Cool girl Checkerboard Salad: Feta & Watermelon
A Summer Salad but very cool
Imagine a hot summer day, the sun beaming down, and the need for something cool, refreshing, and utterly delightful. Enter the Feta & Watermelon Checkerboard Salad—a visual feast that’s as stunning as it is delicious. This dish transforms two summer staples into a sophisticated yet playful centerpiece, perfect for your next gathering or a chic backyard soirée.
Photo by Maggie Eyster
The Art of Assembly
The secret to this salad’s allure lies in its precise cubing and the alternating pattern of juicy watermelon and creamy feta, creating a striking checkerboard effect. It's a dish where geometry meets gastronomy, and the results are as mouthwatering as they are mesmerizing. Each bite is a harmonious blend of sweet and savory, with the salty feta balancing the watermelon’s natural sweetness.
Dijon Basil Oil Dressing: The Perfect Pairing
To elevate the flavors further, this salad is paired with a Dijon Basil Oil Dressing that adds a tangy and aromatic note. The dressing is a breeze to make but packs a punch, infusing the salad with layers of complexity without overpowering the simplicity of the ingredients.
Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
2 cups watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 cups feta cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
For the Dijon Basil Oil Dressing:
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon honey
1 small garlic clove, minced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by cutting both the watermelon and feta into 1-inch cubes. Aim for uniformity to achieve the perfect checkerboard pattern.
Assemble the Checkerboard: On a large, flat platter, start assembling the salad by alternately placing the watermelon and feta cubes in a grid pattern. Continue until the entire platter is filled, resembling a checkerboard.
Make the Dijon Basil Oil Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, and minced garlic. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing. Stir in the chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Dress the Salad: Drizzle the Dijon Basil Oil Dressing over the checkerboard salad just before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of sea salt and black pepper.
Serve and Enjoy: This salad is best served immediately, as the freshness of the watermelon and the creaminess of the feta shine through. Pair it with a chilled glass of rosé or a sparkling water infused with fresh herbs for the ultimate summer dining experience.
Tips & Tricks
Prep Ahead: While the salad is best assembled just before serving, you can prepare the ingredients and dressing in advance. Store the watermelon and feta cubes separately in the refrigerator and whisk up the dressing just before assembly.
Seasonal Swaps: Feel free to swap out the basil for mint or arugula for a different flavor profile. You can also add a handful of toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
Savor the Summer
The Feta & Watermelon Checkerboard Salad is more than just a dish; it's an experience. It's a moment of pure summer joy captured on a plate, where simplicity meets sophistication. Whether you're hosting an outdoor dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this salad is sure to impress and satisfy.
