Red, White & Blue Mint Julep Salad – A Refreshing Twist on Summer Fruit Salad

Looking for a festive and refreshing side dish to brighten up your summer table? This Red, White & Blue Mint Julep Salad combines juicy berries, creamy feta, and a minty homemade vinaigrette for the ultimate patriotic picnic treat. It’s sweet, tangy, and ready in minutes—perfect for Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, or any sunny day!

Red, White & Blue Mint Julep Salad – A Refreshing Twist on Summer Fruit Salad

Fruit salads are a must-have at every summer gathering—but this isn’t your average mix of berries. Our Red, White & Blue Mint Julep Salad adds a zesty, herbal twist with a refreshing Mint Julep vinaigrette that’ll surprise and delight every guest at your table.

Vertical view of a Red, White & Blue Mint Julep Salad showcasing watermelon stars, blueberries, feta, and mint, arranged on a white plate atop a wooden surface. The upper part includes overlay text: “Red, White & Blue Mint Julep Salad – A Refreshing Twist on Summer Fruit Salad.”

Whether you’re serving this up for a Fourth of July BBQ, a lakeside picnic, or simply as a cool afternoon snack, this colorful salad is both festive and flavorful. The best part? The homemade dressing doubles as a tangy topping for your next-day garden salad—hello, easy meal prep win!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Vibrant & Patriotic: With watermelon or strawberries, juicy blueberries, and creamy white feta, it’s a picture-perfect red, white, and blue dish.

  • Bright Mint Julep Vibes: Made with strong brewed Mint Julep Tea, this vinaigrette adds an herbal citrusy kick.

  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Brew the tea and make the vinaigrette ahead for quick prep when it's time to serve.

Tips for Success:

 

  • Want it dairy-free? Skip the feta or sub with a plant-based cheese crumble.

  • No Mint Julep Tea? Substitute with a strong brewed spearmint or peppermint tea, steeped with a slice of lime.

  • Make it sparkle: add a handful of pomegranate seeds or a splash of citrus zest for added sparkle and crunch.

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Red, White & Blue Mint Julep Salad

This bright and patriotic fruit salad brings sweet berries, salty feta, and a fresh Mint Julep dressing together for a festive and flavorful summer side dish!

Author
Sally Valenti
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
5 minutes
Servings
4-6
Category

Salad, Summer Sides

Cuisine

American

Ingredients

  • ½ cup strong brewed Mint Julep Tea, cooled
  • 3 Tbsp maple syrup
  • 3 Tbsp white balsamic vinegar
  • ¼ cup packed fresh mint leaves
  • 2 tsp lime juice
  • ¼ tsp coarse sea salt
  • ¼ tsp Pennsylvania Pepper (or cracked black pepper)
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 4 oz crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 cups cubed watermelon or strawberries
  • 2 cups fresh blueberries
  • Additional mint leaves, for garnish

Directions

  1. Brew the Tea:
  2. Heat 2 oz of water to 180°F. Add 1 Tbsp Mint Julep Tea and steep for 3–4 minutes. Strain and cool completely.
  3. Make the Dressing:
  4. In a small food processor or blender, combine the brewed tea, maple syrup, vinegar, mint, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend well.
  5. Add olive oil and blend again until emulsified. Set aside.
  6. Assemble the Salad:
  7. In a large bowl, gently combine the crumbled feta, watermelon or strawberries, and blueberries.
  8. Dress & Serve:
  9. Drizzle with Mint Julep vinaigrette and toss to coat. Garnish with fresh mint leaves. Serve immediately.
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