Watermelon Feta Salad with Candied Bacon and Citrus Mint Vinaigrette

This refreshing salad combines mixed greens, juicy watermelon, candied bacon, and feta cheese, topped with a tangy citrus mint vinaigrette for a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and bright flavors.

This vibrant and refreshing watermelon feta salad brings together a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Juicy watermelon cubes are paired with crispy candied bacon, tangy crumbled feta cheese, and fresh mixed greens, creating a savory-sweet harmony. The salad is elevated by a zesty citrus mint vinaigrette made with fresh orange and lime juices, honey, Dijon mustard, and finely chopped mint. The caramelized bacon adds a perfect hint of sweetness and crunch, while the vinaigrette ties all the ingredients together with a burst of fresh, tangy flavor. Ideal for a summer meal, this salad is both light and satisfying.

Servings

2

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

20 minutes

Total Time

35 minutes

For the Salad
4 cups mixed greens
3 cups watermelon, cut into cubes
6 slices bacon
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

For the Citrus Mint Vinaigrette
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking the Candied Bacon
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lay 6 slices bacon on a parchment-lined baking sheet and sprinkle evenly with ¼ cup brown sugar. Bake for about 15–20 minutes until the bacon is crispy and caramelized. Remove from the oven and let it cool, then chop or crumble into bite-sized pieces.

Preparing the Citrus Mint Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup fresh orange juice, 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, 1 tablespoon honey, and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard until combined. Slowly drizzle in ¼ cup olive oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing. Stir in 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assembling the Salad
In a large bowl, combine 4 cups mixed greens with 3 cups cubed watermelon. Add ½ cup crumbled feta cheese and the cooled candied bacon pieces, tossing gently to distribute.

Finishing and Serving
Drizzle the citrus mint vinaigrette over the salad just before serving and toss lightly to coat. Serve immediately for the best balance of crisp, sweet, and refreshing flavors.