Watermelon Feta “Pizza” with Mint Pesto Drizzle
A juicy, crisp slice of summer: sweet watermelon “crust” topped with salty feta, fresh herbs, and a zingy mint pesto. No oven. No fuss. Just pure patio-perfect refreshment.
Equipment
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Small blender, food processor, or mortar and pestle (for pesto)
- Spoon for drizzling
- Optional: melon baller for decorative scoops
Ingredients
For the “Pizza”
- 1 medium seedless watermelon round is best
- ½ cup feta cheese crumbled
- 2 tbsp toasted pistachios or pepitas
- 1 –2 tbsp fresh mint chiffonade or torn
- Optional: sliced cucumber red onion slivers, or edible flowers
- Fresh lime or lemon wedges for serving
For the Mint Pesto Drizzle
- ½ cup fresh mint leaves loosely packed
- ¼ cup fresh basil optional for balance
- 2 tbsp toasted pistachios or almonds
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 small garlic clove
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Pinch of sea salt and black pepper
Instructions
Instructions
Make the Mint Pesto
- In a small blender or food processor, combine mint, basil (if using), garlic, nuts, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pulse until finely chopped. With the motor running, drizzle in olive oil until emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning. Set aside.
- 💡 Shortcut: For a quicker version, mix finely chopped mint, lemon juice, and olive oil in a small bowl, no blending needed.
Slice the Watermelon “Crust”
- Cut a 1-inch thick round cross-section from the center of your watermelon. Lay it flat and slice into 6–8 wedges, like a pizza.
- 🍉 Tip: Chill the watermelon for a few hours before slicing for clean cuts and better texture.
Assemble the Pizza
- Arrange the watermelon “pizza” slices on a large platter or wooden board. Crumble feta over each slice, sprinkle mint, and scatter pistachios on top.
Drizzle & Finish
- Drizzle each slice with mint pesto. Add any optional toppings (like cucumber or edible flowers), and finish with a quick squeeze of lime or lemon juice just before serving.
Serve Immediately
- This is a fresh, crisp dish best served chilled and immediately after assembly. It doesn’t hold up well to long waits but it disappears fast anyway!
Notes
Variations & Flavor Upgrades
Variation Try This
Spicy Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle of hot honey
Creamy Add a few dollops of Greek yogurt or labneh
Tropical Top with mango, pineapple, or grilled halloumi
Savory-sweet Swap pesto for a balsamic glaze and a touch of cracked black pepper
Spicy Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle of hot honey
Creamy Add a few dollops of Greek yogurt or labneh
Tropical Top with mango, pineapple, or grilled halloumi
Savory-sweet Swap pesto for a balsamic glaze and a touch of cracked black pepper
Nutrition
Calories: 1121kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 3gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 22gFiber: 1gSugar: 7g
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