Watermelon Arugula Salad

Watermelon Arugula Salad is the perfect summer dish that combines juicy watermelon and salty feta cheese on a bed of peppery arugula. This refreshing salad is ideal for picnics, barbecues, or simply as a light meal. With its vibrant colors and delightful flavors, it will impress your guests and leave everyone craving more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet watermelon pairs perfectly with the salty feta, creating a delightful taste experience.
• Quick & Easy to Prepare: In just 10 minutes, you can whip up this salad, making it an excellent choice for busy days.
• Healthy & Refreshing: Packed with nutrients, this salad is low in calories while bursting with fresh ingredients.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a light lunch, this salad fits right in at any gathering.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The bright colors of the ingredients make this salad visually appealing on any table.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Watermelon Arugula Salad, you’ll need a few essential tools that will help you create this dish effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large salad bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cup

Importance of Each Tool

• Large salad bowl: Provides ample space for mixing all the ingredients without spilling.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting the watermelon into cubes quick and easy.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertops while giving you a safe surface to chop ingredients.
• Measuring cup: Ensures accurate measurements of ingredients like olive oil for perfect flavor balance.

Ingredients

Watermelon Arugula Salad is the most amazing summer salad! Juicy and sweet watermelon and salty feta cheese on a bed of peppery arugula. Yum!

For the Salad

• 2 cups cubed watermelon
• 5 oz baby arugula
• 3 oz feta cheese
• sea salt
• pepper

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• balsamic reduction / glaze

How to Make Watermelon Arugula Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Watermelon

1. Cut the watermelon into cubes until you have about 2 cups full.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large salad bowl, add cubed watermelon, followed by crumbled feta cheese, placing them on top of the arugula.

Step 3: Season and Dress the Salad

1. Season the salad with sea salt and pepper to taste.
2. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic reduction over it.

Step 4: Toss and Serve

1. Give the salad a good toss to combine all ingredients well.
2. Enjoy your refreshing Watermelon Arugula Salad!

How to Serve Watermelon Arugula Salad

Watermelon Arugula Salad is a refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings. It pairs well with various foods and can be served in creative ways.

As a Light Lunch

• Serve it in a wrap: Use whole grain tortillas to create a fresh wrap filled with the salad for an easy lunch.
• Add grilled chicken: Top the salad with sliced grilled chicken for added protein and texture.

As a Party Appetizer

• Serve in small cups: Portion the salad into small cups for easy serving at parties.
• Pair with bruschetta: Offer toasted bread topped with bruschetta alongside the salad to complement the flavors.

With Grilled Dishes

• Accompany grilled fish: The lightness of the salad balances well with the richness of grilled salmon or tilapia.
• Serve with burgers: This salad makes a great side dish for any type of burger, adding freshness to your meal.

As a Picnic Delight

• Pack it in jars: Layer the ingredients in mason jars for an easy-to-carry picnic option.
• Combine with quinoa: Mix some cooked quinoa into the salad for a filling, nutritious side that travels well.

How to Perfect Watermelon Arugula Salad

To enhance your Watermelon Arugula Salad, consider these helpful tips.

• Use ripe watermelon: Ensure your watermelon is sweet and juicy for the best flavor.
• Fresh arugula is key: Opt for fresh baby arugula as it adds peppery notes that enhance the overall taste.
• Feta cheese choice matters: Use high-quality feta cheese for richer flavor; crumbled or cubed both work.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes enhances its refreshing quality.
• Experiment with toppings: Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pine nuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Customize dressings: Feel free to switch up balsamic reduction with lemon vinaigrette for a different taste palette.

Best Side Dishes for Watermelon Arugula Salad

Watermelon Arugula Salad is versatile and pairs beautifully with many side dishes. Here are some fantastic options to serve alongside:

1. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus adds smoky flavors that complement the salad.
2. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with cherry tomatoes and basil makes a hearty companion.
3. Caprese Skewers: Mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers provide a fresh Italian touch.
4. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread offers satisfying crunch and flavor that balances the lightness of the salad.
5. Fruit Platter: A vibrant assortment of seasonal fruits enhances the summer theme while staying refreshing.
6. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses paired with crackers adds variety and indulgence to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Watermelon Arugula Salad can be simple, but there are some common errors to watch for.

• Overseasoning the salad: It’s easy to go overboard with salt and pepper. Start with a little and adjust to taste.
• Using unripe watermelon: Ensure your watermelon is sweet and juicy for the best flavor. Choose one that feels heavy for its size and has a uniform shape.
• Not chilling the ingredients: For a refreshing salad, chill your watermelon and arugula beforehand. This enhances the overall taste and texture.
• Ignoring freshness: Use fresh arugula and feta cheese for optimal flavor. Old ingredients can make the salad taste bland.
• Skipping the balsamic reduction: This adds depth to your dish. Don’t skip it; drizzle generously for that perfect finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover Watermelon Arugula Salad in an airtight container.
• item It will last in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• item Keep the dressing separate if possible, to maintain freshness.

Freezing Watermelon Arugula Salad

• item Freezing is not recommended, as it affects the texture of the watermelon.
• item If you must freeze it, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month, but be prepared for a mushy texture when thawed.

Reheating Watermelon Arugula Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place salad on a baking sheet covered with foil. Heat for about 10 minutes, but be cautious of wilting greens.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short intervals of 15-20 seconds until warm; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Gently warm in a pan over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Watermelon Arugula Salad.

Can I add other fruits to my Watermelon Arugula Salad?

Yes! Fruits like strawberries or blueberries can add sweetness and color. Experiment with what you love!

How do I choose the best watermelon for my salad?

Look for watermelons that feel heavy and have a uniform shape. A dull skin often indicates ripeness.

Can I use another type of cheese instead of feta?

Absolutely! Goat cheese or mozzarella are great alternatives if you prefer different flavors.

Is Watermelon Arugula Salad healthy?

Yes! This salad is low in calories, high in vitamins, and offers hydrating properties thanks to the watermelon.

What can I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats or seafood, making it perfect for summer barbecues or picnics.

Final Thoughts

Watermelon Arugula Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different fruits or nuts based on your preferences. It’s perfect for hot summer days or as a side dish at gatherings. Give it a try, and enjoy this refreshing delight!