Zesty Watermelon & Greens Salad
This refreshing Watermelon & Greens Salad is a vibrant dish inspired by a cherished recipe from Iron Barley in St. Louis. Perfect for summer gatherings or BBQs, the salad features juicy watermelon chunks marinated in a tangy and sweet dressing combined with peppery greens. Ideal for serving as a light entrée for two or as a side dish for four, this recipe offers versatility based on your serving needs. For a delightful variation, try enjoying the marinated watermelon as a standalone side, which pairs beautifully with grilled meats. Experience the fusion of flavors and textures as the sweetness of watermelon contrasts with the bitterness of greens and the sharpness of red onion, making it a perfect addition to any meal.
N/A
Servings
420
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Red Wine Vinegar
1/2 cup (None)
Honey
1/3 cup (None)
Brown Sugar
2 tablespoons (None)
Black Pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons (Ground)
Orange Juice
1 tablespoon (Freshly squeezed)
Salt
1 pinch (None)
Olive Oil
1 cup (Extra virgin recommended)
Ripe Watermelon
4-5 cups (Cut into 2-inch square chunks)
Red Onion
1/4 large (Sliced vertically into 1/4-inch slivers)
Mixed Baby Greens
4 cups (Include some bitter greens in the mix)
Pepper
To taste (Ground)
Instructions
1
In a deep-sided bowl, combine the red wine vinegar, honey, brown sugar, black pepper, orange juice, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these ingredients together until well mixed.
2
Gradually drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to create a smooth emulsion. Set the dressing aside.
3
In a separate large bowl, gently mix the ripe watermelon chunks and the sliced red onion until combined.
4
Pour the dressing over the watermelon and onion mixture, making sure to coat all the pieces well. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for about 20 minutes for marinating. If you prefer smaller pieces, try marinating for only 5 minutes for maximum flavor.
5
On small dinner plates, layer the mixed baby greens, allowing some dressing from the watermelon to enhance the greens.
6
Spoon the marinated watermelon and red onion mixture into the center of the greens, ensuring an attractive presentation.
7
Finish by grinding fresh black pepper over the top to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors!
Nutrition Information
36g
Fat
34g
Carbs
2g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the inspiration for the Zesty Watermelon & Greens Salad?
This recipe is inspired by a cherished dish from Iron Barley in St. Louis.
How many servings does this watermelon salad provide?
It serves as a light entrée for two people or as a side dish for four people.
How long should I marinate the watermelon?
The watermelon should be marinated for about 20 minutes in the refrigerator, or only 5 minutes if you prefer smaller pieces.
What ingredients are used in the salad dressing?
The dressing consists of red wine vinegar, honey, brown sugar, black pepper, orange juice, salt, and extra virgin olive oil.
What type of greens are recommended for this recipe?
Mixed baby greens are recommended, ideally including some bitter greens to contrast with the sweet watermelon.
How should the red onion be prepared?
The red onion should be sliced vertically into 1/4-inch slivers.
What size should the watermelon chunks be?
The watermelon should be cut into 2-inch square chunks.
Can I serve the marinated watermelon without the greens?
Yes, the marinated watermelon can be enjoyed as a standalone side dish, pairing beautifully with grilled meats.
What is the calorie count for this salad?
This salad contains approximately 420 calories per recipe batch as calculated.
What is the fat content of this recipe?
The recipe contains 36g of fat, primarily from the olive oil used in the dressing.
How much protein is in the Zesty Watermelon & Greens Salad?
The salad contains 2g of protein.
What is the carbohydrate content?
There are 34g of carbohydrates in this salad.
Does the dressing require an emulsion?
Yes, you should gradually drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to create a smooth emulsion.
Is there any fruit juice in the dressing?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed orange juice.
What kind of vinegar is best for this salad?
Red wine vinegar is specifically called for to provide the necessary tanginess.
How should the final dish be seasoned?
Finish the dish by grinding fresh black pepper over the top to taste before serving.
Is this recipe suitable for a summer BBQ?
Absolutely, its refreshing nature makes it a perfect addition to summer gatherings or BBQs.
How many total ingredients are needed?
There are 11 ingredients total in this recipe.
What flavor profile can I expect from this salad?
You will experience a fusion of sweet watermelon, bitter greens, and the sharpness of red onion.
Is the recipe easy to prepare?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe that involves simple whisking, mixing, and marinating.
Should the salad be served immediately?
Yes, for the best texture and flavor, serve the salad immediately after assembly.
How do I assemble the plates?
Layer the mixed baby greens on small dinner plates first, then spoon the marinated watermelon and onion mixture into the center.
How much honey is used in the dressing?
The recipe uses 1/3 cup of honey.
What type of olive oil is recommended?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for the best flavor in the dressing.
Can I use bottled orange juice?
The recipe suggests freshly squeezed orange juice for the best results.
How much brown sugar is needed?
You will need 2 tablespoons of brown sugar.
Is there salt in the recipe?
Yes, a pinch of salt is included in the dressing mix.
What provides the heat or spice in the salad?
The spice comes from ground black pepper in the dressing and fresh pepper ground over the top.
How much watermelon is required?
You will need 4 to 5 cups of ripe watermelon.
What is the role of the red onion slivers?
They provide a sharp contrast to the sweetness of the fruit and the richness of the dressing.