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Fresh Vegan Watermelon Feta Salad with Tofu Alternative

vegan watermelon feta salad - featured image

A refreshing and satisfying vegan salad combining marinated tofu that mimics feta with juicy watermelon, fresh herbs, and a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for summer gatherings or a quick snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and drained
  • 4 cups watermelon, cubed
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chiffonade
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional)
  • Balsamic glaze, for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Press the tofu: Remove tofu from package and drain liquid. Wrap in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place a heavy object on top for 20 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  2. Prepare the tofu marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, sea salt, maple syrup (if using), and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  3. Cube and marinate the tofu: Cut pressed tofu into 1/2 inch cubes. Toss gently in the marinade to coat evenly. Let sit for at least 15 minutes or up to 1 hour in the fridge.
  4. Prepare watermelon and herbs: Cut watermelon into bite-sized cubes, chop mint and basil finely, and slice red onion thinly if using.
  5. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine watermelon, marinated tofu, mint, basil, and red onion. Drizzle remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over salad and toss gently. Season with black pepper and additional salt if desired.
  6. Finish with balsamic glaze: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad just before serving.
  7. Serve immediately: Best enjoyed fresh. Refrigerate leftovers up to 24 hours; let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving and add fresh balsamic glaze if desired.

Notes

Press tofu well to achieve crumbly feta-like texture. Marinate tofu at least 15 minutes for best flavor, up to 1 hour or overnight for deeper taste. Use ripe, sweet watermelon and chiffonade herbs finely. Drizzle balsamic glaze just before serving. Leftovers keep up to 24 hours refrigerated; drain excess juice before serving again.

Nutrition

Keywords: vegan watermelon salad, tofu feta salad, summer salad, dairy-free salad, vegan feta alternative, fresh watermelon salad, balsamic glaze salad