Watermelon feta salad

 

 

This is very easy to make and is a great addition to a summer potluck or BBQ line-up.  I like packing it in my lunch and taking it to work.   This is a Paula Dean recipe.

Ingredients

·         1 (5 lb) watermelon

·         1 sweet onion (optional)

·         ¼ cup red wine vinegar

·         Salt and pepper to taste

·         ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

·         2 tbsp chopped fresh mint

·         1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled

·         6 whole mint springs

Instructions

1.       Cut the flesh from the melon and cut into bite size pieces, removing and discarding the seeds, and set aside. Peel and slice the onion into rings.

2.       In a small bowl, combine the vinegar, salt, pepper, and whisk until salt is dissolved.  Slowly whisk in the olive oil, a few drops at a time.  Add in the chopped mint, taste and adjust seasonings.

3.       In a large bowl, combine the melon, onion and feta.  Pour the dressing over the melon mixture and toss gently until everything is coated and evenly mixed.  Garnish with mint springs.

Options

 * Use the watermelon shell as your bowl like shown in the picture
 * Use a balsamic vinegar based salad dressing instead of making the dressing from scratch if you are in a rush (approximately 1/2 cup).