Marinated Mozzarella Melon Salad
User Reviews
5
Marinated Mozzarella Melon Salad
Description
The salad combines fresh mozzarella balls, drained of their brine, with watermelon and cucumber shaped into balls for a pleasing presentation and texture contrast. The dressing is made from olive oil, lemon and lime juices, chopped fresh basil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, which adds a subtle heat component. This dressing is whisked and poured over the mozzarella before refrigerating briefly to absorb flavors.
The watermelon and cucumber balls are then added and gently tossed with the marinated mozzarella and dressing. The salad benefits from a chill in the fridge for about an hour, which allows the flavors to meld while maintaining the crispness of the cucumber and the freshness of the melon and cheese. Fresh basil sprinkled on top adds an herbal brightness at serving.
This salad works well as a light starter or a refreshing side dish during warm weather meals. The combination of creamy cheese and sweet, juicy melon is balanced by the acidity and herbal notes in the dressing, producing a layered flavor profile.
Ingredients
- 1 mozzarella fresh balls in water; drained; 8 ounces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon juiced
- 1 lime juiced
- 2 tablespoons basil plus extra for sprinkling, chopped, fresh
- 2 garlic minced, cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano dried
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes crushed
- 2 cups watermelon about 1/2 large watermelon, balls
- 1 1/2 cups cucumber about 3 seedless cucumbers, shaped into balls
Instructions
- Place the mozzarella ball in a bowl. In a smaller bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon and lime juice, basil, garlic, oregano, salt and pepper. Pour it over the mozzarella and stick it in the fridge while you use a melon baller to scoop out the watermelon and cucumber.
- Place the watermelon and cucumber in a large bowl. Pour the mozzarella and all the dressing contents in the bowl with the melon and toss well. You can keep this is the fridge for about an hour before serving. Top with extra fresh basil and herbs before serving and toss well!
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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