Vegan Watermelon & Arugula Salad with Basil Key Lime Vinaigrette

Ingredients:

For the Salad:
  • 4 cups arugula
  • 2 cups cubed watermelon
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional, for added crunch)
  • 1/4 cup vegan feta cheese or vegan cheese of choice (optional)
For the Basil Key Lime Vinaigrette:
  • 1/8 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 3-4 key limes (about 1/4 cup)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
    • In a large salad bowl, combine arugula, cubed watermelon, thinly sliced red onion, torn basil leaves, and chopped walnuts (if using). Optionally, sprinkle vegan feta cheese or your preferred vegan cheese over the salad ingredients.
  2. Make the Basil Key Lime Vinaigrette:
    • In a mason jar or small bowl, combine extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed key lime juice, finely chopped basil, dried thyme, onion powder, ginger powder, cayenne pepper, and sea salt.
  3. Shake Vigorously:
    • Secure the lid on the mason jar and shake vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and the vinaigrette has emulsified.
  4. Dress the Salad:
    • Pour the Basil Key Lime Vinaigrette over the salad ingredients in the bowl. Use tongs or salad servers to toss the salad gently until evenly coated with the dressing.
  5. Serve:
    • Divide the salad into serving plates or bowls. Garnish with additional basil leaves or a wedge of key lime if desired. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information (per serving, without optional walnuts and vegan feta cheese):

  • Calories: Approximately 150 kcal
  • Protein: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 5g

SmartPoints (WW):

  • Each serving of the Vegan Watermelon & Arugula Salad with Basil Key Lime Vinaigrette is approximately 3 SmartPoints on the WW (Weight Watchers) program.

Tips:

  • Choosing Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients used are vegan-certified, especially the cheese and any pre-packaged items like key lime juice.
  • Make-Ahead: You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time and store them separately from the vinaigrette. Dress the salad just before serving to maintain freshness.
  • Customization: Feel free to add other seasonal fruits or vegetables to the salad, such as strawberries or cucumber, for variation.
  • Health Benefits: This salad is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from the arugula, watermelon, and basil. The vinaigrette provides healthy fats from olive oil and refreshing citrus notes from key lime juice.
  • Allergen Information: Double-check ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs, especially if you have allergies or sensitivities to nuts, gluten, or other specific ingredients.

Vegan Watermelon & Arugula Salad with Basil Key Lime Vinaigrette is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines sweet and savory flavors with a zesty dressing. Enjoy this salad as a light lunch or a side dish for summer gatherings!