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Fresh Watermelon Feta Protein Salad with Grilled Shrimp

Fresh Watermelon Feta Protein Salad - featured image
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A refreshing summer salad combining juicy watermelon, salty feta, and grilled shrimp with a tangy chili lime dressing. Perfect for quick, light, and satisfying meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups watermelon, cubed (ripe, seedless)
  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (mild or medium)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for shrimp marinade)
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (for shrimp marinade)
  • Pinch of salt (for shrimp marinade)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, a pinch of salt, and minced garlic. Toss the shrimp in this marinade and let it sit for 10-15 minutes while prepping other ingredients.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, honey, remaining chili powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside to let flavors meld.
  3. Cube the watermelon into bite-sized pieces, dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and chop the mint leaves. Place all into a large mixing bowl along with the crumbled feta cheese.
  4. Heat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque with grill marks. Avoid overcooking. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  5. Add grilled shrimp to the watermelon mixture. Drizzle chili lime dressing over the top and gently toss until evenly coated. Taste and adjust salt or lime juice if needed.
  6. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor. Refrigerate leftovers separately and dress just before serving.

Notes

If you want to save time, prep the dressing and chop veggies ahead and grill shrimp last minute. Watch shrimp closely to avoid overcooking. Gently drain excess watermelon juice before tossing to prevent sogginess. Optional toppings include toasted pepitas or chopped pistachios for crunch. Protein swaps include grilled chicken or seared tofu. Dairy-free options use avocado or vegan feta substitutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: watermelon salad, grilled shrimp, feta cheese, chili lime dressing, summer salad, protein salad, quick salad, healthy salad

Find it online: https://sweetstirring.com/fresh-watermelon-feta-protein-salad-with-grilled-shrimp-easy-recipe/