Watermelon Feta Salad with Almonds (Panera Copycat)

Watermelon Feta Salad with Almonds — Inspired by Panera

A bright, refreshing salad inspired by Panera’s seasonal favorite! Juicy watermelon, creamy feta, toasted almonds, quinoa, and peppery arugula all come together with a light champagne vinaigrette. Perfect for summer lunches, cookouts, or anytime you crave something fresh and simple.

Ingredients

• 5–6 cups baby arugula
• 2 cups fresh watermelon, cubed
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds
• 1/2 cup cooked quinoa (cooled)
• 2–3 fresh mint leaves, torn (optional)
• 1/4 cup Champagne vinaigrette (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

1. Arrange the arugula on a large serving platter or bowl.
2. Top with cubed watermelon and sprinkle with feta crumbles.
3. Lightly scatter the cooled cooked quinoa over the salad.
4. Sprinkle toasted sliced almonds across the top.
5. (Optional) Add a few torn mint leaves for a fresh burst of flavor.
6. Drizzle lightly with champagne vinaigrette just before serving.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing mix of sweet, salty, peppery, and nutty flavors!

Notes

• Champagne Vinaigrette Tip: If you can’t find bottled champagne vinaigrette, whisk together 2 tablespoons champagne vinegar, 4 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
• Watermelon Tip: Use cold, firm watermelon for best texture.
• Almonds Tip: Toast them in a dry pan over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden to enhance their flavor. Trader Joe’s has sliced toasted almonds.
• Quinoa Tip: Cook quinoa ahead of time and let it cool fully before adding to the salad to prevent wilting the greens.
• Dairy-Free Tip: Last time I had this salad at Panera, I opted to skip the feta — and it was still delicious! Feel free to leave it out if you prefer a dairy-free version.

Serving Size

Serves 4–6 as a side salad, 2–3 as a main dish.

 
If you’re in the mood for something sweet and refreshing, you might also like my Peach and Blueberry Green Smoothie Bowl — inspired by Panera’s Peach and Blueberry Smoothie, and just as easy to make at home! Note that Panera has removed the smoothie from their menu.