Summer is a season of vibrant flavors, refreshing produce, and gatherings that call for simple yet spectacular dishes. Today, we’re diving into a culinary delight that perfectly embodies the spirit of summer: a vibrant Tomato and Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese. Our dear friend Jaden is currently immersed in the exciting chaos of moving, surrounded by paint, tiles, and packing boxes. So, she’s entrusted us with the wonderful task of introducing you to this incredible recipe from the internationally acclaimed Chef Zov Karamardian. We had the pleasure of meeting Zov at a recent IACP event and were captivated by her passion for fresh, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. This particular salad, with its stunning visual appeal and explosion of flavors, truly stands out as an ideal accompaniment for your next barbecue or a light, refreshing lunch. It comes straight from her acclaimed cookbook, Simply Zov: Rustic Classics with a Mediterranean Twist.
Discovering Culinary Excellence: Chef Zov Karamardian and Simply Zov
Established in 1987 by the visionary Chef Zov Karamardian, Zov’s Bistro & Bakery in Tustin, California, has blossomed into a cherished culinary institution. Chef Zov’s philosophy centers around a masterful blend of contemporary flavors with the rich traditions of Eastern Mediterranean cuisine. This unique fusion is vividly showcased throughout the pages of her latest cookbook, Simply Zov: Rustic Classics with a Mediterranean Twist. Her approach to cooking is refreshingly accessible, making complex flavors achievable for home cooks, inspiring confidence that we can replicate her restaurant-quality dishes in our own kitchens.
Flipping through Simply Zov is a journey of culinary inspiration. Adam and I have already earmarked several recipes that have captured our imagination. Among them are her irresistible Parmesan Bruschetta, the delicate and flavorful Tomato-Basil Risotto Fritters, and, of course, the show-stopping Greek Burger with Baby Arugula and Feta, featured prominently on the cookbook’s cover. Each recipe promises an adventure in taste, a testament to Chef Zov’s ability to elevate classic dishes with a distinctive Mediterranean flair. Her dedication to fresh ingredients and balanced flavors shines through every dish, making this cookbook an essential addition for anyone looking to bring a taste of Zov’s renowned bistro into their home.
The Irresistible Harmony: Tomato and Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese
Prepare to be genuinely surprised by the delightful synergy between watermelon and feta cheese in this extraordinary salad. This combination, perhaps unconventional at first glance, creates a symphony of flavors that is both unexpected and utterly addictive. Each bite offers a burst of salty, sweet, and incredibly refreshing notes, making it a true keeper for your recipe collection. This salad isn’t just a dish; it’s an inventive celebration of summer’s bounty, designed to make the most of seasonal produce at its peak. The juicy sweetness of watermelon complements the subtle acidity of ripe tomatoes, while the salty creaminess of feta cheese ties everything together with a Mediterranean touch.
When selecting ingredients, I highly recommend using heirloom tomatoes whenever they are available. Their diverse colors, irregular shapes, and superior flavor elevate the salad from delicious to truly exceptional. The vibrant hues of red, yellow, and orange heirloom tomatoes add not only visual appeal but also a complex depth of flavor that standard tomatoes often lack. This salad pairs beautifully with grilled fish, offering a light and zesty contrast, or alongside a robust grilled steak, where its freshness cuts through the richness, creating a perfectly balanced meal.
This recipe, generously shared with us, hails directly from Zov Karamardian’s latest culinary creation, Simply Zov: Rustic Classics with a Mediterranean Twist. It’s a testament to her philosophy of simple, fresh, and flavorful cooking that brings joy to every plate.
Tomato and Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese
You will be pleasantly surprised at how harmoniously watermelon and feta work together. This salad is a masterpiece of contrasts: salty, sweet, and incredibly refreshing, with every bite bursting with vibrant flavor. It’s truly a keeper, offering an inventive and delicious way to celebrate and make the most of peak summer produce. For the best taste and visual appeal, I highly recommend using heirloom tomatoes when you can find them. This versatile salad serves as an excellent side dish for a variety of main courses, including grilled fish or a perfectly seared grilled steak.
Print Recipe
Prep Time: 15 mins
Servings: 6 as a side
Ingredients
Red Wine Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Salad:
- 1 small cucumber, peeled
- 1/2 small red onion
- 3 heirloom tomatoes (about 12 ounces total), cut into bite-size chunks
- 3 1/2 cups peeled, seeded, bite-size watermelon chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into bite-size chunks
- 7 ounces French feta cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (see note)
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves, thinly sliced
Instructions
MAKE THE VINAIGRETTE:
- Whisk the vinegar, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl until thoroughly blended. Gradually whisk in the extra-virgin olive oil until a smooth, emulsified vinaigrette forms. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
MAKE THE SALAD:
- Prepare the cucumber by cutting it in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, carefully scrape out and discard the seeds. Then, cut the cucumber halves crosswise into thin half-moon slices. Using a mandoline or a very sharp knife, thinly slice the red onion into 1-inch-long, paper-thin pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, red onion, bite-size heirloom tomato chunks, watermelon chunks, and red bell pepper. Add the French feta cheese cubes and the thinly sliced fresh mint leaves.
- Pour enough of the prepared red wine vinaigrette over the salad ingredients to lightly coat everything. Gently toss to combine, ensuring all components are well-dressed. Serve the salad immediately to enjoy its peak freshness and vibrant flavors.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Salad
Do-Ahead Tip:
The red wine vinaigrette is an excellent component to prepare in advance. It can be made up to 1 week ahead of time, saving you precious minutes on the day of serving. Simply store it in a tightly-sealed jar in the refrigerator. Before using, allow the vinaigrette to stand at room temperature for about 20 minutes; this helps the olive oil liquefy and return to its optimal consistency. Then, give it a good shake to re-emulsify the ingredients before dressing your salad.
Cook’s Notes for Optimal Flavor:
- Choosing Feta: While traditional feta is often made from Greek sheep’s milk, I personally prefer the French variety for this salad. French feta typically offers a milder, creamier taste that beautifully complements the sweetness of the watermelon and tomatoes without overpowering them. However, feel free to use your preferred type of feta.
- Storing Tomatoes: Always store your fresh tomatoes at room temperature, ideally in a decorative basket in your kitchen, away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration can significantly diminish their flavor and alter their texture, making them mealy or pulpy. Room temperature storage preserves their natural sweetness and firm texture.
- Preparing Tomatoes: To maintain the best flavor and prevent oxidation, avoid cutting or slicing the tomatoes too far ahead of time. When exposed to air for prolonged periods, cut tomatoes can oxidize and develop an undesirable acidic taste. For the freshest salad, prepare your tomatoes just before assembling and serving.
Serving Suggestions and Perfect Pairings
This Tomato and Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese is incredibly versatile and makes a stunning accompaniment to a wide array of summer meals. Beyond grilled fish and steak, consider serving it alongside roasted chicken, lamb chops, or even a hearty vegetarian main course like grilled halloumi or a substantial lentil burger. Its refreshing qualities make it an ideal counterpoint to rich or savory dishes. For a lighter meal, it stands beautifully on its own or as part of a Mediterranean mezze platter with hummus, olives, and warm pita bread. Pair it with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé for an exquisite dining experience.
Customizing Your Salad: Delicious Variations
While the original recipe is perfection, feel free to experiment with slight variations to suit your taste. For an extra herbaceous note, consider adding fresh basil leaves alongside the mint, or a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh oregano. If you prefer a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be a delightful addition. For added crunch and a nutty flavor, toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds can be gently folded in. Explore different types of bell peppers, such as yellow or orange, to enhance the visual appeal, or substitute the red onion with milder shallots if you prefer a less pungent flavor. This salad is wonderfully adaptable, inviting your personal touch.
From the refreshing embrace of juicy watermelon to the tangy kiss of ripe tomatoes and the creamy texture of feta, this salad is a true culinary gem. It’s a dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also brings a splash of summer’s vibrant beauty to your table. We hope you enjoy crafting and savoring this incredible creation from Chef Zov Karamardian!
Explore More Refreshing Salad Ideas
Summer Tomato Salad by David Lebovitz
Watermelon Salad with Feta or Cotija by Simply Recipes
Young Coconut Salad Recipe by Herbivoracious
Watermelon Salad with Feta, Mint and Lime by Whipped