Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your summer dining experience! This Watermelon and Feta Salad with Marinated Olives and Preserved Lemon is not just a recipe—it's a flavor explosion that combines the sweet juiciness of watermelon, the tangy richness of feta, and the exotic punch of preserved lemon. Imagine a dish so refreshing it will make your taste buds dance and your guests beg for the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups watermelon, cubed
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup preserved lemon, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Cut the watermelon into bite-sized cubes, ensuring to remove any seeds if necessary. Place the cubed watermelon in a large mixing bowl.
- Next, crumble the feta cheese into small pieces. You can use your fingers or a fork to achieve a nice crumble. Add the crumbled feta to the bowl with the watermelon.
- Take the olives and slice them if they are not already sliced. Add the sliced olives to the mixing bowl with the watermelon and feta.
- Prepare the preserved lemon by dicing it into small pieces. Make sure to remove any seeds. Add the diced preserved lemon to the bowl.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the ingredients in the bowl. This will help to combine the flavors and add richness to the salad.
- Gently toss all the ingredients together using a spatula or large spoon. Be careful not to break the watermelon or feta too much; you want the salad to have a nice texture.
- Once everything is well combined, taste the salad and adjust seasoning if necessary. You may want to add a pinch of salt or pepper, but be cautious as the feta and olives are already salty.
- Transfer the salad to a serving dish or individual bowls. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing Watermelon and Feta Salad with Marinated Olives and Preserved Lemon as a delightful side dish or light meal!
Tips
- Choose a ripe, sweet watermelon for the best flavor profile. Look for a melon with a deep, hollow sound when tapped.
- Use high-quality feta cheese—preferably a creamy, authentic Greek variety for the most authentic taste.
- When dicing preserved lemon, remove the pulp and focus on the rind for a more concentrated, intense flavor.
- Chill your ingredients beforehand to ensure the salad is served at the perfect cool temperature.
- For an extra flavor boost, let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes after mixing to allow the ingredients to marinate slightly.
- Use fresh mint leaves as a garnish—they add a bright, aromatic touch that elevates the entire dish.
- Serve immediately after preparing to maintain the crisp texture of the watermelon and the freshness of the ingredients.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
