This is possibly the most refreshing summer appetizer ever that your taste buds have been recommending—watermelon slices covered with a creamy feta cheese combination you are going to love!
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A fresh basil leaf adds a final touch to give it the right amount of flavor. Simple, flavorful, and easy to make. You will be tempted to keep them hidden from your guests because they’re so tasty!
How do I cut a watermelon properly?
For anyone who has been buying pre-cut slices of watermelon at the grocery store, go and try these basic steps to cut watermelon on your own.
- Using soap and water, clean the watermelon. It should be well dried.
- Slice the ends off using a serrated knife. You may need someone to hold it for you, but cutting off the end is more straightforward than cutting the beast in half, even if you do it alone.
- Flip it up on one of the cut ends, cut into the cut edge with your knife, and slice down. Now you’ve got something to work with.
Is it better to cut watermelon cold or warm?
Cutting a cold watermelon holds its shape better than a room-temperature watermelon. Please place it in the refrigerator to chill.
How long does a cut watermelon last?
What are the ingredients to make watermelon, whipped Feta, and basil bites appetizer?
With 25 minutes prep time and 5 minutes cook time, here are the ingredients suitable for 4-6 servings:
- Cream cheese, softened – If the cheese isn’t room temperature or softened enough, put it in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it for about 15 seconds.
- Feta, crumbled – For a creamy texture and slightly briny flavor.
- Half & half – 15% MF cream might be called “light cream” at your grocery store.
- Balsamic vinegar – It is worthwhile to seek out high-quality balsamic vinegar. Check the labels to make sure it’s not just vinegar with a balsamic flavor.
- Fresh seedless watermelon – They are sweeter than regular watermelons.
- Fresh basil leaves – They are a simple plant to grow on your windowsill or in your backyard herb garden. Remove the stems.
- Pistachios – Chop for toppings.
- Garnish: (Optional)
- Small sprigs of fresh basil – To add more flavor.
What are the steps in making watermelon, whipped Feta, and basil bites appetizer?
In a large mixing basin, beat cream cheese, Feta, and half-and-half with a hand mixer or immersion blender until light and fluffy, then set aside.
Next, in a small saucepan over medium-high heat, warm the balsamic vinegar. Bring to a low boil, stirring regularly, until the liquid has been reduced by half and clings to the back of a spoon. Reduce the heat to low and keep the pot warm until it’s time to use it.
Drizzle balsamic glaze over a serving tray and place half of the watermelon squares gently on top.
Then fill a pastry bag with a portion of the beaten Feta mixture and a big tip (or use a plastic sandwich bag with one of the bottom corners removed). Using a pastry bag, pipe the whipped Feta onto each watermelon square on the dish, then top with fresh basil. As needed, refill the pastry or plastic bag.
Gently press down another slice of watermelon on top of the basil to secure it. Finally, add some of the remaining whipped Feta and chopped pistachios to each appetizer.
Lastly, serve immediately with a thin spray of the remaining balsamic glaze and small sprigs of fresh basil, if desired. Enjoy!
Now that you know everything needed, it is time to print the recipe with the exact ingredients.
Watermelon, Whipped Feta, & Basil Bites
Watermelon slices are covered with a creamy feta cheese combination that has been beaten. Add basil, and you have a refreshing appetizer.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 8 oz. Feta, crumbled
- 3 T. half & half
- 1/3 c. balsamic vinegar
- Fresh seedless watermelon, cut 24 1” squares approximately 1/3” thick
- 12 fresh basil leaves, stems removed
- 1/3 c. pistachios, chopped
- Garnish: (optional)
- Small sprigs of fresh basil
Instructions
- Place cream cheese, Feta, and half & half in a large mixing bowl and beat with a hand mixer or immersion blender until mixture is light and fluffy. Set aside.
- Heat balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally, and cook until the liquid is reduced by one-half and starts to cling to the back of a spoon. Reduce heat to low and keep warm until ready to use.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze onto a serving platter and carefully arrange half of the watermelon squares on top.
- Transfer some of the whipped Feta mixtures to a pastry bag fitted with a large tip (or use a plastic sandwich bag with one of the bottom corners removed). Pipe the whipped Feta onto each watermelon square on the platter and top each with some fresh basil. Refill the pastry or plastic bag as necessary.
- Place another slice of watermelon on top of the basil and gently press down to secure. Top each appetizer with some of the remaining whipped Feta and chopped pistachios.
- Serve immediately garnished with small sprigs of fresh basil and a light drizzle of the remaining balsamic glaze, if desired. Enjoy!
