Watermelon Salad With Mint Leaves

• 1 5-pound watermelon
• 1 Vidalia or other sweet onion
• 1/4  cup  red wine vinegar
• salt and pepper
• 1/2  cup  extra-virgin olive oil
• 2  tablespoon  fresh mint, chopped
• 4  ounce  feta cheese, crumbled
• 6 whole mint sprigs

Cut the flesh from the melon and cut into bite size pieces, removing and discarding the seeds, and set aside. Peel and slice the onion into rings.

In a small bowl, combine the vinegar, salt, pepper, and whisk until salt is dissolved. Slowly whisk in the olive oil, a few drops at a time. Add in the chopped mint, taste, and adjust seasonings.

In a large bowl, combine the melon, onion, and feta. Pour the dressing over the melon mixture and toss gently until everything is coated and evenly mixed. Garnish with mint sprigs.

To serve, divide salad among individual plates and garnish with mint leaves.

Yield: 6 servings
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Ease of preparation: easy

Recipe courtesy Paula Deen