If you’re looking for a salad that bursts with vibrant flavors, refreshing textures, and a delightful contrast of sweet and savory, then this Feta and Watermelon Salad Recipe is your new go-to. It perfectly balances juicy, cooling watermelon with tangy feta cheese and a zingy dressing that ties everything together in a way that feels festive and fresh. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or as a light lunch, this salad feels like sunshine on a plate and is incredibly easy to throw together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a crucial role. From the crisp romaine providing a sturdy base, to the feta adding that creamy, salty kick, every element comes together to create an explosion of colors and tastes that is absolutely irresistible.
- 5 cups chopped fresh watermelon: Choose ripe, juicy watermelon for maximum sweetness and refreshing crunch.
- 2 (9-oz) packages romaine lettuce, chopped: Romaine offers a crisp, mildly sweet foundation that holds up well to the juicy watermelon.
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese: This adds a salty, creamy contrast that makes the salad more complex and satisfying.
- 1 cup honey roasted pecans: For a crunchy, slightly sweet texture that complements the fruit and cheese perfectly.
- ¼ cup pepper jelly: Brings a subtle spicy and sweet flavor that brightens the salad dressing.
- ¼ cup cider vinegar: Adds a tangy punch that balances the sweetness of watermelon and honey roasted pecans.
- 2 tsp sugar: Helps mellow out the acidity in the dressing and blend flavors smoothly.
- 1 Tbsp lime juice: Fresh lime juice adds brightness and a touch of citrus zing.
- ¼ tsp onion powder: Adds a savory undertone that deepens the flavor of the dressing.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients, especially the watermelon.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Adds a little heat and complexity to the overall flavor profile.
- ¼ cup olive oil: A smooth, fruity olive oil rounds out the dressing and helps coat the salad beautifully.
How to Make Feta and Watermelon Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
Start with a large bowl where you’ll mix together the chopped romaine lettuce, juicy watermelon chunks, and crumbly feta cheese. This trio forms the heart of the salad, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors that will shine through after adding the dressing.
Step 2: Whisk the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the pepper jelly, cider vinegar, sugar, lime juice, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This concoction forms the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and savory notes. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing into a creamy, flavorful finish.
Step 3: Toss and Dress the Salad
Pour the dressing over your romaine, watermelon, and feta mixture, adding just enough to coat the salad lightly but thoroughly—too much can overpower the delicate flavors. Toss gently but well to ensure every bite delivers that harmonious blend of juicy watermelon, creamy feta, and zesty dressing.
How to Serve Feta and Watermelon Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle honey roasted pecans on top just before serving to add a satisfying crunch and a touch of sweetness that complements the saltiness of the feta beautifully. You could also scatter a few torn mint leaves for a refreshing herbal pop that brings extra freshness.
Side Dishes
This salad is versatile enough to accompany grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a hearty grain bowl. It’s particularly fantastic alongside Mediterranean-inspired dishes or as a bright counterpoint to smoky, BBQ flavors during summer feasts.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try layering the components in individual clear glasses as a visually stunning parfait, alternating romaine, watermelon, feta, and pecans. Another idea is to serve the salad on a platter lined with whole slices of watermelon as a beautiful base that invites sharing and conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Feta and Watermelon Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the salad as crisp and fresh as possible, consider storing the dressing separately and tossing just before serving again.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not recommended due to the high water content of watermelon and the delicate texture of romaine and feta, which can become soggy and unappetizing.
Reheating
Since this is a cold salad, reheating is not necessary or recommended. Enjoy it chilled to savor the fresh, crisp textures and vibrant flavors at their best.
FAQs
Can I substitute the feta cheese with another type of cheese?
While feta is ideal because of its crumbly texture and salty tang, you could use goat cheese or even halloumi cubes grilled lightly for a different texture and flavor profile. Just keep in mind it will alter the classic character of the Feta and Watermelon Salad Recipe.
Is there a way to make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Simply swap the feta cheese for a plant-based cheese alternative or omit it altogether and add extra nuts or tofu for protein. The flavors from the watermelon and dressing still shine without dairy.
Can I use other types of lettuce?
Romaine lettuce is preferred for its crispness and ability to hold the juicy ingredients. However, if you want a softer texture, baby spinach or mixed greens can also work; just be aware they might wilt faster.
How spicy is the pepper jelly in the dressing?
Pepper jelly can vary in heat depending on the brand, but generally, it adds a mild kick balanced with sweetness. If you prefer less spice, you can reduce the quantity or look for a milder version.
What is the best way to cut the watermelon for this salad?
Cut the watermelon into bite-sized cubes or small chunks to ensure every forkful includes a juicy burst of flavor without being cumbersome to eat. Removing seeds before chopping makes the salad easier to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
This Feta and Watermelon Salad Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like magic on a plate—effortlessly fresh, bursting with color, and a beautiful balance of crunchy, creamy, sweet, and tangy. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate summer’s bounty or brighten up any meal, and I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Feta and Watermelon Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Feta and Watermelon Salad featuring crisp romaine lettuce, juicy watermelon, tangy feta cheese, and crunchy honey roasted pecans, all brought together with a zesty pepper jelly vinaigrette.
Ingredients
Salad
- 5 cups chopped fresh watermelon
- 2 (9-oz) packages romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 cup honey roasted pecans
Dressing
- ¼ cup pepper jelly
- ¼ cup cider vinegar
- 2 tsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp lime juice
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup olive oil
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the chopped romaine lettuce, fresh watermelon pieces, and crumbled feta cheese. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the dressing.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the pepper jelly, cider vinegar, sugar, lime juice, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Gradually whisk in the olive oil slowly to emulsify the dressing until smooth and well combined.
- Toss Salad: Pour the dressing over the romaine, watermelon, and feta mixture to your taste. Toss gently to evenly coat the salad with the dressing. Finally, sprinkle the honey roasted pecans on top just before serving for extra crunch.
Notes
- For best flavor, chill the salad ingredients before combining.
- You can substitute walnuts or almonds if pecans are unavailable.
- The dressing can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add fresh mint leaves for a bright, herbal note.
