Watermelon basil salad is like summer on your plate! The tangy zip of the vinaigrette is perfect with the creamy goat cheese and shredded basil. This salad is so refreshing, especially on hot days.
And the best part? It’s super easy to make! Watermelon basil salad with balsamic dressing is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your guests while keeping your prep time to a minimum. So why not add a little summer flair to your BBQ spread with this delightful salad?
What do I need to make a watermelon basil salad?
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil leaves?
Yes, you can use dried basil in this salad, but we recommend fresh basil leaves for the stronger taste and pop of color.
Why make the vinaigrette dressing instead of just buying it?
You can certainly dress this salad in bottled salad dressing, but homemade vinaigrette is easy to whip up and tastes so fresh! Plus, it’s budget-friendly—you can make a cup of vinaigrette for pennies!
Store the prepared dressing in a tightly-fitted jar for up to 3 weeks in the fridge. Anytime you want tasty homemade dressing, just give it a shake and drizzle a bit from the jar.
How do I make this watermelon basil goat cheese salad?
Make the dressing. Let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
Chop up the watermelon. Add the pieces to a big salad bowl.
Crumble the goat cheese over the watermelon. Save a bit for serving.
Slice basil leaves and sprinkle in the bowl. Again, save a bit for serving.
Drizzle the dressing on top. Toss to coat the salad in the dressing.
Top the salad with the remaining cheese & basil. Serve and enjoy!
Protip: Garnish before serving!
We think this salad looks best with extra cheese and basil on top, so be sure to save a sprinkle of each to top off the salad.
I’m hosting a party—can I make this watermelon basil salad in advance?
You can cube the watermelon and add the goat cheese to a salad bowl, but we suggest waiting to add the basil and salad dressing until it is time to serve the salad.
How do I store leftovers of this watermelon salad recipe with basil?
Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What do I serve with watermelon basil salad?
We love to pair this refreshing salad with a side of bread. Try these Easy Drop Biscuits or Honey Cornbread for simply delicious homemade sides.
If served at a cookout, watermelon basil salad goes great with a pitcher of Sun Tea, Strawberry Lemonade, or Fruit Infused Water. So refreshing!
Looking for more easy salads to enjoy this season? We’ve got plenty!
Ingredients
1 tablespoon balsamic vinaigrette, plus more for serving
1 mini seedless watermelon (about 6 pounds)
4 ounces honey goat cheese OR plain goat cheese with 1/2 tablespoon of honey (see notes)
6 basil leaves
Instructions
Notes
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6
Serving Size: 1 serving
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 102Total Fat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 4mgSodium: 45mgCarbohydrates: 21gFiber: 0gSugar: 20gProtein: 2g
At Wholefully, we believe that good nutrition is about much more than just the numbers on the nutrition facts panel. Please use the above information as only a small part of what helps you decide what foods are nourishing for you.