Melon and Blistered Pepper Salad
Recipe Author: Gracie Schatz
A bright, refreshing salad that balances sweet, smoky, and salty in every bite. Juicy melon and crisp cucumbers are paired with blistered peppers and tossed in a bold, smoky vinaigrette, then finished with creamy feta and fresh herbs. It’s a vibrant, late-summer dish that’s as beautiful as it is flavorful.
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 small ripe melon (preferably cantaloupe), rind and seeds removed, cut into 1" chunks
- 2 thin-skinned cucumbers, cut into 1" chunks
- 1/2 lb Jimmy Nardello peppers
- 1 pint shishito or padrón peppers
- Handful of fresh basil, mint, and/or cilantro leaves
- 1/2 pint feta, broken into bite-sized pieces
For the Dressing:
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and grated on a microplane
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup sherry vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- A handful of edible flowers (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Dressing:
Mix Ingredients: Combine the grated garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and sherry vinegar in a bowl. Whisk to combine.
Add Oil:Gradually whisk in the olive oil until the dressing is well emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside.
Prepare the Salad:
Blister the Peppers: Toss the Jimmy Nardello and shishito (or padrón) peppers in a bit of olive oil. Heat a grill or a large cast iron pan over high heat. Cook the peppers until they begin to blister and wilt, about 5-7 minutes.
Season and Cool: Remove the peppers from the heat, sprinkle with salt, and allow them to cool. Once cooled, cut the peppers into bite-sized pieces and discard the stems.
Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the melon, blistered peppers, and cucumber chunks. Toss with the prepared vinaigrette.
Finish and Serve: Crumble the feta over the top of the salad. Garnish with fresh basil, mint, or cilantro leaves, and edible flowers if using. Serve immediately.
Notes:
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh and can be served as a light meal or a refreshing side dish.
- The combination of sweet melon and smoky, blistered peppers creates a delicious contrast in flavors and textures.
