¼ Florida watermelon, peeled and cut into 6-8 bars (candy bar-size)
1 ½ cups feta cheese
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon fresh herbs (thyme, parsley), chopped fine and separated in half (plus more for garnish)
2 teaspoons fresh garlic, minced and separated in half
1 teaspoon all-purpose seasoning (Everglades)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ cup quality olive oil, plus 2 tablespoons
1 tablespoon quality vinegar
1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes (if desired for heat)
½ teaspoon lime zest
1 cup assorted olives, pitted
Sea salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste
In a food processor, combine the feta, yogurt, half the herbs, half the minced garlic, seasoning blend and smoked paprika. Process the ingredients while slowly drizzling the ¼ cup of olive oil. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Keep refrigerated until use.
In a small bowl, combine the vinegar, other half of the garlic, other half of the herbs, chili flakes and lime zest. Whisk while slowly adding the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Taste and adjust the seasoning of the vinaigrette with salt and pepper. Evenly add the vinaigrette to the cut watermelon. Let marinate covered in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. To assemble, spread a base of the whipped feta on a small platter or large plate. Place the marinated watermelon bars on the bed of whipped feta. Garnish the dish with assorted olives, fresh herbs, and any leftover lime zest and chili flakes. Serve cold.
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