Keep cool this season with a salad that combines two super-hydrating fruits and veggies
This refreshing dish combines juicy watermelon, packed with hydrating properties and vitamins A and C, with sweet cherry tomatoes, which are rich in antioxidants like lycopene. Fresh basil adds a fragrant, peppery touch while also providing essential nutrients like vitamin K and manganese. Red onions contribute that subtle spicy bite to balance out the sweetness of the fruit.
Topped with crumbled feta for a creamy, tangy contrast and optional sunflower seeds for a nutty crunch, this salad is elevated by a zesty lime dressing that ties everything together with its bright, citrusy notes. Perfect for summer gatherings, this salad offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will keep your guests coming back for more.
Ingredients:
4 cups watermelon, cubed
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (use a mix of red, yellow, and orange heirlooms for extra color)
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, rolled and sliced into a chiffonade
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 Tbsp. Sunflower seeds, optional
Lime Dressing:
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon lime zest
1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine the watermelon cubes, cherry tomatoes, chiffonade basil leaves, and sliced red onion. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, lime zest, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined. Drizzle the lime dressing over the watermelon and tomato mixture. Gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly. Sprinkle the feta cheese over the top for added texture and flavor. Finish with the sunflower seeds if desired.
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled.
