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Fresh Grilled Watermelon and Feta Salad Easy Recipe with Chili Lime Vinaigrette

grilled watermelon and feta salad - featured image

A quick and easy salad featuring smoky-sweet grilled watermelon paired with salty feta and a bright chili lime vinaigrette, perfect for summer gatherings and last-minute entertaining.

Ingredients

  • Seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch thick wedges
  • Olive oil, for brushing
  • Salt, a pinch
  • Feta cheese, crumbled
  • Fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
  • Red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • Fresh lime juice (about 2 limes, roughly 3 tablespoons)
  • Honey or agave syrup (1 tablespoon)
  • Chili powder (1 teaspoon)
  • Olive oil (⅓ cup / 80 ml)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cut the watermelon into 1-inch thick wedges, then trim the rind if preferred. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt.
  2. Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat until hot.
  3. Place the watermelon slices on the grill and cook about 2-3 minutes per side until grill marks appear and the flesh is slightly softened. Remove and let cool slightly.
  4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together fresh lime juice, honey, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. Cut the grilled watermelon into cubes or bite-sized chunks. In a large bowl, combine the watermelon pieces, crumbled feta, chopped mint, and sliced red onion if using.
  6. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine without breaking up the watermelon.
  7. Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

Watch the watermelon carefully while grilling to avoid mushiness. If vinaigrette separates, whisk again before tossing. For dairy-free, substitute feta with vegan cheese or toasted nuts. The salad is best served fresh or slightly chilled and can be stored refrigerated for up to 2 days. Let the salad rest 5-10 minutes before serving to meld flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled watermelon salad, feta salad, chili lime vinaigrette, summer salad, easy salad recipe, healthy salad, gluten-free salad, dairy-free option