Refresh this July with Grilled Watermelon Feta Salad

Grilled watermelon feta salad.Photo byNathan Congleton / TODAY

Grilled Watermelon Feta Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 large watermelon, rind removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 block feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the watermelon, feta cheese, mint, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Toss to coat.
3. Serve immediately or chill for later.

This salad is light and refreshing, and it's perfect for a hot summer day. The watermelon is sweet and juicy, the feta cheese is salty and creamy, and the mint adds a touch of freshness. The olive oil and lemon juice help to bring all of the flavors together.

This salad is also very versatile. You can add other ingredients to it, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, or red onions. You can also change up the dressing to suit your taste. If you want a more savory salad, you could use balsamic vinegar instead of lemon juice. If you want a sweeter salad, you could add honey or maple syrup to the dressing.

No matter how you make it, this salad is sure to be a hit. It's perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing summer supper.

Grilled watermelon is a relatively new culinary trend, but its origins can be traced back to the ancient world. In China, there is a dish called shugua, which is made by grilling watermelon slices and then serving them with a sweet and sour sauce. Shugua is believed to have originated in the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), and it is still enjoyed today as a refreshing summer snack.

In the West, grilled watermelon first appeared on the culinary scene in the early 2000s. Chefs began experimenting with grilling watermelon as a way to add a smoky flavor to the fruit. Grilled watermelon quickly became a popular summer dish, and it is now featured on menus all over the world.

There are a few different ways to grill watermelon. The most common method is to simply grill the watermelon slices directly over the heat. However, some chefs prefer to grill the watermelon slices in a pan or on a grill pan. This method helps to prevent the watermelon from burning, and it also helps to create a more even cook.

Grilled watermelon can be served on its own or as part of a larger dish. It is often served with a variety of toppings, such as feta cheese, mint, or balsamic vinegar. Grilled watermelon can also be used in salads, desserts, or cocktails.

No matter how you choose to enjoy it, grilled watermelon is a delicious and refreshing way to cool down on a hot summer day.

Here are some of the health benefits of grilled watermelon:

• It is a good source of vitamins A and C. Vitamin A is essential for vision, while vitamin C is important for the immune system.
• It is low in calories and fat. A serving of grilled watermelon has only about 100 calories and no fat.
• It is a good source of antioxidants. Antioxidants help to protect the body against damage from free radicals.

So next time you're looking for a delicious and healthy summer snack, try grilled watermelon. You won't be disappointed!