Watermelon Basil Salad Recipe

As the sun intensifies and days stretch longer, cravings shift towards light, vibrant flavors. That's where the Watermelon Basil Salad steps in, a symphony of sweetness, peppery freshness, and a hint of tang that dances on your palate. Not only is this salad a culinary delight, but it's also a nutritional powerhouse, packing vitamins and minerals with every bite. So, grab your ingredients, embrace the summer spirit, and let's whip up a salad that's as delicious as it is good for you!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed seedless watermelon
• 1 cup packed fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Chop and Toss: Begin by slicing the watermelon into bite-sized cubes. In a large bowl, gently toss the watermelon with the chopped basil and sliced red onion.
2. Dress to Impress: In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the watermelon mixture and toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
3. Feta Finale: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad for a delightful salty contrast. You can also substitute diced mozzarella or goat cheese for variety.
4. Chill and Serve: The salad should be placed in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes in order to allow the flavors to blend together. Serve chilled and enjoy the refreshing burst of summer in every bite!

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 8 grams
• Cholesterol: 15 milligrams
• Sodium: 130 milligrams
• Carbohydrates: 18 grams
• Fiber: 1 gram
• Sugar: 15 grams
• Protein: 4 grams

Tips for a Stellar Salad:

• Pick the Perfect Watermelon: Choose a watermelon that feels heavy for its size and has a bright yellow spot on the bottom. Ripe watermelon yields to gentle pressure and sounds hollow when thumped.
• Basil Bonanza: Don't be shy with the basil! Its peppery notes provide a perfect counterpoint to the sweetness of the watermelon. For a twist, try using mint or tarragon instead.
• Nuts About Flavor: Add a touch of crunch with toasted walnuts, pistachios, or pine nuts. They'll add richness and textural contrast to the salad.
• Spicy Spark: If you like a bit of heat, crumble some chili flakes or chopped jalapeno into the dressing.
• Go Gourmet: Elevate your salad by adding slices of avocado, grilled halloumi cheese, or prosciutto for a more substantial meal.

Conclusion:

The Watermelon Basil Salad is a testament to the beauty of simplicity. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a light dressing, you can create a summer staple that's both satisfying and delightful. So, ditch the heavy meals and embrace the season's bounty with this vibrant salad.