Watermelon basil salad is the ultimate summer dish, combining freshness and flavor in the simplest way possible. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a stunning salad that’s perfect for any occasion, leaving your guests and your taste buds satisfied.
Refreshing Watermelon Basil Salad: A Taste of Summer
As summer approaches, it’s the perfect time to indulge in light and refreshing salads. One of my all-time favorites is Watermelon Basil Salad, inspired by a charming dish from Elizabeth on 37th Restaurant in Savannah, Georgia. This quick and easy salad brings together the crispness of lettuce, the sweetness of watermelon, and the tangy flavor of feta cheese, making it a go-to option for warm-weather meals.
Watermelon Basil Salad: Quick Preparation for Busy Days
One of the best aspects of the Watermelon Basil Salad is how quickly you can whip it up. Within just ten minutes, you can have a beautiful salad ready to serve. Simply wash and tear the lettuce, slice the watermelon, and blend the dressing—it’s that straightforward! This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Customizable Ingredients
While the basic ingredients work harmoniously together, you can easily customize this salad to suit your taste. For instance, if you’re not a fan of feta, consider replacing it with goat cheese or another cheese or leaving it out entirely for a dairy-free option. Similarly, feel free to experiment with different herbs or even add nuts for an extra crunch. Personalizing this salad allows you to make it uniquely yours.
Watermelon Basil Salad: A Visual Delight
Not only does this salad taste amazing, but it also looks stunning on the plate. The vibrant green and red colors, along with the herb garnish, create a visual appeal that is hard to resist. Whether you serve it at a barbecue, picnic, or elegant dinner party, this salad will surely be a hit!
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Watermelon Basil Salad
Equipment
- small blender or immersion blender
Ingredients
Salad Dressing Ingredients
- â…“ cup white wine vinegar
- â…“ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ¼ teaspoon dried basil flakes
- 1 pinch of black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Salad Ingredients
- 1 head green leaf lettuce
- 1 head red leaf lettuce
- 8 5-inch watermelon spears
- 2 tablespoons feta cheese, crumbled
- fresh basil sprigs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Salad Dressing Directions
- Place all salad dressing ingredients in a food processor (or use an immersion blender). Blend well. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
Salad Instructions
- Wash and tear the lettuce. Break into smaller pieces and place on the salad plates.
- Place two watermelon spears on top of the lettuce.
- Place 2-3 tablespoons of salad dressing on each salad.
- Sprinkle feta cheese on each salad. Garnish with fresh basil sprigs.