Refreshing Watermelon, Basil, and Feta Salad: A Summertime Favorite [Recipe]

When it comes to capturing the essence of summer, few flavors can rival the vibrant combination of watermelon and basil. These two versatile ingredients have the power to elevate your meals, whether you prefer sweet or savory dishes. The unique blend of the sunshine sweetness of watermelon, the earthy aroma of basil, and the tang of lime juice creates a refreshing sensation that is perfect for the summer season. In this article, we will explore the joy of growing watermelon and basil in your garden, delve into the benefits of light and refreshing meals, and indulge in the nostalgia that these flavors evoke.

Growing Watermelon and Basil in Your Garden

Imagine strolling through your garden on a warm summer day, plucking a juicy watermelon and fragrant basil leaves straight from the vine. By growing these two ingredients in your own backyard, you not only gain access to the freshest produce but also experience the joy of nurturing and cultivating your own food.

Watermelons are a delight to grow, with their sprawling vines and large, vibrant fruits. To cultivate watermelons, you'll need a sunny spot in your garden with well-drained soil. Start by sowing the seeds or transplanting seedlings after the last frost. Ensure you provide enough space for the vines to spread out and trellis them if needed. Regular watering, fertilizing, and protection from pests will help you achieve a bountiful harvest.

Basil, on the other hand, is an aromatic herb that thrives in warm weather. Choose a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight daily and has well-drained soil. Basil can be grown from seeds or transplants, and with regular pruning, it will continue to flourish throughout the summer. Pinching off the flowers will encourage the plant to focus its energy on producing more leaves, allowing you to enjoy the distinct aroma and flavor of fresh basil in your recipes.

As the temperature rises and the sun shines brighter, our bodies crave lighter and more refreshing meals. Watermelon and basil offer the perfect combination of flavors to satisfy these cravings while providing numerous health benefits.

Watermelon is not only a delicious and hydrating fruit but also a nutritious addition to your diet. With its high water content, it helps keep you hydrated during the hot summer months. Moreover, watermelon is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which support healthy skin and a robust immune system. Additionally, it contains lycopene, a powerful antioxidant known for its potential to reduce the risk of certain diseases. Incorporating watermelon into your meals can contribute to your overall well-being while tantalizing your taste buds.

summer salad, watermelon, feta

salad

Author: The Cottage Peach

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Watermelon Feta Salad

On my never ending quest to find ways to celebrate the garden harvest that don’t involve standing up and cooking in a hot kitchen for hours, I present to you - the perfect summer snack to use up all that basil or mint you don’t know what to do with.

Prep time: 10 MinTotal time: 10 Min

Ingredients

• 5 cups cubed watermelon
• ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ⅓ cup torn mint or basil leaves
• Sea salt

Dressing

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lime juice
• ½ garlic clove, minced
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

1. Cube your watermelon and roughly chop your basil.
2. Combine the salad ingredients in a bowl.
3. In a small mason jar, add all the dressing ingredients and shake until well combined.
4. Pour over the salad and enjoy!

Notes

This salad is best eaten fresh.

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Basil, often referred to as the "king of herbs," brings its unique aroma and taste to any dish it graces. Beyond its delightful flavor, basil also offers several health benefits. It is rich in vitamins A, K, and C, as well as essential minerals like potassium and magnesium. Basil contains compounds with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which may promote overall health. Consuming basil can aid digestion, reduce inflammation, and provide a fresh burst of flavor to your summer meals.

One of the most remarkable aspects of watermelon and basil is their versatility. They can be incorporated into an array of recipes, ranging from light salads to refreshing beverages - watermelon can even be grilled!

Watermelon's natural sweetness lends itself beautifully to both sweet and savory plates, and basil's aromatic profile complements a wide range of dishes.

Summer is a season synonymous with nostalgia. The scents and flavors we associate with this time of year have the power to transport us back to cherished memories. Watermelon and basil evoke the essence of summer like no other flavors.

The juiciness of watermelon and the distinct aroma of basil can transport us to carefree childhood days, enjoying picnics and poolside gatherings. These flavors remind us of the simple pleasures of summer and evoke a sense of joy and relaxation. By incorporating watermelon and basil into our meals, we can recreate these cherished moments and celebrate the spirit of summer.

I’ll admit I was skeptical about combining the crisp sweetness of watermelon with salty crumbly feta and basil, but it’s safe to say it was love at first bite and it took everything in me to share the bowl with my family instead of finishing it off myself!

I think the secret is the lime juice in the dressing - the acidity really ties together all these different flavors to create a light and refreshing snack or side salad for your summer time meals.

This watermelon salad is a versatile addition to any summer meal. It pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or as a refreshing side dish for picnics and barbecues. The combination of juicy watermelon, fragrant basil, and salty feta cheese creates a refreshing and tantalizing experience for your taste buds. Whether you're hosting a summer gathering or simply looking to elevate your daily meals, this watermelon salad is a delightful choice. Embrace the vibrant flavors of the season and enjoy the harmonious balance of sweetness, herbaceousness, and tanginess that this salad brings.

Garden-to-Plate Vegan Chickpea Salad: A Refreshing Summer Salad [Recipe]

Eating is an agricultural act. And so I believe we can’t talk about gardening without covering what to do with all the food your grow. Often times when we grow our own food, we are at the mercy of the garden and what it produces each week. This can make meal planning a challenge, so I often resort to everything but the kitchen sink recipes where you can start from a solid base and add whatever is filling your harvest basket that week.

This way of eating seasonally allows you the framework to eliminate yet another decision in your day - the ever present question of “what are we going to eat?” and turn it into a celebration of whatever ingredients are on hand. You might not know what you’ll pick tomorrow - but I can assure you if you follow the framework for this garden salad (chickpeas + the spices and liquids as a constant, some type of nut, some type of dried fruit and two crunchy fresh veggies) it will come out delicious every time.

As the warm summer days approach, there is something magical about harvesting fresh produce from your own garden and transforming it into a delectable dish. Today, I invite you to embark on a culinary adventure with a Garden-to-Plate Vegan Chickpea Salad. This recipe not only celebrates the joy of eating seasonally but also highlights the incredible flavors and health benefits of the ingredients we can grow and harvest right in our own backyard. In this blog post, we will take you on a journey through the garden, delve into the nutritional benefits of chickpeas, almonds, and chives, and guide you through the steps of creating this mouthwatering salad.

Embracing Seasonality and Celebrating Fresh Ingredients

Picture yourself strolling through your lush garden, feeling the sun on your skin, and taking in the fragrant aromas of blooming herbs. There's a sense of anticipation as you carefully pluck vibrant vegetables and herbs from their natural habitat. Eating seasonally is not only a celebration of the flavors nature provides, but it also connects us to the rhythm of the Earth.

By growing our own food, we have the opportunity to appreciate the beauty and diversity of the ingredients that surround us. From the tender greens to the vibrant vegetables, our gardens offer a cornucopia of flavors. Incorporating these freshly harvested treasures into our meals allows us to savor the true essence of each ingredient while embracing the philosophy of sustainability and self-sufficiency.

Health Benefits of Chickpeas, Almonds, and Chives

In addition to their exquisite taste, the ingredients in this vegan chickpea salad offer a plethora of health benefits that contribute to your overall well-being.

Chickpeas, a staple legume in plant-based diets, are a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with protein and fiber, chickpeas provide a satisfying and nourishing element to any dish. They are also rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as folate, iron, and magnesium. Consuming chickpeas has been linked to improved digestion, reduced cholesterol levels, and better weight management. Their nutty flavor and hearty texture make them a perfect addition to this summer salad.

Almonds, often referred to as "nature's multitaskers," bring a delightful crunch and a wealth of health benefits. These nutrient-dense nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E. Almonds are known to support heart health and boost brain function. In this salad, their presence adds a satisfying texture and nutty undertones that complement the other ingredients perfectly.

Chives, with their delicate onion-like flavor, provide more than just a pleasant taste. These leafy green herbs are a fantastic source of vitamins A, C, and K. They also offer antioxidants and potential anti-inflammatory properties. Chives not only enhance the flavor profile of the salad but also contribute to its nutritional value.

Making a Garden-to-Plate Vegan Chickpea Salad

Now that we've explored the beauty of seasonality and the health benefits of the ingredients, let's dive into creating this delicious Garden-to-Plate Vegan Chickpea Salad.

Ingredients:

chickpea salad

salad

Yield: 6

Author: The Cottage Peach

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Chickpea Garden Salad

The perfect starting point for your summer garden hauls, infinitely customizable for whatever you are picking that day

Prep time: 10 MinTotal time: 10 Min

Ingredients

• 2 cans (or 3 cups cooked) chickpeas
• 1 cup carrots
• 1 cup green onion/chives
• 1/2 cup craisins, raisins or chopped dates
• 1/2 cup almonds or cashews
• 1/2 cup radishes (optional)
• 1/3 cup hummus or mayo
• 3 tbs lemon juice
• 1 tbs curry powder
• 3/4 tsp garlic powder
• salt + pepper

Instructions

1. Chop any vegetables.
2. Mash the chickpeas until only about 1/3 is unmashed.
3. Add remaining ingredients to the chickpeas and stir.
4. Enjoy on it's own, on a bed of lettuce or with pita.

Notes

Keeps well in the fridge for 3-5 days.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

277.69

Fat

10.57

Sat. Fat

1.01

Carbs

38.26

Fiber

11.08

Net carbs

27.21

Sugar

9.66

Protein

11.84

Sodium

494.22

Cholesterol

0

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• 1 cup carrots

• 2 cans (or 3 cups cooked) chickpeas

• 1 cup green onion/chives

• 1/2 cup craisins, raisins or chopped dates

• 1/2 cup almonds or cashews

• 1/2 cup radishes (optional)

• 1/3 cup hummus or mayo

• 3 tbs lemon juice

• 1 tbs curry powder

• 3/4 tsp garlic powder

• salt + pepper

Instructions:

Chop any vegetables

In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas until about 2/3rds are mashed

Add remaining ingredients and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Allow the flavors to meld together for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Enjoy on it's own, in a pita or on a bed of lettuce.

Ways to Enjoy the Garden-to-Plate Vegan Chickpea Salad:

This versatile salad can be savored in various ways, allowing you to explore different culinary possibilities. Here are a few ideas:

Pita Pocket: Fill a warm pita bread with the chickpea salad, adding a dollop of hummus or tahini for extra creaminess. This creates a satisfying and portable meal for picnics or on-the-go lunches.

Bed of Greens: Serve the salad over a bed of fresh salad greens such as spinach or arugula for an extra burst of freshness and added nutrition.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Hollow out bell peppers and stuff them with the chickpea salad. Bake until the peppers are tender for a delightful, colorful, and healthy main course.

Lettuce Wraps: Wrap the salad in large lettuce leaves, such as romaine or butter lettuce, for a light and refreshing option.

With the Garden-to-Plate Vegan Chickpea Salad, you can embark on a culinary journey that celebrates seasonality, garden-fresh ingredients, and the benefits of a plant-based diet. By savoring this delightful salad, you not only nourish your body with the nutritional goodness of chickpeas, almonds, and chives but also appreciate the joy of growing your own food. So, take advantage of the bountiful flavors of summer, cultivate your own garden-to-plate experience, and delight in the refreshing taste of this vibrant vegan salad recipe.