Watermelon Carpaccio with Feta: An Elegant Summer Appetizer

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Watermelon Carpaccio with Feta is a unique and elegant twist on a traditional appetizer. The cool, crisp watermelon pairs wonderfully with the salty feta and the crunch of pistachios, while the balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that balances everything perfectly. The freshness of basil adds an herbaceous note that ties all the flavors together. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for summer dinners, picnics, or as a light starter at any meal.

Ingredients

• Main Ingredients:
  • 300 g watermelon
  • 30 g feta cheese
  • 10 pistachios
• Dressing & Garnish:
  • 1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp balsamic glaze
  • Fresh basil leaves

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Watermelon: Using a mandoline, slice the watermelon into thin, carpaccio-style slices.
2. Chill the Watermelon: Place the watermelon slices in the freezer for 10 minutes to firm up and enhance the texture.
3. Assemble the Carpaccio: Arrange the chilled watermelon slices on a serving plate. Top with crushed pistachios, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh basil leaves.
4. Drizzle with Dressing: Just before serving, drizzle the carpaccio with extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze for added flavor and shine.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 2 servings (2 appetizer portions)
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

1. Add More Toppings: Feel free to add extra toppings such as thinly sliced red onions, mint leaves, or a drizzle of honey for additional flavor complexity.
2. Make it Vegan: Swap the feta for a plant-based cheese alternative to make this dish vegan.
3. Use Different Nuts: If you prefer, you can replace pistachios with other nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pine nuts for a different crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: This dish is best served immediately after assembling to maintain the crisp texture of the watermelon. If you need to store leftovers, refrigerate the watermelon slices and toppings separately and assemble just before serving.
• Reheating: There is no need to reheat this dish. Serve it cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

While it’s best served immediately, you can prepare the watermelon slices and toppings ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble them right before serving.

Can I use a different type of melon?

Yes! You can substitute the watermelon with other melons like cantaloupe or honeydew for a variation on the flavors.

Can I use balsamic vinegar instead of balsamic glaze?

Yes, you can use balsamic vinegar, but balsamic glaze is thicker and sweeter, which adds a richer flavor and better texture to the dish.

What can I use instead of feta?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, you can try using vegan feta or a creamy plant-based cheese as a substitute.

Can I serve this as a main dish?

While this recipe is designed as an appetizer, you can easily make it a light main course by increasing the portions or pairing it with a simple side dish like a mixed green salad or quinoa.

Conclusion

Watermelon Carpaccio with Feta is a light, refreshing, and visually stunning appetizer that’s perfect for summer. The combination of sweet watermelon, salty feta, crunchy pistachios, and tangy balsamic glaze makes every bite a delicious balance of flavors and textures. Quick to prepare and sure to impress, this is a must-try dish for any summer gathering or dinner party.

Watermelon Carpaccio with Feta: An Elegant Summer Appetizer

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• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: undefined
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings (2 appetizer portions)
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Assembly
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Watermelon Carpaccio with Feta is a refreshing and elegant summer appetizer made with thinly sliced frozen watermelon, crumbled feta, pistachios, and fresh basil, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze.

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

300 g watermelon

30 g feta cheese

10 pistachios

Dressing & Garnish:

1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil

1 tsp balsamic glaze

Fresh basil leaves

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Watermelon: Using a mandoline, slice the watermelon into thin, carpaccio-style slices.
2. Chill the Watermelon: Place the watermelon slices in the freezer for 10 minutes to firm up and enhance the texture.
3. Assemble the Carpaccio: Arrange the chilled watermelon slices on a serving plate. Top with crushed pistachios, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh basil leaves.
4. Drizzle with Dressing: Just before serving, drizzle the carpaccio with extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze for added flavor and shine.

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Notes

If you’re making this dish ahead of time, prepare the watermelon and toppings separately and assemble just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

For a different flavor, try using other melons such as cantaloupe or honeydew.

For a dairy-free option, substitute feta with a plant-based cheese alternative.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 10mg