Indulge in a symphony of flavors with our grilled watermelon and feta salad, a refreshing and unique dish that combines the sweetness of watermelon, the tanginess of feta cheese, and the aromatic freshness of mint. This delightful salad is a perfect appetizer or side dish for any occasion, offering a burst of colors and textures with every bite. Grilled watermelon takes center stage, its smoky and slightly caramelized exterior contrasting perfectly with the juicy, refreshing interior. Crumbled feta cheese adds a salty and tangy dimension, while fresh mint provides a cooling and aromatic touch. Drizzled with a simple vinaigrette dressing, this salad is a delightful harmony of sweet, savory, and refreshing flavors. For those looking for a heartier option, grilled chicken or shrimp can be added to create a complete meal. Alternatively, for a vegan twist, substitute tofu or tempeh for the feta cheese. Dive into the full recipe to discover step-by-step instructions for creating this delightful grilled watermelon and feta salad, along with additional serving suggestions and variations to suit your preferences.
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3-INGREDIENT GRILLED WATERMELON, FETA, AND TOMATO SALAD
Grilling the watermelon adds a savory depth to the fruit, giving this refreshing summer salad much more flavor than you'd imagine from this simple combination.
Provided by Katherine Sacks
Categories 3-Ingredient Recipes Summer Salad Watermelon Feta Tomato Potluck Backyard BBQ Vegetarian Wheat/Gluten-Free Grill Side
Yield 4 servings
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- Prepare a grill for medium-high heat or heat a grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high; oil grate or pan.
- Using a 2" diameter ring cutter or thin drinking glass, cut watermelon into circles; you should have 20-22 pieces (reserve scraps for another use). Season watermelon on both sides with 1/2 tsp. salt. Grill watermelon until well charred, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and set aside until cool to the touch, about 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, toss tomatoes, 1 Tbsp. oil, 1 tsp. salt, and 1/2 tsp. pepper in a large bowl.
- Layer watermelon, tomato mixture, and cheese in alternating layers on a platter, draining any extra liquid from tomatoes before using. Drizzle with oil, season with pepper, and serve.
30-MINUTE GRILLED CHICKEN THIGHS WITH WATERMELON AND FETA SALAD
A few time-saving techniques make a complete grilled chicken dinner doable in under a half hour: Grating the garlic is faster than chopping it with a knife, and adds more garlicky flavor to the dish. Massaging the marinade into the chicken works its flavors into the meat, cutting down on marinating time. And you can make the sweet-and-savory watermelon salad while the chicken marinates.
Provided by Food Network Kitchen
Time 30m
Yield 4 servings
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Prepare a grill for medium heat.
- Put the grated garlic into a large resealable bag. Add 1/4 cup oil, the lemon zest and juice, oregano and the chicken. Seal the bag tightly and use your hands to vigorously massage the marinade into the chicken, making sure that the chicken is evenly coated. Marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature.
- Meanwhile, remove the rind from the watermelon, cut the flesh into 1-inch cubes and put it in a large bowl. (You should have about 6 cups total.) Quarter the cucumber lengthwise and cut it into 1-inch pieces. Place on top of the watermelon in the mixing bowl. Cut the feta into 1/2-inch cubes, put on top of the cucumber and top with the olives. (Do not mix yet.) Set aside.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on a plate. Lightly oil the grill grates. Sprinkle the chicken liberally with salt and pepper and place the pieces skin-side down on the grill, leaving some space between the pieces. Cook until the skin is lightly charred and releases itself from the grill, about 2 minutes. Rotate the chicken about 90 degrees so that the skin won't burn and cook another 2 minutes. Flip and cook 5 minutes longer. Cover the grill and cook until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of each thigh registers 165 degrees F, about 5 more minutes. Transfer to a platter and rest for at least 5 minutes.
- While the chicken rests, brush the cut sides of the baguette halves with 2 tablespoons oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place the bread cut-side down on the grill until lightly charred and warmed through, about 2 minutes. Halve the remaining garlic clove and lightly rub the cut sides of the garlic onto the hot bread. Halve each piece of baguette.
- Scatter most of the mint over the watermelon mixture. Add the remaining 1/4 cup oil and a large pinch of salt and pepper and gently stir to combine. Divide the watermelon salad, chicken and bread among 4 large dinner plates. Garnish with the remaining mint.
GRILLED WATERMELON AND FETA SALAD
I love watermelon and feta salad, whether the watermelon is grilled or not. The sweet, juicy watermelon against the salty, creamy feta and pungent onions is a winning combination. This version introduces heat - if you serve it right after grilling the melon (it isn't a must) - and char. Throw the watermelon slices, with the rind, onto the grill after or before you've grilled your meat or fish or vegetables. Grill them on both sides until just charred, then cut away the rinds and dice up the melon for the salad.
Provided by Martha Rose Shulman
Categories dinner, lunch, quick, salads and dressings, appetizer
Time 10m
Yield Serves 4
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Place sliced onion in a bowl and cover with water and 1 teaspoon of the vinegar. Soak 5 minutes, then drain and rinse. Drain on paper towels.
- Prepare a medium-hot grill. Use 1 tablespoon of the olive oil to brush the watermelon slices lightly. Grill for about 3 minutes per side, or until charred. Remove from heat and dice. Transfer, with juice, to a large salad bowl.
- Add onions and remaining ingredients and toss together. Let sit for a few minutes or for up to an hour before serving. Toss again just before serving.
Tips:
- Choose ripe, juicy watermelon: Look for a watermelon that is heavy for its size and has a deep, resonant sound when tapped.
- Grill the watermelon over medium-high heat: This will help to caramelize the sugars in the watermelon and give it a slightly smoky flavor.
- Do not overcook the watermelon: The watermelon should be slightly charred on the outside but still have a crisp, refreshing interior.
- Use a variety of toppings: Feta cheese, arugula, mint, and balsamic vinegar are all great options. You can also add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more substantial salad.
- Serve the salad immediately: The watermelon is best when it is still warm from the grill.
Conclusion:
Grilled watermelon salad is a refreshing and flavorful summer dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The combination of sweet watermelon, salty feta cheese, and tangy balsamic vinegar is simply irresistible. So next time you're looking for a new way to enjoy watermelon, give this salad a try!
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