Watermelon, Arugula, and Pine Nut Salad
Total Time: 15 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: N/A
Servings: 2
Category: Melons
Keywords: Greens, Fruit, Vegetable, Summer, Easy, Quick, Salad, < 15 Mins
Recipe Overview
This Watermelon, Arugula, and Pine Nut Salad is an absolutely stunning summer dish, bursting with color and flavor. Perfect for a light, refreshing meal or a side salad at any summer gathering, it combines the sweetness of ripe watermelon with the peppery bite of fresh arugula and the crunch of toasted pine nuts. A delicate lemon vinaigrette ties everything together, while crumbled feta or ricotta adds a creamy richness. The best part? It takes only 15 minutes to prepare, making it the perfect go-to for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
Ingredients & Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Red wine vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Table salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Watermelon, cut into cubes | 3 cups |
| Baby arugula | 6 cups |
| Pine nuts, toasted | 1/4 cup |
| Feta cheese, crumbled or ricotta | 1/3 cup |
| Fresh coarse ground black pepper | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 390.4 kcal |
| Fat | 31.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 22.2 mg |
| Sodium | 886 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 24.2 g |
| Fiber | 2.9 g |
| Sugar | 17.7 g |
| Protein | 9.5 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Lemon Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, and table salt. Slowly add the extra virgin olive oil in a thin stream, whisking continuously until the dressing has emulsified and become smooth. -
Assemble the Salad:
To the bowl with the dressing, add the watermelon cubes, baby arugula leaves, and toasted pine nuts. Gently toss everything together until well coated with the dressing. -
Finish and Serve:
Sprinkle the salad with crumbled feta or ricotta cheese, depending on your preference. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste, and give it one last gentle toss. Serve immediately and enjoy this vibrant, refreshing salad that’s perfect for any summer occasion!
Tips & Variations:
- Add Protein: For a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp on top of the salad.
- Cheese Options: If you’re not a fan of feta, try using goat cheese or even a creamy burrata for a different flavor profile.
- Crunchy Add-ins: For extra texture, add some toasted almonds or sunflower seeds in place of the pine nuts.
- Chill the Salad: If you have time, chill the watermelon and arugula in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before assembling the salad. This enhances the refreshing nature of the dish, especially on a hot summer day.
Why You’ll Love This Salad:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, this salad is a lifesaver for busy evenings or last-minute dinner plans.
- Fresh & Light: The combination of sweet watermelon, peppery arugula, and crunchy pine nuts creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making each bite a delight.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with healthy fats from the olive oil and pine nuts, along with the hydrating benefits of watermelon, this salad makes for a nutrient-dense dish that feels as good as it tastes.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer feta or ricotta, or if you’d like to add some protein to make it a full meal, this salad can be tailored to your liking.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: It’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to ensure the watermelon and arugula stay fresh and crisp. However, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to toss everything together.
Q: Can I substitute the pine nuts?
A: Absolutely! You can swap pine nuts for any other type of nut, like chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans. For a nut-free version, try adding crunchy seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
Q: Is there a way to make the dressing dairy-free?
A: Yes! The dressing is already dairy-free as itβs made with olive oil and lemon juice. Just skip the cheese topping, or use a dairy-free cheese alternative like almond-based feta if desired.
This Watermelon, Arugula, and Pine Nut Salad is not just a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavor that celebrates the best of summer. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue, a light lunch, or a casual dinner, this salad will quickly become a go-to dish in your summer recipe rotation. So go ahead, enjoy the seasonβs bounty in the most delicious way possible!
