Watermelon Blueberry Salad

This Watermelon Blueberry Salad is a vibrant and delicious dish that brings together the sweetness of summer. It’s perfect for gatherings, picnics, or simply enjoying on a hot day. With fresh watermelon, juicy blueberries, and a hint of basil, this salad is not only refreshing but also incredibly easy to make. Ideal for 4th of July celebrations or any sunny occasion, it truly stands out with its colorful presentation and delightful flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of fruits creates a sweet and tangy profile that invigorates your palate.
• Quick Preparation: This salad takes just 10 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal last-minute dish.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side for barbecues, or a light dessert; it fits any occasion seamlessly.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins from fresh fruits and healthy fats from olive oil, it’s both tasty and nutritious.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients are sure to impress guests at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Watermelon Blueberry Salad, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline your preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Ideal for blending the vinaigrette smoothly.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts of the fruits and cheese for better presentation.

Ingredients

This festive watermelon blueberry salad with raspberries, blackberries, basil, mozzarella and a simple lemon vinaigrette is perfect for 4th of July celebrations or any hot summer day! It’s refreshing, super easy to make and a serious crowd-pleaser.

Fruits

• 4 cups watermelon, sliced into 1 cubes
• 2 cups blueberries
• 1 cup raspberries
• 1 cup blackberries

Cheese & Herbs

• 8 oz mozzarella, cubed into ½ inch pieces
• 6-8 large basil leaves, sliced thinly

Dressing Ingredients

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tbsp champagne vinegar
• ¼ tsp salt
• Pepper to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Watermelon Blueberry Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, champagne vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the watermelon cubes, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, basil leaves, and mozzarella pieces.
2. Pour the vinaigrette over the fruit mixture.
3. Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing.

Step 3: Serve or Chill

1. For immediate serving, top with additional fresh basil if desired.
2. Alternatively, refrigerate the salad for about one hour before serving for enhanced flavor melding.

Enjoy this delightful Watermelon Blueberry Salad at your next event or as a refreshing treat on a warm day!

How to Serve Watermelon Blueberry Salad

This refreshing Watermelon Blueberry Salad is not just delicious; it’s also very versatile. Here are some great serving suggestions that will enhance your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish for a light and colorful meal.
• Serve alongside barbecue dishes for a perfect summer cookout complement.

On a Buffet Table

• This salad makes an excellent centerpiece for a buffet, drawing attention with its vibrant colors.
• Offer it at parties to add a festive touch, especially during summer gatherings.

For Meal Prep

• Pack portions in mason jars for an easy grab-and-go lunch option during busy weekdays.
• Store the salad in the fridge for up to 1 hour before serving to keep it fresh.

As a Breakfast Option

• Top Greek yogurt with this salad for a nutritious and energizing breakfast.
• Use as a topping on overnight oats for added sweetness and texture.

How to Perfect Watermelon Blueberry Salad

To ensure your Watermelon Blueberry Salad is always a hit, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe fruit: Select ripe watermelon and berries to enhance the flavor of your salad.
• Cut uniformly: Ensure all fruit is cut into similar sizes for an appealing presentation and easier eating.
• Chill before serving: Refrigerate your salad for about an hour before serving to make it extra refreshing.
• Add fresh herbs: Incorporate mint or cilantro along with basil for added layers of flavor.
• Customize the vinaigrette: Feel free to adjust the lemon juice or vinegar to match your taste preferences.
• Serve immediately: For best taste and texture, serve the salad right after tossing to prevent sogginess.

Best Side Dishes for Watermelon Blueberry Salad

Watermelon Blueberry Salad pairs wonderfully with many side dishes. Here are some tasty options that will complete your meal.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky corn complements the sweetness of the salad perfectly. Brush with butter and sprinkle with salt before grilling.
2. Caprese Skewers: Mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil on skewers make a delightful appetizer that matches well.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds depth to your meal. Season simply with olive oil and salt.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta provides protein and balances flavors nicely.
5. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad dressed in vinaigrette can serve as a filling side while keeping it light and summery.
6. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread offers a satisfying crunch alongside the freshness of the watermelon blueberry salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Watermelon Blueberry Salad even better. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using Overripe Fruit: Using overly ripe watermelon or berries can lead to a mushy salad. Select fresh, firm fruit for the best texture.
• Skipping the Vinaigrette: The vinaigrette adds flavor and ties the ingredients together. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for a delicious salad.
• Cutting Uniformity: Cutting fruits into uneven sizes can affect how they mix and present. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure even flavor distribution.
• Not Chilling Before Serving: Serving this salad immediately can mean missing out on the refreshing taste. Chill it for at least an hour for enhanced flavors.
• Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil elevates the salad’s flavor. Don’t substitute dried herbs; fresh basil is key to a vibrant taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Best consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Watermelon Blueberry Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture; however, you can freeze individual fruits before preparation.
• If you must freeze, store in a freezer-safe container and consume within one month.

Reheating Watermelon Blueberry Salad

• Oven: Not recommended as this salad is meant to be enjoyed cold and fresh.
• Microwave: Avoid reheating in the microwave as it will alter the texture.
• Stovetop: Not suitable for reheating; serve chilled only.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize my Watermelon Blueberry Salad?

You can add nuts like walnuts or almonds for crunch, or swap mozzarella with feta cheese for a tangy twist.

What other fruits can I include in my Watermelon Blueberry Salad?

Feel free to add strawberries, kiwi, or peaches based on your preference and seasonal availability.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad up to a day in advance but add the dressing just before serving for maximum freshness.

How do I serve Watermelon Blueberry Salad at a party?

Serve in a large bowl with extra basil on top for decoration. Individual cups also make great servings at gatherings.

Final Thoughts

This Watermelon Blueberry Salad is not only refreshing but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. With its bright colors and delightful flavors, it’s ideal for summer parties or family gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or herbs! Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious burst of summer flavors!

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Watermelon Blueberry Salad

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Brighten up your summer gatherings with this vibrant Watermelon Blueberry Salad. Featuring juicy watermelon, plump blueberries, and fresh basil, this dish is a delightful mix of sweet and tangy flavors that embodies the essence of summer. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or simply as a light dessert on warm days, it takes just 10 minutes to prepare. The addition of mozzarella adds a creamy texture, while the lemon vinaigrette brings everything together beautifully. This salad not only looks stunning on the table but also offers a refreshing bite that will impress your guests at any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups watermelon, cubed
• 2 cups blueberries
• 1 cup raspberries
• 1 cup blackberries
• 8 oz mozzarella, cubed
• 6–8 large basil leaves, sliced
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp champagne vinegar
• salt and pepper

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Instructions

1. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, champagne vinegar, salt, and pepper until combined.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together watermelon cubes, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, basil leaves, and mozzarella. Drizzle with dressing and gently mix until coated.
3. Serve: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for one hour to enhance flavors before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 10mg