Arugula and Watermelon Salad with Balsamic Reduction
Arugula and Watermelon Salad with Balsamic Reduction is a refreshing and flavorful salad that is perfect for summer. The arugula provides a peppery bite, the watermelon is sweet and juicy, the red onion adds a bit of crunch, the feta cheese adds a salty tang, and the mint adds a fresh flavor. The balsamic reduction is the perfect finishing touch, adding a touch of sweetness and acidity. You'll want to make a double batch and eat all week long. We use sweet watermelon and snappy arugula as a base, and pair them with sharp feta, sweet red onion, and fresh mint, all dressed in a reduced balsamic vinaigrette.
The inspiration for this salad came to me on a hot summer day when I was looking for something light and refreshing to eat. I had some arugula in the fridge, and I thought it would be a great base for a salad. I also had some watermelon that I had picked up at the farmers market, and I thought it would add a nice sweetness to the salad. I added some red onion for a bit of crunch, and some feta cheese for a salty tang. I finished the salad with a balsamic reduction, which added a touch of sweetness and acidity. The salad was a hit with my family and friends, and I've been making it ever since. It's a great way to use up summer produce, and it's a delicious and healthy meal.
Arugula and Watermelon Salad with Balsamic Reduction Arugula and Watermelon Salad with Balsamic Reduction Arugula and Watermelon Salad with Balsamic Reduction Arugula and Watermelon Salad with Balsamic Reduction
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 5 | Serves: 2
Ingredients
  • 4 cups arugula
  • 1 cup cubed watermelon
  • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. In a large bowl, combine the arugula, watermelon, red onion, feta cheese, and mint.
  2. In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and olive oil and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the vinegar has thickened and reduced by about half.
  3. Drizzle the balsamic reduction over the salad and toss to coat.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Why It Works
  • The combination of sweet and savory flavors in this salad is what makes it so special. The watermelon and balsamic reduction add sweetness, while the arugula, red onion, and feta cheese add savory notes. The mint adds a refreshing flavor that brightens up the salad.
  • The balsamic reduction is what really makes this salad special. It adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that complements the other flavors in the salad. The reduction is also very easy to make, and it only takes a few minutes.
  • This salad is a great way to use up summer produce. Watermelon and arugula are both at their peak in the summer, and they're both packed with nutrients.