Description
This refreshing 10-Minute Watermelon Rind Salad with Feta & Arugula combines sweet watermelon cubes and crunchy watermelon rind with tangy feta, zesty lime dressing, and peppery arugula. Topped with pistachios and fresh mint, it’s a vibrant, light, and easy-to-make salad perfect for summer gatherings or as a healthy side dish.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Salad
- 4 cups cubed watermelon
- 2 cups thinly sliced watermelon rind (outer green skin removed)
- 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled or cubed (about 1 cup)
- 2 sprigs mint, leaves roughly chopped or torn
- 4 cups baby arugula
- 1/4 cup roasted, salted pistachios (shelled)
Dressing
- Juice from 1 lime (about 3 tablespoons)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Combine main ingredients: Place the cubed watermelon, thinly sliced watermelon rind, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled or cubed feta cheese, and chopped or torn mint leaves into a large mixing bowl.
- Add dressing: Squeeze the lime juice over the salad ingredients, then drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with salt and ground black pepper. Use tongs to toss everything together gently, ensuring the salad is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Assemble on arugula: Lay a bed of baby arugula on a large platter or serving bowl. Transfer the dressed watermelon salad on top and toss lightly to combine flavors without bruising the arugula.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle roasted, salted pistachios over the top along with additional fresh mint if desired. Serve immediately for best freshness and crispness.
Notes
- Remove the tough outer green skin from watermelon rind and use only the white part for a crisp texture.
- For added texture, you can toast the pistachios slightly before adding them.
- This salad is best served fresh, as the watermelon can release water if stored for too long.
- Adjust lime juice and seasoning to taste depending on the sweetness of the watermelon.
- For a vegan version, omit feta or substitute with a plant-based cheese.