Print

Fresh Grilled Watermelon Arugula Salad with Feta

fresh grilled watermelon arugula salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A refreshing summer salad featuring smoky grilled watermelon, peppery arugula, and creamy feta cheese, perfect for BBQs and quick meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups watermelon, cut into 1-inch thick slices (seedless preferred)
  • 4 cups fresh arugula (baby arugula works great)
  • 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling and grilling)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
  • Small handful fresh mint leaves, torn
  • Sea salt and cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
  2. Cut the watermelon into 1-inch thick slices, trim off the rind, and cut into roughly 2-inch cubes or triangles.
  3. Brush the watermelon pieces lightly with 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil.
  4. Grill the watermelon pieces for about 2-3 minutes per side until grill marks and slight caramelization appear but the pieces remain firm.
  5. While grilling, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil with fresh lemon juice, a pinch of sea salt, and cracked black pepper in a small bowl to make the dressing.
  6. In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh arugula and torn mint leaves. Toss gently with half the dressing to coat evenly.
  7. Add the grilled watermelon pieces to the bowl, followed by the crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle the remaining dressing over the top and toss gently again to combine.
  8. Optionally, drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad just before serving.
  9. Season the salad with additional salt and pepper if needed and serve immediately.

Notes

Use firm, fresh watermelon for best grilling results. Avoid overcrowding the grill to get even caramelization. Lightly oil grill grates to prevent sticking. Do not over-toss salad after adding feta to avoid crumbling. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor. For vegan option, omit feta and add toasted nuts.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled watermelon salad, arugula salad, summer salad, feta cheese salad, BBQ side dish, fresh salad, easy salad recipe

Find it online: https://lucastable.com/fresh-grilled-watermelon-arugula-salad-with-feta-perfect-for-summer-bbqs/