Chilled Watermelon and Feta Salad with Mint and Toasted Pine Nuts
This chilled watermelon and feta salad is the perfect balance of sweet, salty, creamy, and crunchy. Fresh mint brings brightness, while toasted pine nuts add a buttery crunch. It’s a modern Mediterranean twist that’s perfect for warm days, elegant dinners, or a healthy snack.
⏱️ Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time (toasting nuts): 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed and chilled
3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (preferably block feta, crumbled by hand)
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, torn or thinly sliced
3 tbsp pine nuts
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp balsamic glaze (optional but recommended)
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Pinch of flaky sea salt (optional, as feta is already salty)
Instructions:
1. Toast the pine nuts:
Heat a small dry skillet over medium heat.
Add pine nuts and toast, stirring frequently, for about 3–4 minutes or until golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
2. Prep the watermelon:
Cube the watermelon into bite-sized pieces and chill in the fridge if not already cold.
3. Assemble the salad:
In a large bowl or serving platter, arrange the chilled watermelon cubes.
Sprinkle the crumbled feta evenly over the top.
Add the torn or sliced mint leaves.
4. Add pine nuts and dressing:
Scatter the toasted pine nuts over the salad.
Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and a touch of balsamic glaze if using.
5. Finish and serve:
Season with freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of flaky sea salt if desired.
Serve immediately while cold and refreshing.
Notes & Tips:
Watermelon Tip: Use a sweet, firm watermelon for best results. If you prep it ahead, drain any extra juice before assembling.
Cheese Tip: Use high-quality Greek feta in brine for best texture and flavor.
Make Ahead: You can cube the watermelon and toast pine nuts ahead, but assemble just before serving for best texture.
Mint Tip: Tear the mint with your hands rather than chopping it to prevent bruising and bitterness.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes! Swap the feta with a plant-based feta-style cheese or marinated tofu cubes.
Q: Can I use other nuts?
A: Definitely — try slivered almonds or chopped pistachios as alternatives.
Q: Can I add greens?
A: Yes! Arugula or baby spinach makes a great base if you want to turn it into more of a leafy salad.
Q: How long will leftovers last?
A: Best eaten fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day. The watermelon will release juice, so drain before eating.
️ Nutritional Information
Calories: 220 kcal
Protein: 6 g
Fat: 14 g
Carbohydrates: 17 g
Fiber: 1.5 g
Sugar: 14 g
Sodium: 380 mg
Calcium: 180 mg
Vitamin C: 12% DV