Honeydew & Feta Salad
This refreshing Honeydew & Feta Salad perfectly balances sweet honeydew with salty feta, brightened by fresh herbs and a zesty lime dressing. It's a light, flavorful dish ideal for a quick snack, elegant side, or a sophisticated light lunch.
For 4 servings
**Prepare the Honeydew:** Wash the honeydew melon thoroughly. Carefully cut it in half, scoop out and discard the seeds. Using a sharp knife, cut away the rind and then dice the honeydew flesh into approximately 3/4-inch (2 cm) cubes. Place the cubed honeydew into a medium-sized mixing bowl.
**Prepare the Herbs:** Gently wash the fresh basil leaves and pat them completely dry with a paper towel. Roughly tear or chop the leaves into smaller pieces.
**Combine Ingredients:** Add the crumbled feta cheese and the prepared basil leaves to the bowl with the cubed honeydew.
**Make the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lime juice, and freshly ground black pepper. If desired, add a tiny pinch of sea salt, keeping in mind that feta cheese is already quite salty.
**Dress and Serve:** Pour the prepared dressing evenly over the honeydew, feta, and basil mixture. Gently toss the salad until all ingredients are lightly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately for the best texture and vibrant flavor.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Choose Ripe Honeydew:** Select a honeydew that feels heavy for its size, has a waxy rather than fuzzy skin, and smells subtly sweet at the blossom end. Avoid any with soft spots or bruises.
- 2**Herb Variations:** While basil is classic, fresh mint also pairs beautifully with honeydew and feta. You can use one or a combination of both for a layered herbal note.
- 3**Serving Temperature:** This salad is best served chilled. If preparing slightly ahead, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving to prevent the honeydew from becoming watery.
- 4**Presentation:** For an elegant touch, arrange the honeydew and feta on a platter, then scatter the herbs and drizzle the dressing. Garnish with a few extra basil leaves or a lime wedge.
Adapt it for your goals.
Additions
Introduce thinly sliced red onion for a subtle bite, or a handful of toasted pistachios for crunch and nutty flavor. Cucumber cubes can also add extra freshness.
Cheese SwapCheese Swap
If feta isn't your preference, try substituting with fresh goat cheese for a creamier, tangier profile, or small balls of fresh mozzarella (bocconcini) for a milder taste.
Dressing EnhancementDressing Enhancement
For a touch of sweetness, add 1/2 teaspoon of honey or agave nectar to the dressing. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving can also add depth.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Hydration
Honeydew melon is composed of over 90% water, making this salad a fantastic way to stay hydrated, especially during warmer weather.
Rich in Vitamins & Antioxidants
Honeydew provides Vitamin C and potassium, while fresh basil offers Vitamin K and antioxidants, contributing to overall health and immune support.
Calcium Source
Feta cheese contributes a good amount of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth, and also provides a source of protein.
Frequently asked questions
While best served immediately for optimal freshness and texture, you can prep the honeydew and crumble the feta a few hours in advance. Keep them separate and store in the refrigerator. Prepare the dressing just before serving and toss everything together right before you're ready to eat.
