Compressed Watermelon with Feta Mousse & Hibiscus Vinaigrette
A refreshing, savory-sweet summer starter that balances vibrant flavor with elegant presentation.
Ingredients
Watermelon & Garnishes
- 600 g seedless watermelon, cut into 2 cm cubes
- 60 g kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 30 g microgreens (e.g., arugula, basil, or cress)
- Zest of 1 lime
Feta Mousse
- 120 g feta cheese, crumbled
- 60 g full-fat Greek yogurt
- 30 ml heavy cream
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Hibiscus Vinaigrette
- 1 tbsp dried hibiscus flowers (or 1 hibiscus tea bag)
- 60 ml boiling water
- 30 ml extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp white balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp honey
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Compress the Watermelon (Optional):
Place watermelon cubes in a vacuum bag and seal using a chamber vacuum sealer. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to intensify color and flavor. If you don’t have a sealer, use fresh cubes. - Prepare the Vinaigrette:
Steep hibiscus flowers or tea bag in boiling water for 10 minutes. Strain and cool. In a bowl, whisk 2 tbsp of the hibiscus tea with olive oil, vinegar, honey, and sea salt until emulsified. - Make the Feta Mousse:
Blend feta, yogurt, cream, lemon juice, and black pepper in a food processor until smooth and airy. Transfer to a piping bag for refined plating, or spoon directly onto plates. - Assemble the Dish:
Arrange watermelon cubes on plates. Add olive halves and dollops or swirls of feta mousse. Drizzle with hibiscus vinaigrette, sprinkle with lime zest, and top with microgreens. - Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest texture and flavor.
Pro Tips
- For a vegan version, use plant-based feta and yogurt.
- Substitute microgreens with edible flowers or baby herbs for added visual flair.
- Pair with a chilled rosé or a crisp white wine for a sophisticated match.
- Compressed watermelon enhances the texture, but this step is optional.
What You’ll Need
- Vacuum sealer (optional)
- Food processor or blender
- Fine strainer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Piping bag (optional)
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Allergy Information
- Contains: Dairy (feta, yogurt, cream)
- Olives may be processed with nuts — always check product labels.
- Consult with a healthcare professional for any dietary concerns.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
(Approximate values)
- Calories: 190
- Fat: 11 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Protein: 6 g
✨ Light, bold, and balanced—this dish brings summer to the table in the most elegant way.