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Fresh Watermelon Feta Mint Salad Recipe with Easy Balsamic Reduction

watermelon feta mint salad - featured image

A refreshingly light summer salad combining juicy watermelon, salty feta, fresh mint, and a tangy balsamic reduction for a perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups watermelon, cubed (ripe, seedless)
  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cut the watermelon into roughly 1-inch cubes, removing any seeds. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  2. In a medium saucepan, pour 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar and add 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup if using. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reduces by half and becomes syrupy (about 8-10 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. Add the crumbled feta and chopped mint leaves to the watermelon cubes. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
  4. Toss gently using a large spoon or your hands to mix everything together carefully, so the watermelon doesn’t get mushy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  5. Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic reduction over the salad.
  6. Serve immediately. If refrigerating, keep the balsamic reduction separate until serving to prevent sogginess.

Notes

If feta is too salty, rinse briefly under cold water and pat dry before adding. To save time, skip the balsamic reduction and drizzle balsamic vinegar instead, though the reduction adds richer flavor. Keep balsamic reduction low and slow to avoid burning. Toss watermelon gently to avoid mushiness. For vegan version, substitute feta with plant-based cheese or marinated tofu and use maple syrup instead of honey.

Nutrition

Keywords: watermelon salad, feta salad, mint salad, balsamic reduction, summer salad, easy salad, refreshing salad, vegan option