So, last night we had a casual dinner party at our place with some of our closest friends. I just love sitting out on the patio on a warm summer night, glass of wine in hand, candles all around. There's something about it that's just kind of magical and nostalgic :).
Food is usually the center of the event for me. The process of cooking for others is quite therapeutic even thought it always makes me a tad nervous. I am a confident cook, but as a type-A through and through, I tend to question myself on even my stand by recipes. Last night I roasted a couple of chickens, baked off some yams and made a spinach salad. Super simple, tasty and light for a warm summers night. But I also added a cucumber and watermelon salad with feta and basil to mix it up. It was amazing! The salty and sweet combination with the herbaciousness of the basil and creaminess of the feta was delish, and the cool crunchy texture made for the perfect summer salad. Since I wasn't sure of how my guests would receive the seemingly odd combo, I had the spinach salad as a back up plan...Probably a good idea if there are kids around or people you don't know very well. But rest assured those who try it will love it...see for yourself and enjoy!
1/2 large watermelon
1 large cucumber
1/2 cup feta (crumbled)
handful fresh basil
1/2 cup olive oil
juice of 1 lemon
zest of 1/2 lemon
1/2 cup green onion (optional)
fresh cracked pepper to taste
Cube the watermelon and cucumber into bite sized pieces. Crumble feta over top and add basil, onion, olive oil, lemon juice, zest and pepper. Mix gently and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes prior to serving. Serves approximately 6-8 people.
