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Fresh Watermelon Feta Mint Salad Recipe with Easy Balsamic Reduction

watermelon feta mint salad - featured image

A refreshing summer salad combining juicy watermelon, crumbly feta, fresh mint, and a tangy-sweet homemade balsamic reduction. Quick to prepare and perfect for casual gatherings or light dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups watermelon, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped or torn
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar or honey
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (optional)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste (optional)
  • Pinch of sea salt, if needed

Instructions

  1. Prepare the balsamic reduction: Pour 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon sugar or honey into a small saucepan. Set over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to dissolve the sugar. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes until it reduces by half and coats the back of a spoon with a glossy, syrupy texture. Remove from heat and let it cool.
  2. Cube the watermelon into bite-sized pieces and place in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Crumble the feta cheese over the watermelon.
  4. Roughly chop or tear the fresh mint leaves and sprinkle over the salad.
  5. Optional: Drizzle 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil over the salad. Add a pinch of sea salt if feta is not very salty and a few cracks of freshly ground black pepper.
  6. Toss everything gently to combine without crushing the watermelon cubes.
  7. Drizzle the cooled balsamic reduction over the salad just before serving, starting with about 2 tablespoons and adjusting to taste.
  8. Serve immediately for best freshness.

Notes

Let watermelon cubes drain on paper towels if watery to avoid sogginess. Make balsamic reduction ahead and store in fridge up to one week. Add balsamic reduction and olive oil just before serving to keep salad fresh. For vegan option, substitute feta with plant-based cheese or seasoned tofu.

Nutrition

Keywords: watermelon salad, feta salad, mint salad, balsamic reduction, summer salad, fresh salad, easy salad recipe, healthy salad