Chilled Heirloom Tomato & Watermelon Summer Salad

Eleanor Craig

Inspired by the vibrant produce of Mediterranean summers, this Chilled Heirloom Tomato & Watermelon Summer Salad brings together sweet, savory, and herbaceous notes in a way that’s both refreshing and refined. The contrasting textures of juicy watermelon and firm heirloom tomatoes are balanced with creamy feta, a drizzle of honey-lemon vinaigrette, and peppery arugula, making this the perfect dish for hot days and elegant al fresco dining.

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Prep Time 20

Total Time 20

Course Salad

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings bowls

Calories 138 kcal

Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Chef's Knife
Cutting board
Whisk
Small bowl
Tongs or salad servers

Ingredients

For the Salad:

2 cups seedless watermelon cubed into 1-inch pieces; choose ripe and chilled watermelon
2 cups heirloom tomatoes cut into wedges; use mixed colors for best presentation
1 ½ cups baby arugula fresh and dry, loosely packed
½ cup feta cheese crumbled; use Greek sheep’s milk feta for flavor
2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves chopped finely
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil use high-quality, fruity olive oil
¼ teaspoon coarse sea salt such as Maldon or fleur de sel
⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Honey-Lemon Vinaigrette:

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey local raw honey preferred for nuanced flavor
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, honey, and Dijon mustard until emulsified. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to create a smooth vinaigrette. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cubed watermelon and heirloom tomato wedges. Be delicate to retain their shape and avoid bruising.
Add the baby arugula, chopped mint, and feta cheese to the bowl.
Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and use tongs or salad servers to gently toss everything just until coated. Avoid overmixing to keep the textures crisp.
Finish with a sprinkle of coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately while chilled.

Notes

For a vegan version, substitute the feta with a plant-based cheese or marinated tofu cubes.
Chill the serving plates 10 minutes before serving for an elegant touch.
Use yellow heirloom or Cherokee green tomatoes for a more colorful presentation.

Nutrition

Calories: 138kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 4gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 17mgSodium: 380mgPotassium: 325mgFiber: 2gSugar: 11gVitamin A: 1418IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 125mgIron: 1mg

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