Fresh Mint And Melon Salad

Fresh melon and mint are a match made in heaven, and when you add some creamy feta and crunchy nuts to the mix, you’ve got a refreshing summer salad that’s perfect for hot days and outdoor gatherings.

This sweet and tangy combination is sure to be a crowd pleaser!

Ready Time

20 mins

Yields

9 servings

Ingredients

3 cups cubed fresh melon, such as cantaloupe, honeydew, or a combination of both
1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the cubed fresh melon, making sure to remove any excess moisture with a paper towel. Add the chopped fresh mint leaves to the bowl and gently toss to combine.

In a small bowl, crumble the feta cheese and set aside.

Add the chopped nuts to the bowl with the melon and mint, and toss gently to combine. In another small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, and honey until well combined.

Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.

Pour the dressing over the melon mixture and toss to coat. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Just before serving, give the salad a good stir and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve chilled, garnished with additional fresh mint leaves if desired.

Notes

For best results, use a ripe but firm melon – it should be slightly soft to the touch and have a sweet, fruity aroma. If your melon is too ripe, it’ll be too soft and messy for the salad.

Feel free to customize the type and amount of nuts to your liking – I like pecans for their rich flavor, but walnuts work beautifully too.

Don’t overdress the salad – the melon will release its juices and make the dressing more syrupy, so start with the recommended amount and adjust to taste. If you’re not a fan of feta, you can substitute it with goat cheese or even a mild blue cheese.

For a fancier presentation, arrange the melon cubes in a pattern on the plate or platter, then top with the mint, nuts, and feta.

This salad is perfect for a summer gathering or potluck, and can be made ahead of time – just give it a good stir before serving.