is a thick, sweetened reduction of balsamic vinegar. If you don’t have store-bought glaze, you can make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens and reduces by about half.
Can I use a different type of melon?
Absolutely! While watermelon is the classic choice, cantaloupe or honeydew would also work well with feta and balsamic glaze.
How do I choose a ripe watermelon?
Look for a watermelon with a deep, uniform color and a creamy yellow spot where it rested on the ground. It should feel heavy for its size and sound hollow when tapped.
What if I don’t like feta?
No worries! Try using goat cheese, mozzarella, or even a sprinkle of parmesan for a different take on this salad.
There’s something about the combination of juicy watermelon, salty feta, and tangy balsamic glaze that just feels like summer in a bowl. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for everything from backyard barbecues to lazy afternoons on the porch. So, the next time you need a quick, refreshing side dish, give this salad a try you won’t be disappointed!
What’s your favorite way to enjoy watermelon in the summer?
