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Fresh Grilled Watermelon Feta Salad with Balsamic Reduction

fresh grilled watermelon feta salad - featured image
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A refreshing and easy-to-make summer salad featuring smoky grilled watermelon, creamy feta cheese, and a tangy balsamic reduction. Perfect for quick gatherings and BBQs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups watermelon, cut into 1-inch thick slices or cubes (seedless preferred)
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Sea salt, to sprinkle
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cut the watermelon into 1-inch thick slices or cubes. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. (10 minutes)
  2. Pour 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to low and simmer until the liquid reduces by half and thickens to a syrupy consistency, about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. (15 minutes)
  3. Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush watermelon slices lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until grill marks appear and the watermelon is slightly softened but still firm. Avoid overcooking. (6-8 minutes)
  4. Arrange grilled watermelon on a large serving plate or bowl. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top. Scatter chopped fresh mint leaves. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and the prepared balsamic reduction.
  5. Finish with a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Optionally, squeeze lemon juice over the salad for a fresh zing. Serve immediately or chill briefly to let flavors meld. (5 minutes)

Notes

Keep an eye on the balsamic reduction to avoid burning; stir in a teaspoon of water if it gets too thick. Grill watermelon with medium-high heat and avoid flipping repeatedly to get good char marks. Crumble feta just before serving to keep it fresh. For vegan option, substitute feta with firm tofu or vegan cheese and use maple syrup instead of balsamic vinegar for reduction.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled watermelon salad, feta salad, balsamic reduction, summer salad, easy salad recipe, BBQ side dish, fresh salad

Find it online: https://spoonette.com/fresh-grilled-watermelon-feta-salad-recipe-easy-homemade-with-balsamic-reduction/