Cantaloupe Feta Cheese Salad Recipe – Lebanese Special
Cantaloupe Feta Cheese Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines the sweetness of ripe cantaloupe with the tangy creaminess of feta cheese. Enhanced with fresh herbs and a light vinaigrette, this salad is perfect as a summer appetizer or a light, satisfying side. The contrasting flavors and textures make it a delightful and elegant choice for warm-weather dining.
- Prep Time20 min
Cantaloupe Feta Cheese Salad Ingredients:
- 1 cantaloupe, peeled, seeded, and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 4 oz (115g) feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds (optional)
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Prepare Ingredients:
Cube Cantaloupe: Peel, seed, and cut the cantaloupe into bite-sized cubes.
Slice Onion: Thinly slice the red onion.
Chop Herbs: Finely chop the fresh mint and basil leaves.
Prepare the Dressing:
Mix Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or red wine vinegar), and honey (if using). Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Salad:
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cantaloupe cubes, crumbled feta cheese, and thinly sliced red onion.
Add Herbs: Gently toss in the chopped mint and basil.
Dress the Salad:
Add Dressing: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients.
Add Nuts (Optional):
Top with Nuts: If using, sprinkle the toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds on top of the salad just before serving.
Serve:
Chill and Serve: For best results, let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Recipe Notes:
Cantaloupe: Make sure the cantaloupe is ripe for the best sweetness and flavor. You can also use honeydew or other melons as a substitute.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta provides a nice contrast to the sweet melon. You can also use goat cheese for a different twist.
Nuts: Toasted pine nuts or almonds add a nice crunch and extra flavor, but they are optional.
Herbs: Fresh mint and basil add a refreshing and aromatic touch. Adjust the amount based on personal preference.
Dressing: Adjust the amount of honey in the dressing based on the sweetness of your cantaloupe and personal taste.
