Spiced Watermelon and Feta Salad
Nothing quite beats the combination of watermelon and feta. The refreshing sweetness from the watermelon perfectly counters the saltiness from the feta. This combination is always a summer staple in our house. Watermelon, feta and pita for breakfast – lunch – dinner – dessert – it was always a yes!
Whenever I talk about watermelon, I instantly think of my Jido William (dad’s father). As you know, he was a lover of sweets and food and had a joyful round belly to show for it. He used to tell me he swallowed a watermelon whole, and that’s how he got his belly. It was one of those things that I did not completely believe or disbelieve growing up. Kind of like my uncle who would hand me gum every time he saw me because he said he had a gum factory in his pocket. Being a kid- the possibilities were only limited by your imagination!
Well, I reimagined feta and watermelon into this salad. Building on these naturally delightful flavors, this salad has peppery arugula, cumin for an earthy warm spice, coriander and lemon for some citrus and brightness, refreshing mint and a touch of honey and red onion for a little something extra.
Watermelon makes me happy because it reminds me of my Jido. This salad is a celebration of flavors and burst with freshness. I hope it makes you as it happy it makes me. If you have any similar childhood memories please share!
Spiced Watermelon and Feta Salad
Ingredients
- 5 cups cubed watermelon
- 4 cups arugula
- 2 lemons, juiced
- ¾ cup olive oil
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp coriander
- ½ tsp salt
- 1/4 cup red onions, diced
- ¼ cup chopped mint
- ½ tbsp honey
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- ½ cup feta, crumbled
Instructions
- In a medium sized bowl or mason jar whisk/shake together lemon juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, cumin, coriander, salt, honey, red onion and mint.
- Place dressing on watermelon. If time allows, place the watermelon in the fridge for an hour or so to allow the watermelon to marinate in the dressing.
- When ready to serve, add arugula and sprinkle in feta. Mix until just combined.
