If you’re craving a salad that bursts with freshness, vibrant flavors, and a perfect balance of sweet and savory, look no further than this Watermelon Shiso Salad with Feta and Toasted Sesame Recipe. This dish elegantly combines juicy, crisp watermelon cubes with the delicate, minty zing of shiso leaves, creamy crumbled feta, and the nutty crunch of toasted sesame seeds. It’s a simple yet sophisticated salad that feels like a mini celebration of summer in every bite, perfect for warm days or any time you want a light but exciting dish on your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this salad are wonderfully straightforward, each playing a crucial role in creating a harmony of textures, colors, and flavors. From the juicy watermelon to the tangy feta and aromatic shiso, every element contributes to making this salad uniquely refreshing and satisfying.
- 4 cups seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes: The juicy, sweet base that brings coolness and vibrant color.
- 8–10 fresh shiso leaves, thinly sliced: Adds a citrusy, minty flavor that is the star herb of this salad.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Provides a creamy, salty contrast that elevates the melon’s sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Offers acidity to brighten and balance the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: Enhances the salad with a fresh, zesty tang.
- 1 teaspoon honey: Just a touch of sweetness to tie all the elements together.
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Adds subtle richness and smooth texture.
- Pinch of salt: To season and deepen the flavors.
- Pinch of black pepper: Brings a gentle warmth in the background.
- Optional: 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds: For a delightful crunch and nutty aroma.
How to Make Watermelon Shiso Salad with Feta and Toasted Sesame Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Watermelon and Shiso
Start by cutting your seedless watermelon into neat, 1-inch cubes for easy, bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the fresh shiso leaves; their unique, herbaceous flavor is what makes this salad truly stand out. Toss these two together gently in a large bowl so that the shiso infuses the watermelon with its crisp, slightly citrusy aroma.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk the rice vinegar, lime juice, honey, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. This dressing is light and lively, designed to perfectly complement the natural sweetness of the watermelon and the herbaceous notes of shiso without overpowering them.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
Pour the dressing over the watermelon and shiso mixture, then gently toss everything together with care. You want every cube to be lightly coated so each bite bursts with flavor but the watermelon maintains its crisp texture.
Step 4: Add Feta and Toasted Sesame Seeds
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad for that creamy, salty dimension. Follow this by scattering toasted sesame seeds on top, if using, to add a nutty crunch that makes this salad irresistible. Serve immediately or chill it for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld wonderfully.
How to Serve Watermelon Shiso Salad with Feta and Toasted Sesame Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle a few extra toasted sesame seeds or a whole shiso leaf on top. You could also add a few microgreens or edible flowers for an elegant presentation that makes this salad look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled seafood, chicken, or tofu, making it a fantastic side dish to summer barbecues or light dinners. Its refreshing character also complements spicy dishes, balancing bold flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the salad in individual clear glass bowls to showcase the vivid colors, or arrange it atop a bed of crisp mixed greens for added texture. For a party, you can even serve it in small, elegant bowls or glasses for a charming appetizer option that guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Watermelon Shiso Salad with Feta and Toasted Sesame Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. However, for the best taste and texture, it’s recommended to consume it fresh as the watermelon may release juice and the shiso can lose its vibrant flavor over time.
Freezing
Freezing this salad is not recommended. The juicy watermelon will lose its crispness and become watery once thawed, which affects the overall texture and freshness of the dish.
Reheating
Since this is a fresh, no-cook salad, reheating is not necessary. It’s best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature to keep all the bright flavors and textures intact.
FAQs
Can I substitute shiso leaves with another herb?
If you can’t find shiso leaves, fresh mint is a great alternative. It provides a bright, slightly sweet herbaceous note that complements watermelon well, though the flavor won’t be as unique as shiso.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! Simply omit the feta or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative to keep the salad vegan while maintaining its creamy, salty counterpoint to the watermelon.
How long can I let the salad chill before serving?
Chilling for up to 30 minutes is perfect to enhance the flavors as the dressing melds with the watermelon and herbs. However, don’t chill it too long as the watermelon will release water and can dilute the salad.
Can I prepare this salad in advance for a party?
You can pre-mix the dressing and chop the watermelon and shiso ahead of time, but toss everything together just before serving to maintain freshness. Add the feta and sesame seeds right before presenting.
What’s the best way to toast sesame seeds?
Toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat, shaking frequently, until they turn golden brown and fragrant. This usually takes 2 to 3 minutes and really brings out their nutty flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Watermelon Shiso Salad with Feta and Toasted Sesame Recipe is an absolute joy to make and eat. It’s fresh, crisp, and bursting with balanced flavors that feel both light and indulgent at the same time. Whether you’re looking for a quick side or a standout dish for entertaining, I highly encourage you to give this recipe a try — your taste buds will thank you!
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Watermelon Shiso Salad with Feta and Toasted Sesame Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Watermelon Shiso Salad combining juicy watermelon cubes with aromatic shiso leaves, tangy rice vinegar-lime dressing, and creamy feta cheese. This light and colorful salad is perfect for summer, offering a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors with a hint of herbal freshness.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8–10 fresh shiso leaves, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
Optional
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the watermelon and shiso: Chop the seedless watermelon into 1-inch cubes and thinly slice the fresh shiso leaves. Combine these in a large bowl to create the salad base.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, lime juice, honey, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well emulsified and evenly blended.
- Toss the salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the watermelon and shiso mixture. Gently toss everything together to thoroughly coat all the pieces with the dressing.
- Add final toppings: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and the toasted sesame seeds (if using) evenly over the salad.
- Serve or chill: Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste or chill it for up to 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and intensify.
Notes
- To make this salad vegan, omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based alternative.
- If shiso leaves are not available, fresh mint leaves can be used as a fragrant substitute.
- Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more or less honey according to your preference.
