📖 Instructions

1. First, cook the quinoa: Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water. This helps to remove any bitterness. Place the quinoa in a medium saucepan with 2 cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let it cool completely. Fluff it with a fork.
2. Next, prep the watermelon: Cut about 4 cups of watermelon into 1/2-inch cubes. Remove any seeds as you go. I like to use a seedless watermelon to make things easier, but if you can't find one, don't sweat it. Just take the time to pick out the seeds.
3. Now, crumble the feta: You'll need about 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese. I prefer to buy a block of feta and crumble it myself, as it tends to have a better flavor and texture than the pre-crumbled stuff. But, again, use what you have! It will still taste great.
4. Time for the mint: Roughly chop about 1/4 cup of fresh mint leaves. Mint is a flavor powerhouse, so don't skimp on it! If you're not a huge fan of mint, you can substitute it with basil or cilantro, but it won't be quite the same.
5. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lime juice (or lemon juice), 1 tablespoon of honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Some people prefer a sweeter dressing, while others like it more tangy. Experiment and find what works best for you.
6. Combine everything: In a large bowl, gently combine the cooled quinoa, cubed watermelon, crumbled feta, and chopped mint. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Be careful not to overmix, as the watermelon can get mushy.
7. Chill (optional): For the best flavor, cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. However, it's also delicious served immediately, so don't feel like you have to wait!
8. Serve and enjoy: This salad is fantastic on its own as a light lunch, or as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. Garnish with extra mint leaves or a sprinkle of feta, if desired. What does this mean for you? Summer is here.