Fresh Watermelon Feta Mint Salad Recipe with Easy Balsamic Reduction
A refreshing summer salad combining juicy watermelon, salty feta, fresh mint, and a tangy-sweet balsamic reduction. Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for gatherings or a light meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups watermelon, cubed (seedless if possible)
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped or torn
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Fresh cracked black pepper (optional)
- Toasted pine nuts or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the balsamic reduction: Pour 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon honey into a medium saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes until reduced by half and syrupy. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Cube the watermelon into roughly 1-inch pieces and place in a large mixing bowl.
- Crumble the feta cheese into the bowl with the watermelon.
- Roughly chop or tear fresh mint leaves and add to the bowl.
- If using, thinly slice red onion and add to the mix.
- Gently toss the watermelon, feta, mint, and onion together, being careful not to break up the feta too much.
- Add fresh cracked black pepper if desired.
- Drizzle the cooled balsamic reduction over the salad just before serving.
- Serve immediately for best freshness and texture.
Notes
Use ripe but firm watermelon for best texture. Let balsamic reduction cool completely before drizzling to avoid wilting mint and softening watermelon. Store balsamic reduction separately if prepping ahead to prevent sogginess. Non-stick pan recommended for reduction to prevent burning. Can substitute dairy-free feta for vegan option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup per serv
- Calories: 150180
- Sugar: 1518
- Sodium: 300400
- Fat: 79
- Saturated Fat: 34
- Carbohydrates: 1822
- Fiber: 12
- Protein: 68
Keywords: watermelon salad, feta salad, mint salad, balsamic reduction, summer salad, easy salad recipe, refreshing salad