Nothing says summer quite like a fresh, vibrant salad, and that’s exactly what you’ll get with this Watermelon Feta Arugula Salad. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a sunny afternoon, and I had guests coming over for a light lunch. I wanted something refreshing yet satisfying, and this salad fit the bill perfectly. The combination of sweet watermelon, creamy feta, and peppery arugula creates a beautiful contrast that you can’t resist. Not to mention, it looks stunning layered in jars, making it a perfect picnic companion!

As I prepared the ingredients, I could already imagine the delightful crunch of the arugula mingling with the juicy watermelon and the tangy balsamic vinegar. This salad is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or just looking to brighten up your lunch, this Watermelon Feta Arugula Salad is a must-try. Plus, it’s so simple to prepare that you can whip it up in no time, leaving you free to enjoy the sunshine!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Vegan

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board

Why We Love This Watermelon Feta Arugula Salad

Refreshing Flavor Profile

The Watermelon Feta Arugula Salad is all about balance. The sweetness of the watermelon perfectly offsets the creaminess of the feta, while the arugula adds a spicy kick. This combination of flavors creates a symphony on your palate that is both refreshing and satisfying.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, hosting a picnic, or needing a side dish for a BBQ, this salad fits the bill effortlessly. Its vibrant colors and delicious taste make it a crowd-pleaser across all age groups.

Easy to Prepare

With just a handful of ingredients, the Watermelon Feta Arugula Salad is incredibly easy to put together. You can have it ready in minutes, leaving you more time to enjoy your day.

Healthy & Nutritious

Packed with vitamins and minerals, this salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. The watermelon is hydrating, while arugula provides fiber and other essential nutrients.

Stunning Presentation

Layering the salad in jars not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also makes it easy to transport. Perfect for taking to work or a gathering, these jars will surely impress your guests.

Versatility

This salad can easily be customized based on what you have on hand. Feel free to add nuts for crunch or switch up the dressing to suit your taste. The Watermelon Feta Arugula Salad is your canvas!

Ingredients for Watermelon Feta Arugula Salad

The ingredients for the Watermelon Feta Arugula Salad come together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that is as nutritious as it is delicious. Each ingredient plays a vital role in enhancing the overall flavor. The sweet and juicy watermelon is the star, while the feta adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor. Arugula brings in a peppery note, and the balsamic vinegar and olive oil dress everything in a beautiful, flavorful coating. Together, they create a salad that is refreshing and unforgettable.

4 cups diced seedless watermelon: The star of the salad, adding sweetness and hydration.
3 oz crumbled feta: Provides creaminess and a salty tang that complements the watermelon.
3 cups baby arugula: Adds a peppery note, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
1/4 small red onion, chopped: Offers a slight crunch and sharpness to balance the sweetness of the watermelon.
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar: Acts as a tangy dressing, tying all the flavors together.
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps to meld the flavors.
1/8 tsp kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the ingredients.
Fresh black pepper: For seasoning and added flavor.

Cooking Method for Watermelon Feta Arugula Salad

The Watermelon Feta Arugula Salad is as easy to prepare as it is delicious. You’ll find that making this salad is a breeze, and it’s a fantastic way to impress your family or guests with minimal effort. Follow these simple steps to create the perfect refreshing salad.

Start by preparing your ingredients. Chop the watermelon into small cubes, ensuring that they are seedless for a smoother texture. You want about four cups, which is perfect for this salad.
Next, crumble the feta cheese into a bowl. The feta should be creamy, allowing it to mix well with the other ingredients. Aim for about three ounces.
Now, take the arugula and wash it thoroughly. Once cleaned, dry it gently using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towel. You need about three cups of fresh arugula.
Chop the small red onion finely. You want to balance the sharpness with the sweetness of the watermelon, so be careful not to use too much.
In a small bowl, mix the balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil. Whisk them together until they are well combined. This dressing will enhance the flavors of your salad beautifully.
Now comes the fun part! Take four pint-sized glass jars and begin layering your ingredients. Start with the onion at the bottom of each jar, followed by the crumbled feta.
Next, add the diced watermelon on top of the feta. Use enough to almost fill the jar, packing it in lightly.
Finally, finish with a generous handful of arugula at the top of each jar. This will create a beautiful contrast of colors and textures.
Before serving, evenly drizzle the prepared dressing over each jar. This ensures that every layer is infused with flavor.
When ready to enjoy, give the jar a gentle shake to mix everything together. The Watermelon Feta Arugula Salad is now ready to be devoured!

Things Worth Knowing

Balancing Flavors: Make sure to balance the sweetness of the watermelon with the saltiness of the feta.
Texture Matters: The combination of creamy feta, crunchy onion, and juicy watermelon creates a delightful mouthfeel.
Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Layering Technique: Layering your ingredients in jars not only looks nice but also helps in keeping them fresh for longer.

Recipe Notes about Watermelon Feta Arugula Salad

Even the simplest of recipes can have their nuances. Here are a few notes to ensure your Watermelon Feta Arugula Salad turns out perfectly:

Storage: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within one to two days for optimal freshness.
Freezing: This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the texture changes in the watermelon and arugula.
Pairing: Serve this salad alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also pairs well with crusty bread.
Customizations: Feel free to add nuts or seeds for added crunch or substitute the feta with a different cheese.
Serving Size: The recipe yields four servings, making it perfect for a small gathering or lunch prep.

Great Combinations for Watermelon Feta Arugula Salad

Enjoying the Watermelon Feta Arugula Salad opens up a world of pairing possibilities. Here are some delightful combinations to consider:

Grilled Chicken: This salad makes a refreshing side for grilled chicken, complementing its smoky flavors.
Fish Tacos: The salad adds a light, crisp element to rich fish tacos, enhancing the overall flavor.
Picnic Delight: Pack it in jars for a perfect picnic meal alongside sandwiches.
Light Lunch: Serve it as a light lunch option with a slice of whole-grain bread.
Seasonal Events: Perfect for summer BBQs, potlucks, and outdoor gatherings.
Fresh Herbs: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or mint for an extra flavor boost.

FAQ

Absolutely! The Watermelon Feta Arugula Salad can be prepared in advance, making it a great option for meal prep. However, to keep the arugula fresh and crunchy, I recommend storing the dressing separately and adding it just before serving. This way, the salad retains its crispness and freshness.

If you’re looking for a substitute for feta cheese, you might try goat cheese, which has a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor. For a non-dairy option, you can use a cashew cheese or a tofu-based alternative, which can mimic the texture and absorb the flavors of the salad beautifully.

The Watermelon Feta Arugula Salad as is, contains feta, which is not vegan. However, by replacing the feta with a plant-based cheese alternative, you can easily make it vegan-friendly. Just be sure to check the ingredients to ensure they align with vegan dietary practices.

The beauty of the Watermelon Feta Arugula Salad is its versatility! You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch, or toss in some herbs like mint or basil for added freshness. Additionally, diced cucumbers or bell peppers can enhance the salad’s texture and flavor profile.

Conclusion

The Watermelon Feta Arugula Salad is truly a standout dish that captures the essence of summer with its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors. It’s not just a salad; it’s an experience that brings joy to your dining table. I encourage you to try making it yourself—you’ll be amazed at how something so simple can be so delightful. Enjoy every bite!