A Refreshing Summer Delight
Prepare to be amazed by the delightful combination of watermelon and tomatoes in this refreshing salad. With the addition of feta, shallots, and basil, this salad is taken to a whole new level. The vibrant colors and flavors make it a perfect addition to any summer spread. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, taking only 20 minutes to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a cookout or simply enjoying a relaxing day, this watermelon and tomato salad will surely steal the show.
The Perfect Duo: Watermelon and Tomatoes
Watermelon and tomatoes are a match made in heaven when it comes to salads. The juicy sweetness of watermelon perfectly balances the tanginess of tomatoes. This power duo not only tastes amazing but also offers a variety of health benefits. Both watermelon and tomatoes are packed with essential nutrients and antioxidants that are good for your heart and may help reduce the risk of cancer.
Ingredients that Make a Difference
To create this delicious salad, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Watermelon: This summer fruit is not only refreshing but also rich in vitamin C and vitamin A. You can either cube it or use a melon baller for a fun twist.
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Tomatoes: Choose your favorite variety of cherry or grape tomatoes. Their vibrant colors will add a pop of freshness to the salad.
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Feta: This creamy and salty cheese creates a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the watermelon. Vegans can easily swap it out for their favorite vegan feta cheese.
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Basil: Fresh basil adds an herbaceous touch to each bite. For a twist, you can also use fresh torn mint leaves.
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Vinegar: Champagne vinegar is recommended for its mild acidity, but you can also use white wine vinegar or white balsamic vinegar as alternatives.
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Coriander: This floral spice brings a burst of citrusy and nutty flavors to the salad, balancing out the sweetness.
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Shallots: Thinly sliced shallots add a subtle bite and can be softened by letting them sit in the dressing for at least 10 minutes.
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Honey: To temper the acidity of the vinegar, a touch of sweetness from honey works wonders. Maple syrup is a great vegan alternative.
How to Make Watermelon Tomato Salad
Creating this vibrant salad is as easy as 1-2-3. Here’s what you need to do:
Step 1: Mix Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, honey, coriander, salt, and pepper. Then, stir in the shallots and let them sit in the dressing for at least 10 minutes.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
Add the watermelon and tomatoes to the dressing and gently toss them until coated. Finally, sprinkle in the feta and fresh basil, giving it a final toss.
Best Pairings for Watermelon Salad
This refreshing watermelon and tomato salad pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes. Here are a few suggestions:
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Tofu and Peach Skewers: Elevate your skewers with a sweet sesame glaze.
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Greek-Marinated Shrimp Skewers: Whether grilled or cooked on the stovetop, the flavors will be irresistible.
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Salmon Burgers: Top them off with a lemon-caper sauce and slaw for a mouthwatering treat.
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Chipotle Black Bean Burgers: These hearty burgers can handle the grill with ease.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
You can prepare the watermelon basil salad up to 4 hours in advance. Just remember to add the basil and feta right before serving for optimal freshness. As for storage, this salad is best enjoyed within a few hours after being fully dressed and assembled.
More Delicious Summer Salad Ideas
If you’re in the mood for more refreshing salads, here are some top-rated recipes to try:
Peach and Corn Quinoa Salad with Cilantro Ranch
Creamy Macaroni Salad with Corn and Arugula
Fiesta Avocado Corn Salad
Cucumber Avocado Salad
Join the Family Cuisine Experience
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Remember, fresh and nutritious salads like this watermelon and tomato salad are a fantastic way to start enjoying the bounty of summer. So grab your ingredients, get creative, and savor the flavors of this mouthwatering salad. Bon appétit!
