Refreshing Watermelon & Arugula Salad with Pine Nuts
This Refreshing Watermelon & Arugula Salad is a vibrant celebration of summer's finest flavors! Inspired by a cherished recipe from Gourmet Magazine, this dish perfectly balances sweet, savory, and nutty elements. Juicy watermelon cubes provide a delightful burst of hydration, while baby arugula adds a peppery note. The crunchy pine nuts introduce texture, and the creamy feta or ricotta elevates the salad to gourmet status. Dressed in a light and zesty lemon vinaigrette, this salad not only pleases the palate but also creates a stunning visual feast on your table. Perfect for warm evenings or delightful picnics, this salad is a must-try for any summer gathering.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
fresh lemon juice
1 (tablespoon)
red wine vinegar
1 (tablespoon)
table salt
1/2 (teaspoon, to taste)
extra virgin olive oil
2 (tablespoons)
watermelon
3 (cups, cubed and seeded, 1/2 to 3/4 inch cubes (from a 2 1/2 lb. piece, rind discarded))
baby arugula
6 (ounces)
pine nuts
1/4 (cup)
crumbled feta or ricotta cheese
1/3 (cup)
fresh coarse ground black pepper
(to taste)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, and table salt until fully combined.
2
Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while whisking continuously to create a smooth and emulsified dressing.
3
Gently fold in the cubed watermelon, baby arugula, and pine nuts until the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing.
4
Finally, sprinkle the crumbled feta (or ricotta cheese) over the top, and season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
5
Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing salad as a light meal or a complement to your favorite dishes.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Refreshing Watermelon & Arugula Salad with Pine Nuts?
It is a vibrant summer salad that balances sweet watermelon cubes, peppery baby arugula, crunchy pine nuts, and creamy cheese with a zesty lemon vinaigrette.
What are the main ingredients for the dressing?
The dressing is made from fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, table salt, and extra virgin olive oil.
How do I prepare the watermelon for this salad?
You should peel and seed the watermelon, then cut it into 1/2 to 3/4 inch cubes. You will need approximately 3 cups.
Can I substitute the arugula?
While baby arugula provides a specific peppery note, you could use baby spinach or a spring mix if preferred, though the flavor profile will change.
What kind of cheese works best in this recipe?
The recipe recommends using either crumbled feta for a salty kick or ricotta cheese for a creamier texture.
Are the pine nuts necessary?
Pine nuts add a signature nutty crunch, but they can be omitted or replaced with slivered almonds or toasted walnuts if you have an allergy.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this salad is entirely vegetarian as it contains only fruit, vegetables, nuts, and dairy.
How do I ensure the dressing is emulsified?
Slowly drizzle the extra virgin olive oil into the lemon juice and vinegar mixture while whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth.
Can I make this salad in advance?
It is best served immediately after assembly to prevent the arugula from wilting and the watermelon from releasing too much juice.
What was the inspiration for this recipe?
This dish was inspired by a cherished recipe originally published in Gourmet Magazine.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed (watermelon, arugula, nuts, cheese, vinegar, oil, and citrus) are naturally gluten-free.
How much arugula is needed?
The recipe calls for 6 ounces of baby arugula.
What type of vinegar should I use?
Red wine vinegar is recommended to provide the right acidity for the vinaigrette.
Can I use a larger piece of watermelon?
The recipe suggests starting with a 2 1/2 lb piece of watermelon to get the required 3 cups of cubes after discarding the rind.
Is table salt the only option for seasoning?
The recipe uses table salt in the dressing, but you can also use sea salt or kosher salt adjusted to your taste preference.
How should I serve the cheese?
The feta or ricotta should be sprinkled or crumbled over the top of the salad after it has been tossed with the dressing.
What is the best way to toss the salad?
Gently fold the watermelon, arugula, and pine nuts together with the dressing to avoid breaking the watermelon cubes or bruising the greens.
Can I add other seasonings?
The recipe finishes with freshly ground coarse black pepper to taste, which complements the sweetness of the fruit.
Is this a light meal or a side dish?
It can be served as a refreshing light meal on its own or as a side dish for summer gatherings and picnics.
Should I toast the pine nuts?
While the recipe doesn't explicitly require it, toasting pine nuts in a dry pan for a few minutes can enhance their flavor and crunch.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the most vibrant and refreshing flavor.
What makes this salad healthy?
It contains hydrating watermelon, nutrient-dense arugula, healthy fats from olive oil, and protein from the pine nuts and cheese.
How do I prevent the salad from becoming soggy?
Dress the salad right before serving and ensure the arugula is dry after washing.
What is the texture of the salad?
It features a mix of textures including juicy fruit, leafy greens, crunchy nuts, and creamy cheese.
Can I add mint to this salad?
While not in the original recipe, many watermelon salads pair well with fresh mint if you want an extra layer of freshness.
Is the rind used in any way?
No, the recipe specifies that the rind should be discarded.
How much cheese is included?
The recipe uses 1/3 cup of crumbled feta or ricotta cheese.
What kind of olive oil is best?
Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its rich flavor and health benefits in raw dressings.
Can I use this for meal prep?
If meal prepping, keep the dressing, watermelon, and arugula in separate containers and combine them only when ready to eat.
What is the total number of ingredients?
There are 9 ingredients in total for this recipe.