Spicy Watermelon Feta Salad

The oft-obligatory appearance of watermelon at picnics will become one that is repeatedly requested by guests when you show up with this jazzy Jalapeno Watermelon Feta Salad. 

Watermelon is one of those fruits that makes the obligatory appearance at summertime gatherings. No doubt it’s great for pairing with grilled goods like hamburgers and brats, providing a refreshingly sweet reprieve from carbs and proteins. But on its lonesome, it doesn’t exactly arouse excitement. 

What’s unfortunate about watermelon is that it’s often served as-is. I say "unfortunate" because watermelon is more versatile than people tend to think. The addition of a few carefully chosen ingredients to a bowl of diced watermelon will allow you to create one stellar salad. Jalapeno, watermelon, and feta make one easy and delicious salad.

What's in Spicy Watermelon Feta Salad?

• Watermelon - of course!
• Jalapeno
• Chives
• Lime zest and juice
• Feta
• Tabasco hot sauce
• Honey
• Salt (to taste)

I’ll happily devour a bowlful of plain old watermelon, but its mellow sweetness makes it perfect for pairing with acidic, salty, and spicy flavors, like in this Jalapeno Watermelon Salad. Jalapenos and Tabasco sauce bring the heat, lime juice, and lime zest add brightness, and feta cheese brings a savory edge. 

How do you make Spicy Watermelon Feta Salad?

To make this Jalapeno Watermelon Salad, follow these simple instructions:

1. Add lime juice, Tabasco sauce, and honey to a bowl. Whisk to combine.
2. Add watermelon, jalapeno, chives, and lime zest to the bowl and gently stir, folding to combine.
3. Add feta cheese and a pinch of salt. Gently stir, folding until just combined.
4. Serve immediately.
5. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator in a covered container. Use within 24 hours.

Just look at it. It’s pretty, it’s pink, it’s unassuming. But the first bite reveals a complexity that belies its appearance. 

Why is Watermelon Feta Salad a thing?

When I first heard of Watermelon and Feta Salad my immediate reaction was that the fruit/cheese combo sounded odd. But the more I thought about it, the more it made sense. Ever tried salt on watermelon? It's awesome! The salt highlights the sweetness of the fruit. Here, the salty feta cheese highlights the sweetness of the fruit. It's a beautiful pairing, that salty-sweet combo of watermelon and feta in a salad.

Can you make Spicy Watermelon Feta Salad ahead of time?

This salad is 100% best prepared immediately before serving. You can prepare the watermelon, jalapeno, and chives in advance. Just keep each ingredient in separate containers in the refrigerator until ready to serve. A fine dice on the jalapenos is nice as is your best attempt to cut the watermelon into relatively uniform squares. And while you’re in preparation mode, whip up the dressing ahead of time and refrigerate as well. 

For best results, just leave yourself a few minutes beforehand to quickly prepare this Jalapeno Watermelon Salad.

This recipe was inspired by Food & Wine’s Watermelon Salad with Feta and Mint.

If you like this, I think you’ll also like:

• Jalapeno Cucumber Sandwiches
• Not Your (Grand)Mother’s Broccoli Salad
• Chipotle Tuna Salad Sandwiches
• Corny Quinoa Salad with Jalapeno Lime Vinaigrette

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