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Watermelon Rind Salad with Feta

Watermelon Rind Salad with Feta
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Watermelon Rind Salad with Feta is a refreshing and light summer dish that creatively uses the often discarded watermelon rind. Paired with salty feta cheese and vibrant fresh mint, this salad offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Easy to prepare and hydrating, it’s a nutritious option that helps reduce food waste while providing a unique and colorful addition to your summer meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups watermelon rind, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Additions

  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onions
  • 1/4 cup toasted nuts (almonds or walnuts)
  • Pinch of chili flakes or dash of cayenne pepper (for spice)
  • Additional herbs like basil or cilantro (to substitute mint)
  • Orange segments or splash of lime juice (for citrus boost)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Watermelon Rind: Peel away the tough green outer skin from the watermelon rind to expose the white part. Slice the white rind thinly into bite-sized strips or cubes, giving a fresh crunch with subtle sweetness.
  2. Crumble the Feta Cheese: Gently crumble the feta cheese into small pieces to ensure even distribution of creamy, salty bursts throughout the salad.
  3. Chop Fresh Herbs: Finely chop fresh mint leaves to add herbal brightness and refreshing aroma that balances the mild rind and tangy feta.
  4. Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. This dressing ties all the flavors together harmoniously with acidity and richness.
  5. Combine and Toss: In a large bowl, place the sliced watermelon rind, crumbled feta, chopped mint, and any optional ingredients like red onions or toasted nuts. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  6. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 20 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and enhance the refreshing quality.

Notes

  • Remove the tough outer skin carefully with a sharp knife to avoid bitter green parts.
  • Salt the rind lightly and let it rest before rinsing to soften and reduce moisture.
  • Use fresh, high-quality feta cheese for best flavor.
  • Adjust the lemon juice gradually to balance acidity without overpowering the other flavors.
  • Prepare the salad ahead of time and chill for better taste.
  • Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
  • Enjoy the salad cold or at room temperature; avoid reheating.

Nutrition

Keywords: Watermelon Rind Salad, Feta Salad, Summer Salad, Refreshing Salad, Healthy Salad, No-Cook Salad, Gluten Free, Food Waste Reduction

Find it online: https://mydishez.com/watermelon-rind-salad-with-feta/