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Tuna & Quinoa Salad served on Cantaloupe with Arugula

8/21/2025

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Looking for a light, refreshing dish that’s perfect for warm weather? This Tuna & Quinoa Salad on Cantaloupe combines the sweet juiciness of ripe melon with the savory creaminess of tuna salad for a delicious balance of flavors. Nestled on a bed of peppery arugula, it’s not only beautiful to serve but also packed with protein and nutrients. Whether you’re making a quick summer lunch, an elegant brunch plate, or a healthy no-cook dinner, this recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and refreshing taste.
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**This post may contain affiliate links. I receive a small amount of compensation when you purchase from my links which help to keep this blog running.**
Tuna & Quinoa Salad on Cantaloupe
Yields 4 servings

Ingredients:
1 large cantaloupe – cut into wedges, seeds removed
2 cups arugula (or mixed greens), for serving
1 cup cooked quinoa, cooled
1 (5–6 oz) can tuna (packed in water), drained and flaked
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
½ cup celery, diced
2–3 Tbsp Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise, or a mix)
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 Tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for tang)
1 Tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
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​Instructions:

In a mixing bowl, combine tuna, cooked quinoa, red onion, celery, yogurt (or mayo), olive oil, lemon juice, mustard (if using), and fresh herbs.

Mix gently until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Place a bed of arugula on each serving plate. Top with a wedge of cantaloupe.

Spoon the tuna-quinoa salad generously over the cantaloupe slice.

Garnish with extra parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper.

Enjoy immediately as a light lunch, refreshing summer dinner, or brunch centerpiece.
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Tips & Variations:
  • Add diced cherry tomatoes, cucumber or apple for extra crunch and sweetness.
  • For a Mediterranean twist, mix in kalamata olives and crumbled feta.
  • Swap tuna with shredded chicken or chickpeas for variety.
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Watermelon Caprese Salad

8/11/2025

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Sweet, juicy watermelon takes center stage in this refreshing twist on the classic Caprese salad. Paired with creamy fresh mozzarella, fragrant basil leaves, and a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze, this Watermelon Caprese Salad is a vibrant celebration of summer flavors. It’s light, colorful, and elegant enough for entertaining, yet simple enough to whip up in minutes—perfect for warm-weather lunches, picnics, or a stunning appetizer.
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**This post may contain affiliate links. I receive a small amount of compensation when you purchase from my links which help to keep this blog running.**
Watermelon Caprese Salad
Yields 4 servings

Ingredients:
  • 4 thick slices seedless watermelon (about ½–¾ inch thick, cut into rounds or squares)
  • 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese (similar size to the watermelon slices)
  • 8–12 fresh basil leaves (whole or large leaves for layering)
  • 2–3 tablespoons balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade*)
  • Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
  • Fresh basil, finely chopped (for garnish)
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Instructions
  1. Prepare the watermelon:
    Cut the watermelon into slices about ½–¾ inch thick. Use a round cutter or knife to trim into neat circles (optional, for presentation). Pat slices dry with a paper towel to reduce excess moisture.
  2. Layer the salad:
    Place one slice of watermelon on each plate. Top with 2–3 basil leaves, followed by a slice of fresh mozzarella.
  3. Add garnish:
    Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the top for extra color and flavor.
  4. Drizzle:
    Spoon or drizzle balsamic glaze over the mozzarella and around the plate.
  5. Optional seasoning:
    Finish with a light grind of black pepper if desired.
  6. Serve immediately:
    This salad is best enjoyed fresh and chilled.
Tip: If you’d like to make your own balsamic glaze, simmer ½ cup balsamic vinegar with 1–2 teaspoons honey over low heat until reduced by half and syrupy, about 10–12 minutes. Let cool before drizzling.
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Mediterranean Cucumber & Tomato Salad with Creamy Feta Herb Dressing

7/18/2025

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​This vibrant Mediterranean Cucumber & Tomato Salad is bursting with fresh veggies, tangy olives, and creamy feta, all tossed in a flavorful herb dressing. It’s a quick and easy side dish perfect for summer lunches, picnics, or Mediterranean-inspired dinners. With colorful peppers, crisp cucumbers, and a creamy vinaigrette, every bite delivers a fresh, zesty crunch.
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**This post may contain affiliate links. I receive a small amount of compensation when you purchase from my links which help to keep this blog running.**
Mediterranean Cucumber & Tomato Salad with Creamy Feta Herb Dressing
Yields approximately 4 servings as a side dish or 2 servings if enjoyed as a light main course

​Salad Ingredients:
1 cup mini cucumbers, thickly sliced
1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (red, yellow, and orange for color)
½ red bell pepper, sliced
½ yellow bell pepper, sliced
¼ red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup green olives, sliced
¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tbsp fresh basil, chiffonade (thinly sliced)

For the Creamy Feta Herb Dressing:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese
1 small garlic clove, minced
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp Dijon mustard (optional for creaminess)
Salt & pepper to taste
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Directions:
​Prep the veggies: Wash and chop all vegetables as described above. Place in a large mixing bowl.

Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, feta, garlic, oregano, Dijon (if using), salt, and pepper until creamy and slightly thick.

Toss and serve: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and gently toss to coat. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to absorb flavors. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

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Prosciutto, Cantaloupe & Burrata Salad with Pistachio Basil Vinaigrette

7/9/2025

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This refreshing Prosciutto, Cantaloupe & Burrata Salad is a vibrant blend of sweet, salty, and creamy flavors—perfect for warm days or elegant entertaining. Juicy cantaloupe ribbons pair beautifully with delicate prosciutto and creamy burrata, while red onion, pistachios, and fresh basil add texture and depth. Finished with a homemade pistachio basil vinaigrette, this salad is as visually stunning as it is delicious.

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**This post may contain affiliate links. I receive a small amount of compensation when you purchase from my links which help to keep this blog running.**
Prosciutto, Cantaloupe & Burrata Salad with Pistachio Basil Vinaigrette
Yields 2-3 servings

Salad Ingredients:
1/2 medium cantaloupe, thinly sliced or ribboned
4–6 slices of prosciutto
1 ball of burrata cheese (or 3–4 small dollops)
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
2–3 Tbsp shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
A handful of sunflower sprouts or microgreens
4–5 fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (chiffonade)

Ingredients for Pistachio Basil Vinaigrette:
2 Tbsp shelled pistachios
1 small garlic clove
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp honey (or maple syrup)
2 Tbsp white balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice)
1/4 cup olive oil
1–2 Tbsp fresh basil leaves
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Blend all ingredients until smooth and creamy. Adjust salt, vinegar, or honey to balance the flavor.

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Assembly:
On a large plate or platter, gently layer cantaloupe ribbons with prosciutto slices.

Add dollops or torn pieces of burrata throughout.

Scatter red onion slices, pistachios, and sunflower sprouts on top.

Drizzle with pistachio basil vinaigrette.

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil and a few extra pistachios if desired.
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Heirloom Tomato, Avocado & Burrata Salad with Pine Nut Basil Vinaigrette

7/2/2025

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​Inspired by the abundance of summer produce and the creamy indulgence of burrata, this vibrant salad is a celebration of color, texture, and flavor. Juicy heirloom tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, buttery avocado, and fragrant basil are all brought together with a tangy homemade basil vinaigrette. Topped with pillowy dollops of burrata and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for crunch, it’s a dish that feels both elevated and effortless. Perfect for warm days or when you’re craving something light yet satisfying, this salad is as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat.
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**This post may contain affiliate links. I receive a small amount of compensation when you purchase from my links which help to keep this blog running.**
Heirloom Tomato, Avocado & Burrata Salad with Pine Nut Basil Vinaigrette
Yields 2-3 Servings

Salad Ingredients:
1 cup mixed heirloom cherry tomatoes, halved (yellow, red, and orange)
1 Persian cucumber, thinly sliced
1 ripe avocado, diced
1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 ball of burrata cheese, torn into chunks
1–2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
4–6 basil leaves, chiffonade (thinly sliced)
Sea salt & freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Ingredients for Basil Vinaigrette Dressing:
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Salt & pepper to taste
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Directions:
  1. Make the Dressing:
    Combine olive oil, vinegar, mustard, honey, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper in a small jar or blender. Shake or blend until creamy and emulsified.
  2. Assemble the Salad:
    In a mixing bowl, gently toss the tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, onion, and basil with a few spoonfuls of the dressing.
  3. Plate and Finish:
    Divide the salad among plates. Top with torn burrata and sprinkle with pine nuts. Add a few more cracks of black pepper and a drizzle of dressing, if desired.
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    Linda Roisum

    Traveller, chief taste-tester and food finder and retired expat living in Lisbon, Portugal.

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