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Easy Watermelon Feta Mint Salad with Balsamic Glaze

watermelon feta mint salad with balsamic glaze - featured image

A refreshing 10-minute salad combining cold watermelon, salty feta, fresh mint, and a sweet-tart balsamic glaze. Perfect for hot summer days, busy weeknights, or as a crowd-pleasing side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 small seedless watermelon (about 45 pounds)
  • 6 ounces feta cheese (block, not pre-crumbled)
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional)
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
  • A handful of arugula (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the watermelon: Slice off both ends, stand it upright, and cut off the rind in strips. Cut the watermelon in half lengthwise, then into 1-inch thick slices. Stack and cut into 1-inch cubes. Place in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Prep the mint: Stack mint leaves, roll them up like a cigar, and slice crosswise into thin ribbons (chiffonade). Set aside about 1 tablespoon for garnish.
  3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together balsamic glaze, olive oil, and a pinch of flaky salt. Add a few cracks of black pepper. If too thick, add a teaspoon of water to thin.
  4. Assemble the salad: Pour dressing over watermelon cubes and toss gently. Add mint ribbons (except reserved garnish) and toss again.
  5. Add the feta: Crumble feta cheese over the top. Do not stir too much—leave distinct pockets of cheese.
  6. Finish and serve: Sprinkle reserved mint ribbons on top. Add extra drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired. Finish with a few more flakes of sea salt and black pepper. Serve immediately.

Notes

This salad does not sit well—watermelon releases water after about 30 minutes. Assemble right before serving. For make-ahead, cube watermelon, crumble feta, and make dressing separately; combine at the last minute. Chill watermelon for at least 1 hour before using. Pat watermelon cubes dry to help dressing stick. Use room temperature feta for better crumbling.

Nutrition

Keywords: watermelon feta mint salad, balsamic glaze, summer salad, easy salad, no-cook recipe, refreshing salad