As the days grow longer and warmer, I often find myself on the hunt for refreshing dishes that make summer feel even brighter. That’s when I stumbled upon the delightful combination of juicy watermelon and creamy feta—a pairing that isn’t just surprising, but utterly irresistible. This Nigella Watermelon and Feta Salad has quickly become a staple in my kitchen. Each bite bursts with flavor, showcasing the sweetness of ripe watermelon balanced by the salty richness of feta, accented with vibrant herbs.
Perfect for picnics or a light lunch, this salad embodies the essence of summer meals: quick to prepare and packed with freshness. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply looking to escape the heat with a delicious, low-calorie treat, this dish will impress without consuming your afternoon. So, grab your knife and let’s whip up a tantalizing salad that captures the spirit of the season!
Why is Nigella Watermelon and Feta Salad Perfect?
Perfectly Refreshing: This salad is a delightful antidote to the summer heat, combining juicy watermelon and creamy feta for an incredible flavor burst.
Quick to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dish that’s ready in minutes—a true timesaver for busy summer days.
Flavor Harmony: The contrast of sweet and salty creates a balance that keeps your taste buds dancing, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Versatile Option: Serve it as a light appetizer, side dish, or add protein for a hearty meal; it adapts effortlessly to your dining needs.
Nutritionally Smart: At only 98 calories per serving, you can indulge guilt-free, perfect for anyone seeking a healthy, fulfilling option as part of their summer meals.
Nigella Watermelon and Feta Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
• 1 small red onion – Provides sharpness that mellows with lime juice; soak in lime juice for 10 minutes to reduce raw flavor.
• Juice of 4 limes – Adds tartness and enhances overall flavor; fresh lime is essential for the best taste.
• 1.5 kg watermelon – The star ingredient, offering sweetness and juiciness; use fresh-cut watermelon for optimal flavor.
• 250g feta cheese – Contributes creaminess and saltiness; break into rough chunks for texture—avoid crumbling too finely.
• 1 bunch parsley – Adds freshness and a slight crunch; both leaves and tender stalks can be used.
• 1 bunch mint, chopped – Essential for aroma and flavor; fresh mint is highly recommended.
• 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil – Ties all ingredients together; use high-quality olive oil for best results.
• 100g pitted black olives – Offers a briny note; optional if looking to reduce saltiness.
• Black pepper – Enhances flavor; season to taste.
Expert Tips
• For an extra zing, consider adding a sprinkle of chili flakes for a surprising kick!
• Feel free to swap feta with vegan feta or marinated tofu if you’re aiming for a dairy-free version of the Nigella Watermelon and Feta Salad.
How to Make Nigella Watermelon and Feta Salad
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Soak the Onion: Slice the red onion into thin half-moons and soak in lime juice for at least 10 minutes. This mellows the sharpness and enhances the overall flavor.
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Cube the Watermelon: Cut the watermelon into bite-sized cubes, making sure to remove any seeds. The more colorful your cubes, the more inviting the salad!
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Prepare the Feta: Crumble the feta into rough chunks and place it in a large bowl with the watermelon. This creates a delightful contrast in textures.
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Add Fresh Herbs: Tear the parsley and add it to the mix, along with the chopped mint and optional olives for added depth of flavor.
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Drizzle the Olive Oil: Pour the extra virgin olive oil over the salad and gently mix it all together. Take care not to mash the feta; we want to keep those lovely chunks!
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Combine the Onions: Add the marinated onions along with all the lime juice. Season the salad with black pepper and adjust lime to taste.
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Chill and Serve: For maximum freshness, chill the salad for 10-15 minutes before serving, or enjoy it immediately for a refreshing experience.
Optional: Garnish with extra mint leaves or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a burst of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Nigella Watermelon and Feta Salad
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Pat Watermelon Dry: To avoid a watery salad, gently pat the watermelon cubes with a clean towel before mixing.
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Gentle Mixing: Combine the ingredients carefully, folding in the feta last. This prevents the feta from crumbling too much and keeps that lovely texture intact.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs and lime juice for the best flavor in your Nigella Watermelon and Feta Salad. Aging ingredients can dull the vibrant taste.
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Taste as You Go: Adjust lime juice and seasonings throughout the mixing process. Everyone’s palate is different, so tailor it to suit your taste!
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Chill for Flavor: For the most refreshing taste, allow the salad to chill for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps meld the flavors beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
These Nigella Watermelon and Feta Salad make-ahead options are perfect for busy summer days! You can prepare the onion and lime juice mixture up to 24 hours in advance by soaking the sliced onion in lime juice to mellow its flavor. Additionally, chop the watermelon and store it separately, in an airtight container in the refrigerator, for up to 3 days—this keeps the watermelon fresh and juicy. When ready to enjoy, combine all ingredients just before serving to maintain the salad’s crispness. Remember to gently fold in the feta and herbs right before serving to ensure the textures remain delightful. Planning ahead has never been easier!
Nigella Watermelon and Feta Salad Variations
Customize your salad with these exciting twists that will elevate your summer dish to new heights of flavor and texture!
- Dairy-Free: Swap feta cheese with vegan feta or marinated tofu for a creamy texture without dairy.
- Cucumber Crunch: Add diced cucumber for extra crunch and a refreshing twist that complements the watermelon beautifully.
- Olive Alternative: Replace black olives with capers for a zesty change in flavor and a delightful briny bite.
- Nutty Add-in: Toss in a handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a rich, nutty essence and extra crunch.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle chili flakes or diced jalapeños for a fiery touch that pairs wonderfully with sweet watermelon.
- Herb Medley: Mix in fresh basil or cilantro in addition to mint and parsley for a vibrant herb profile that sings summer!
- Fruity Burst: Incorporate diced mango or strawberries for a colorful, sweet addition that adds a delightful surprise to each bite.
- Balsamic Drizzle: Drizzle balsamic reduction over the top just before serving for a sweet-tangy finish that makes flavors pop.
With these variations, you can tailor your Nigella Watermelon and Feta Salad to suit any palate or occasion!
How to Store and Freeze Nigella Watermelon and Feta Salad
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Room Temperature: It’s best to enjoy this salad fresh; if left out, do not exceed 2 hours to ensure food safety.
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Fridge: Store any leftovers in a sealed container for up to 2 days. Keep in mind the salad may soften as the watermelon releases moisture.
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Freezer: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of watermelon and feta will degrade, resulting in a watery and unappealing dish upon thawing.
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Reheating: This salad is best served cold and shouldn’t be reheated, so enjoy it fresh from the fridge for the ultimate refreshing experience!
What to Serve with Nigella Watermelon and Feta Salad?
As you prepare to delight in this colorful salad, consider these complementary pairings to elevate your summer meal.
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Grilled Chicken: This juicy protein adds a savory contrast that brings out the fresh flavors in the salad. Perfect for BBQ nights!
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Lemon Herb Couscous: Fluffy and zesty couscous makes a light, wholesome side that beautifully balances the creaminess of feta.
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Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on crisp bread pairs wonderfully, offering a rich texture that complements the salad’s refreshing crunch.
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Pita Chips: Serve with a side of crunchy pita chips for the perfect dipper; they’re excellent for swapping between this salad and your favorite hummus.
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Chilled Rosé Wine: A glass of chilled rosé makes an ideal pairing, enhancing the meal with its fruity notes and refreshing finish.
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Fruit Sorbet: End your meal on a sweet note! A scoop of fruit sorbet cools you down and complements the salad’s vibrant flavors.
These pairings not only enhance the experience but also create a delightful summer spread that everyone will love!
Nigella Watermelon and Feta Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I select the perfect watermelon?
Absolutely! Look for a watermelon that feels heavy for its size, indicating it’s full of water. The skin should be dull, not shiny, with a creamy yellow spot where it rested on the ground. Avoid any with dark spots all over as these can indicate overripeness.
How should I store leftover Nigella Watermelon and Feta Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, be aware that the salad may soften as the watermelon releases moisture. To keep it fresh, you might want to assemble the salad just before serving if you anticipate having leftovers.
Can I freeze leftover watermelon and feta salad?
Freezing is not recommended for this salad. The texture will degrade upon thawing, creating a mushy and watery dish. Instead, I suggest enjoying it fresh or sharing it with friends to avoid leftovers!
What if my feta cheese crumbles too finely?
If your feta crumbles too finely, don’t worry! Combine all other ingredients first and then gently fold in the feta at the end. This helps maintain some chunkiness and everyone still enjoys those creamy bites!
Are there any dietary considerations for this salad?
Yes! This Nigella Watermelon and Feta Salad is gluten-free and vegetarian. If you’re catering to a dairy-free diet, consider swapping feta cheese for vegan feta or marinated tofu. Also, always check labels to avoid any allergens related to olives.
How do I know if my red onion is still good?
Look for onions that are firm and free of dark spots or sprouting. If it has a strong smell, is soft, or has visible mold, it’s best to discard it. Properly stored, red onion can last in your pantry for several weeks.
Nigella Watermelon and Feta Salad That Screams Summer Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice the red onion into thin half-moons and soak in lime juice for at least 10 minutes.
- Cut the watermelon into bite-sized cubes, removing any seeds.
- Crumble the feta into rough chunks and place in a large bowl with the watermelon.
- Tear the parsley and add it to the mix, along with the chopped mint and optional olives.
- Pour the extra virgin olive oil over the salad and gently mix it together.
- Add the marinated onions along with all the lime juice, and season with black pepper.
- Chill the salad for 10-15 minutes before serving, or enjoy immediately.