A bright, refreshing salad with a sweet and tangy vinaigrette — perfect for summer.

By Timothy Witcher, Executive Chef, FoodSmart USA • updated June 23, 2025

From the Clifford Brown Jazz Festival / MobileMusicLab.com Healthy Choices Demonstration Kitchen

Prep Time: 20 min

Chill Time: 15 min

Serves: 4–6

Ingredients — For the Salad:

• 3 cups small-diced watermelon

• ½ cup minced red onion

• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 2 tbsp fresh basil, thinly sliced

• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

• 2 jalapeños, minced (remove seeds and ribs for less heat)

• ½ cup red bell pepper, small-diced

Ingredients — For the Champagne-Honey Dressing:

• 1 tbsp champagne vinegar

• 1 tbsp local honey

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

Instructions

Prepare the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the champagne vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Gradually

whisk in the olive oil until emulsified.

Assemble the Salad:

In a large mixing bowl, combine watermelon, red onion, feta cheese, basil, cilantro, jalapeños,

and red bell pepper.

Dress the Salad:

Drizzle the dressing over the salad. Gently toss to coat. Season lightly with sea salt.

Chill:

Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Serve:

Serve chilled over your choice of fresh salad greens.