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Fresh Watermelon Arugula Salad Recipe with Creamy Goat Cheese

fresh watermelon arugula salad - featured image
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A quick and refreshing summer salad combining juicy watermelon, peppery arugula, and creamy goat cheese with a simple balsamic dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or a vibrant side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups seedless watermelon, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 4 cups fresh arugula leaves, washed and dried
  • 4 ounces creamy goat cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted
  • A handful fresh mint or basil, roughly chopped
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or reduction
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cut about 4 cups of seedless watermelon into bite-sized cubes (roughly 1-inch pieces). Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup of walnuts or pecans and toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. Thinly slice about 1/4 cup of red onion. If desired, soak the slices in cold water for 5 minutes, then drain to mellow the flavor.
  4. Rinse 4 cups of fresh arugula leaves under cold water and dry thoroughly using a salad spinner or paper towels.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or reduction, and 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional). Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  6. Add the arugula, sliced onion, and toasted nuts to the bowl with watermelon cubes. Pour the dressing over and gently toss everything together, being careful not to crush the watermelon.
  7. Crumble 4 ounces of creamy goat cheese over the salad, then sprinkle chopped fresh mint or basil on top. Toss gently to distribute the cheese without melting it completely.
  8. Serve immediately for best freshness. The salad can be refrigerated for up to 2 hours before serving.

Notes

Use ripe watermelon with a creamy yellow spot for best sweetness. Keep arugula dry to avoid sogginess. Toast nuts carefully to avoid burning. Toss salad gently to prevent crushing watermelon. For dairy-free, substitute goat cheese with cashew cheese or omit cheese and add more nuts. Prepare ingredients separately if making ahead and toss just before serving to avoid soggy salad.

Nutrition

Keywords: watermelon salad, arugula salad, goat cheese salad, summer salad, fresh salad, easy salad recipe, healthy salad, quick salad

Find it online: https://leilameals.com/fresh-watermelon-arugula-salad-recipe-with-creamy-goat-cheese-easy-and-refreshing/