Grilled Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad

This refreshing grilled watermelon and vegan feta salad is my favorite way to kick off summer cookouts with friends. Smoky-sweet watermelon cubes absorb just enough char from the grill before tossing with creamy vegan feta, crisp cucumber, and bunches of fresh herbs. Paired with a citrusy dressing, this plant-based salad is as vibrant to look at as it is to eat.

The first time I grilled watermelon was a total revelation the taste is wildly different from raw and I was hooked I have served this twice already this month and my friends keep asking for the recipe

Ingredients

• Seedless watermelon: choose one that is heavy and sounds hollow when tapped grills best when cut into thick cubes
• English cucumber: for extra crunch pick one that is firm and dark green
• Fresh mint leaves: brighten every bite use torn not chopped for best flavor and aroma
• Fresh basil leaves: add a sweet peppery twist tear by hand just before adding
• Vegan feta cheese: opt for a tangy version based on cashews or almonds for maximum creaminess
• Extra virgin olive oil: grassy and pure quality oil makes a big difference in the dressing
• Fresh lime juice: provides lively acidity squeeze just before using for best flavor
• Agave syrup or maple syrup: a touch of sweet balance try to use light colored pure syrup
• Sea salt: draws out juices and makes each ingredient pop choose flaky if using as garnish as well
• Freshly ground black pepper: perks up the final flavor add more if you like a little heat
• Lime zest: nice as a garnish use only the outer green layer to avoid bitterness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Grill or Grill Pan:

Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high until hot so the watermelon will caramelize quickly and pick up char without steaming

Oil and Prep Watermelon:

Lightly brush cubed watermelon with olive oil on all sides for both flavor and to help prevent sticking

Grill the Watermelon:

Lay cubes on grill let cook untouched for two to three minutes until grill marks form and edges look slightly caramelized then gently flip every piece and repeat Remove to a plate and let cool a few moments so juices settle

Combine Salad Ingredients:

In a large bowl add grilled watermelon, diced cucumber, crumbled vegan feta, torn mint, and basil Toss gently so the watermelon holds its shape

Prepare the Dressing:

In a separate small bowl whisk together the rest of the olive oil, lime juice, agave syrup, salt, and pepper Whisk continuously until it looks creamy and well combined

Dress and Toss:

Pour the dressing over the salad cushion the herbs with the back of a spoon or spatula and toss lightly until coated Every bite should get a little of everything

Serve and Garnish:

Mound the finished salad onto a large serving platter Sprinkle with lime zest and flaky sea salt right before serving for zippy bursts of flavor Serve immediately for brightest taste and best texture

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The watermelon is definitely my favorite piece of this salad I will always remember my cousin’s backyard party last July when the cousins all stood around the grill sneaking pieces before they even hit the bowl I carve off a slab just for myself when grilling

Storage Tips

Best eaten right after tossing so the herbs stay fresh and watermelon holds its bite If making ahead combine everything except the basil and mint then store in the fridge up to one day Add herbs and dressing right before serving Leftovers will get juicier and can be repurposed as a salsa for tacos or wraps

Ingredient Substitutions

If vegan feta is not an option marinated tofu cubes work well too For a milder flavor try using baby spinach or arugula in place of basil Keep in mind the watermelon is the star so let it shine with whatever you have on hand

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Serving Suggestions

I love pairing this salad with grilled corn or veggie skewers for a summer feast It also looks stunning next to crusty bread or as a brilliant starter at a barbecue Try layering it over chilled quinoa for a more filling meal

Cultural Context

Grilling fruit is a tradition across many cultures From Mexican grilled pineapple to Middle Eastern watermelon salads adding a hint of smoke highlights sweetness in unexpected ways This dish bridges a classic Greek watermelon feta combo with a vegan and modern twist

Recipe FAQs

→ Why grill watermelon for this salad?

Grilling caramelizes the watermelon, enhancing sweetness and adding subtle smoky flavor for a unique summer twist.

→ Can I use a different vegan cheese?

Yes, marinated tofu cubes or other vegan cheese alternatives will work if vegan feta is unavailable or undesired.

→ What herbs pair best with grilled watermelon?

Fresh mint and basil provide an aromatic, bright balance that complements both the fruit and creamy vegan cheese.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored (without herbs) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day to maintain freshness.

→ Are there garnish suggestions?

Add zest of lime, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor dimension and color.

→ Is this salad suitable for special diets?

Yes, it is vegan and gluten-free. Verify vegan feta ingredients if allergies are a concern, as some may contain nuts or soy.