
Dinner with Diane: Watermelon Wedges with Feta, Mint & Lime Dressing on Arugula
Watermelon Wedges with Feta, Mint & Lime Dressing on Arugula
A refreshing summer salad with a spicy-sweet twist
When the heat is on, nothing hits quite like watermelon—and this elegant platter combines sweet, salty, tangy, and spicy in one glorious bite. Fresh watermelon wedges are paired with peppery arugula, crumbled feta, cool mint, a zingy lime dressing, and just a whisper of Tajín Clásico. It’s the ultimate summer salad: easy, colorful, and made to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Fresh & Hydrating – Watermelon is peak summer refreshment.
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Beautiful Presentation – Plated wedges look stunning on any table.
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Flavor Explosion – Sweet, salty, tangy, spicy, and herby all in one bite.
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Perfect for Entertaining – Quick to assemble and always a hit.
Ingredients
Serves 4–6
Salad Base:
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8–10 triangular wedges of seedless watermelon (rind on)
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3 cups baby arugula, loosely packed
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½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
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10–12 fresh mint leaves, thinly sliced
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Tajín Clásico, to taste (light sprinkle for finishing)
Lime Dressing:
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1½ tablespoons fresh lime juice
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1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
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1 teaspoon honey
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Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Pinch of sea salt
How to Make It
1. Whisk the Lime Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the fresh lime juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified and silky.
2. Build the Platter
On a large white or ceramic platter, spread a generous bed of baby arugula. Neatly arrange the watermelon wedges over the top—rind side down—either in a fan shape or a staggered row for visual interest.
3. Garnish Like a Pro
Drizzle the lime-honey dressing over the watermelon and arugula. Sprinkle evenly with crumbled feta and thin ribbons of fresh mint. Finish with a light dusting of Tajín Clásico for that perfect touch of citrusy spice.
4. Serve Immediately
For peak flavor and texture, serve this salad chilled and fresh. It’s ideal as a starter, side dish, or centerpiece at any warm-weather gathering.
Variations & Tips
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Make It a Meal: Add grilled shrimp, avocado slices, or a scoop of quinoa.
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No Tajín? Sub with a mix of chili powder and a little lime zest.
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Vegan Option: Skip the feta or use a plant-based alternative.
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Mint Hack: Roll the leaves together and slice thinly into ribbons for quick prep.
Best Served At:
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Backyard BBQs
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Summer brunches
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4th of July cookouts
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Bridal or baby showers
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Poolside snacking (yes, really)