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Fresh Watermelon Feta Mint Salad with Balsamic Reduction

fresh watermelon feta mint salad - featured image
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A refreshing summer side dish combining juicy watermelon, tangy feta, fresh mint, and a sweet balsamic reduction drizzle for a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 cup (150 g) firm feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup (about 10 g) fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped or torn
  • 1 cup (240 ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • Pinch of salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the balsamic reduction: Pour 1 cup (240 ml) balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon (15 ml) honey or maple syrup into a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer. Stir occasionally and let it reduce to about 1/4 cup (60 ml), about 10-15 minutes, until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and let cool.
  2. Cut the watermelon into 1-inch cubes. Drain any excess juice if needed to avoid a watery salad.
  3. Crumble the feta cheese.
  4. Chop or tear the fresh mint leaves, removing any tough stems.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the watermelon cubes, crumbled feta, and chopped mint. Add a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
  6. Drizzle 1 tablespoon (15 ml) extra virgin olive oil over the salad. Pour about 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of the cooled balsamic reduction over the salad and toss gently to coat. Add more reduction if desired.
  7. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or platter. Optionally, garnish with whole mint leaves or toasted pine nuts.

Notes

Make the balsamic reduction a day ahead and store in the fridge; warm slightly before use. Avoid tossing the salad too early to prevent sogginess. Use ripe, firm watermelon for best texture. Use salt sparingly as feta is salty. Gentle tossing preserves watermelon and feta texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: watermelon salad, feta salad, summer salad, balsamic reduction, mint salad, easy side dish, healthy salad, refreshing salad

Find it online: https://emmaoven.com/fresh-watermelon-feta-mint-salad-recipe-easy-summer-side-dish-with-balsamic-reduction/