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Panera Watermelon Feta Salad Recipe

Panera Watermelon Feta Salad Recipe

Before diving into the delightful creation of the Panera Watermelon Feta Salad, let’s talk about what pairs well with this vibrant dish. The combination of sweet watermelon and tangy feta is a refreshing start to any meal. 
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Panera Watermelon Feta Salad Recipe
Servings: 6 Servings
Calories: 115kcal
Author: Bex Smith

Equipment

  • Large Salad Bowl

Ingredients

  • 3 cups 60 g fresh arugula (about 4 oz – 113 g or 720 ml)
  • About 4 cups 960 ml watermelon cubes (cut into 1-inch cubes)
  • 1/4 cup 60 ml mixed fresh herbs like mint, oregano, basil, parsley, or dill, chopped (reserve a few whole leaves for garnish)
  • 4 ounces 113 g feta cheese, crumbled
  • Zest of 1 medium lemon
  • 3 tablespoons 45 ml extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon 15 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon honey for a hint of sweetness
  • Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • Kosher salt to taste (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds for added crunch and flavor

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

  • Start by gathering all ingredients. I recommend washing the arugula thoroughly to remove any dirt. Cut your watermelon into 1-inch cubes. Trust me; the size matters. Each bite should be enjoyable, so aim for consistent pieces.

Step 2: Chop Fresh Herbs

  • Next, chop your chosen fresh herbs. Depending on the flavor you want, mix and match. A handful of mint adds a refreshing touch, while basil provides lovely warmth. Don’t forget to set aside a few whole leaves for garnishing at the end!

Step 3: Crumble the Feta

  • Set aside your feta cheese. Crumbling it before adding it to the salad allows for easy distribution throughout the mixture. Each bite should include that creamy feta goodness.

Step 4: Mix the Lemon Zest and Juice

  • In a small bowl, mix the lemon zest, juice, and honey. Whisk to combine until the honey dissolves. This mixture is where magic happens. It creates a bright splash of flavor that brings everything together.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

  • In a large salad bowl, combine the arugula, watermelon cubes, and crumbled feta. Then, carefully pour in the lemon mixture. Toss gently, ensuring you don’t break up the feta too much. You want it to maintain its crumbly form.

Step 6: Season and Serve

  • Finally, sprinkle in the black pepper, and add salt if you desire. Toss once more and taste. This is your moment to adjust the seasoning. If you feel like it needs more zing, add a bit more lemon juice. Now, top with your toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds.

Step 7: Garnish

  • For the final touch, add the whole herbs you reserved earlier as a garnish. This not only looks appealing but also adds a fresh aroma to the dish.

Notes

Fresh Arugula: Arugula isn’t just any leafy green. Known for its peppery flavor, it’s rich in vitamins K, A, and C. Arugula can also aid digestion!
Watermelon: This summertime favorite is around 92% water and is great for hydration. It also contains antioxidants, making it a healthy choice.
Mixed Fresh Herbs: The combination of herbs can transform a dish. Each herb comes with unique health benefits, like anti-inflammatory properties found in parsley or basil.
Feta Cheese: Not just a flavorful element, feta also contains beneficial probiotics, which are great for gut health.
Lemon Zest and Juice: Lemon zest contains essential oils that impart fragrance and flavor. You get vitamin C in the juice, raising the health factor.
Honey: This natural sweetener offers a healthier alternative to processed sugar. A little goes a long way.
Toasted Nuts: Nuts not only add texture but also provide healthy fats that are good for your heart.

Nutrition

Calories: 115kcal
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!