Imagine biting into a refreshing, vibrant salad that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors—welcome to the Watermelon Basil Salad with Goat Cheese! This delightful dish is not just a feast for the eyes, but a culinary experience that will transport your taste buds straight to summer picnics and sun-soaked afternoons. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a mere 10 minutes of prep time, you can create a stunning salad that impresses at any gathering. Ready to elevate your salad game? Let’s dive into this quick and easy recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups watermelon, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, torn
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the watermelon by washing thoroughly and cutting into uniform 1-inch cubes. Ensure cubes are bite-sized and placed in a large mixing bowl.
- Gently wash fresh basil leaves and pat dry with paper towels. Tear the basil leaves into smaller pieces by hand to release their aromatic oils.
- Crumble the goat cheese into small, irregular pieces using your fingers or a fork. Keep the cheese crumbles chilled until ready to use.
- Add the torn basil leaves to the watermelon cubes and gently toss to distribute evenly.
- Sprinkle a small pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper over the watermelon and basil mixture to enhance the flavors.
- Carefully distribute the crumbled goat cheese over the salad, allowing some pieces to rest on top of the watermelon.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze in a zigzag pattern across the salad, ensuring even coverage.
- For best flavor, chill the salad for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow ingredients to marinate slightly.
- Serve immediately in chilled bowls, garnishing with additional fresh basil leaves if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Watermelon: Select a ripe watermelon that feels heavy for its size and has a uniform shape. Look for a creamy yellow spot on the rind, which indicates ripeness.
- Basil Freshness: Use fresh basil for the best flavor. If you can, pick it straight from your garden or a local market. The aroma of freshly torn basil elevates the salad immensely.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill for 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and enhances the overall taste.
- Goat Cheese Alternatives: If goat cheese isn’t your favorite, feel free to substitute with feta or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
- Balsamic Glaze: For an extra touch of elegance, make your own balsamic reduction by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens, or purchase a high-quality glaze for convenience.
- Add Crunch: Consider adding a handful of toasted nuts, such as pistachios or walnuts, for an added crunch and depth of flavor.
- Presentation Matters: Serve in chilled bowls and garnish with additional basil leaves or a sprinkle of extra goat cheese to make your salad visually stunning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
