A salad with mint and watermelon is a refreshing and vibrant choice, especially during the warmer months. The sweetness of watermelon pairs beautifully with the aromatic freshness of mint. Here’s a simple and delightful recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cubed watermelon (seedless)
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Ingredients: Cube the watermelon and chop the fresh mint leaves. Thinly slice the red onion if you’re using it.
-
Toast the Nuts: If you’re using pine nuts or walnuts, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until they are golden and fragrant. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Remove from heat and set aside.
-
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
-
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the watermelon cubes, chopped mint, and red onion if using.
-
Add Optional Ingredients: Top the salad with crumbled feta or goat cheese and toasted nuts if desired.
-
Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
-
Serve: Enjoy the salad immediately, or chill it for a short time to let the flavors meld together.
This salad is perfect on its own or as a refreshing side dish. It pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or even as a light appetizer. You can also experiment by adding other ingredients like cucumber or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a bit of heat.