Description
This Peach Watermelon Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for warm weather. Combining sweet, juicy watermelon and peaches with the fresh flavors of mint and basil, a hint of tangy lime juice, and optionally topped with crumbled feta cheese, this salad offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and herbaceous notes. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for light lunches, picnics, or as a side for grilled dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit
- 2 cups fresh watermelon, diced
- 2 cups fresh peaches, diced (about 2 medium-sized peaches)
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Other
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Feta cheese, crumbled (for a savory touch)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Dice the watermelon and peaches into bite-sized pieces. Chop fresh mint and basil leaves after washing and drying them to ensure freshness and flavor.
- Combine Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced watermelon and peaches with the finely chopped red onion, mint, and basil to create a flavorful fruit and herb blend.
- Add Lime Juice: Squeeze the juice of one lime evenly over the salad ingredients. Stir gently to coat all pieces, adding a refreshing citrus tang that enhances the fruit flavors.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, balancing the natural sweetness with a bit of seasoning for depth and complexity.
- Add Feta (Optional): If you desire a savory contrast, add crumbled feta cheese and toss gently to combine without breaking down the fruit.
- Chill: For the best flavor and a refreshing experience, chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Serve the vibrant salad in bowls or on a platter, perfect as a light snack or a side dish to any meal.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm peaches to ensure they hold their shape when diced.
- Feel free to substitute mint with cilantro or add a dash of honey for extra sweetness if desired.
- Salad can be made a few hours ahead but is best enjoyed fresh to prevent the fruit from releasing too much juice.
- Feta cheese is optional and can be omitted for a vegan version.
- Adjust salt and pepper gradually to avoid overpowering the sweetness of the fruit.
