Market Umbrella is an independent nonprofit 501(c)(3), based in New Orleans, whose mission is to cultivate the power of farmers markets to drive economic and community health in the region. Market Umbrella has operated the Crescent City Farmers Markets (CCFM) since 1995.
Recipe
Watermelon and Tomato Salad with Feta Cheese
As Creole Tomato season comes to an end and watermelons roll in on the back of our farmers’ trucks, we wanted to share a recipe that highlighted this special time in our season, where both fruits are ripe and abundant! With the summer heat rolling in, you won’t be finding much lettuce for your salads at the market. Using watermelons and tomatoes can be a fresh and tasty way to make sure you are getting your salad fix during this time of year while also supporting our local farmers and producers in the summer months. Add cucumbers for an extra crunch, spice up your salad with some local, fresh cayenne peppers from Poché Family Farm, and try goat feta cheese from Huckleberry Fred Creamery or fresh cheese from T&R Diary.
Ingredients
- 2 cups seedless watermelon, cut into large dice
- 3 large heirloom tomatoes, cut into large dice (preferably a mix of colors)
- 1/3 cup mint leaves, rolled tightly, then cut crosswise into thin strips (chiffonade)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup good-quality balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted (see NOTE)
Directions
Combine the watermelon and tomatoes in a mixing bowl. Gently stir in the mint, feta and oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
To serve, transfer the tomato mixture to a serving plate or bowl. Drizzle the vinegar over the salad and top with the toasted pine nuts.
Serve immediately.
NOTE: Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for a few minutes until they are lightly browned, shaking them to make sure they don't burn.
About Us
The Crescent City Farmers Market operates weekly year-round throughout New Orleans. The CCFM hosts 70+ local small farmers, fishers, and food producers, and more than 150,000 shoppers annually.