It’s a classic for a reason: cooling cucumber, sweet watermelon, and salty cheese. This updated version is studded with thinly-sliced radishes for a peppery bite (look for pretty watermelon radishes) and Aleppo pepper for a spicy kick. Aleppo pepper is a ground chili pepper traditionally hailing from Syria that is loved for its mild heat and fruity tang. (Feel free to swap in crushed red pepper if you can’t find it.) Don’t be surprised by the amount of white balsamic vinegar in this salad recipe. It’s intentional and keeps the flavors ultra-sharp while balancing the sweetness of the watermelon. Go wild with the finishing drizzle of olive oil as its slickness and richness take this dish from fruit salad territory to savory salad deliciousness.
Try other melons, such as cantaloupe or honeydew, instead of watermelon. Swap the feta cheese for goat cheese for a creamier, tangier option.
