Five Senses Palate/Sujhey Beisser
Watermelon Salad with Lemon-Tequila Dressing
Summer is the perfect time to indulge in fresh, seasonal ingredients, and this salad is a vibrant celebration of just that. Watermelon, at its peak from May to September, provides a juicy base that is both refreshing and hydrating. The watermelon radish, with its striking pink interior, is best harvested in early summer and you can find it at farmer markets; it offers a mild spiciness that complements the dish. Kohlrabi, another summer gem, brings a satisfying crunch, while arugula, with its peppery bite, thrives in the warm months. The banana pepper adds a subtle heat, and together with the creamy feta, this salad is a symphony of flavors and textures. The dressing has acidity from the lemon juice, sweetness from agave, and the tequila just gives a little zing.
I am enthusiastic about cooking seasonally, and this salad embodies that ethos perfectly. Enjoy this dish as a delightful way to savor the best of summer's bounty!
Ingredients:
(serves 4 to 6):
For the dressing:
1 Shallot, finely diced
3 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 Tablespoon Tequila Añejo
1 Teaspoon agave or honey
1 Teaspoon fresh thyme
1/3 Cup extra virgin olive oil
Salt & pepper to taste
For the salad:
1 Small seedless watermelon
8 oz. Wedge feta cheese
1 Banana pepper, thinly sliced
1 Watermelon radish, peeled and thinly sliced
1 Kohlrabi, peeled and cut into thin sticks
2 Cups arugula
Method
For the dressing:
In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine all the ingredients and shake well. Chill in the fridge until ready to use.
For the salad:
Keep the watermelon in the fridge until you are ready to prepare your salad, that way the watermelon is cold for a more refreshing effect. Remove rind and slice the watermelon into 2″ squares. Slice feta cheese into 1″ squares. To assemble the salad, in a large plate working in layers place the arugula, watermelon radish, watermelon squares, feta cheese, kohlrabi sticks and banana pepper slices. Drizzle with the dressing and serve. Enjoy!
Note: if you are taking the salad to a picnic, layer the salad in a container with a tight lid, Keep cool. Dress the salad right before serving.
