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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 vibrant summer dish that creatively uses the often discarded watermelon rind. This salad blends the mild crunch of watermelon rind with salty feta cheese, fresh herbs, tangy lemon juice, and a touch of olive oil, creating a light, flavorful, and sustainable treat perfect for hot days.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Watermelon rind: firm, pale green part just beneath the dark green skin (about 2 cups, sliced)
  • Feta cheese: 1/2 cup, crumbled
  • Fresh herbs (mint or parsley): 1/4 cup, finely chopped
  • Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed
  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Red onion or shallots: 1/4 cup, thinly sliced
  • Salt: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste
  • Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, freshly ground
  • Optional chili flakes or fresh chili: 1/4 teaspoon or to taste

Optional Variations

  • Toasted nuts or seeds (almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds): 2 tablespoons
  • Alternative cheeses (goat cheese, halloumi): 1/2 cup, crumbled or sliced
  • Alternative herbs (basil, cilantro, dill): 1/4 cup, chopped
  • Sliced jalapeños or smoked paprika: as desired for spice
  • Firm tofu (for vegan option): 1/2 cup, marinated in lemon and herbs

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Watermelon Rind: Peel off the dark green skin from the watermelon rind, keeping the crisp, pale green flesh. Cut the rind into thin strips or bite-sized cubes. Optionally, blanch the rind in boiling water for 1-2 minutes to soften slightly while retaining crunch.
  2. Slice the Red Onion and Chop Herbs: Thinly slice the red onion or shallots. Finely chop fresh herbs such as mint or parsley. Be generous with herbs for the best aroma and flavor.
  3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the prepared watermelon rind, sliced onion, and chopped herbs. Crumble feta cheese over the top and gently toss to mix flavors evenly.
  4. Dress the Salad: Drizzle olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice over the salad. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and optional chili flakes to taste. Toss lightly to coat all ingredients with the dressing for a perfect balance of zest and creaminess.

Notes

  • Use watermelon rind as fresh as possible for maximum crunch and subtle sweetness.
  • Pat the rind dry with paper towels after chopping to keep the salad crisp and avoid excess moisture.
  • Season carefully with salt since feta cheese already adds saltiness.
  • Add fresh herbs just before serving to retain their vibrant flavor and color.
  • Chill the salad in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving to meld flavors and keep it refreshing.

Nutrition

Keywords: watermelon rind salad, feta cheese salad, summer salad, sustainable recipe, gluten free appetizer, vegetarian summer dish

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