Jul 09 2026
RestaurantsBlu RistoranteCompressed Watermelon Recipe

Compressed Watermelon Recipe

Inspired by Blu Ristorante
Time2h
Serves4

Feta, Balsamic Pearls, Pistachio Brittle, Mint, Fig Raspberry Vinaigrette

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Ingredients

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Watermelon

Feta and Balsamic Pearls

Pistachio Brittle

Mint and Vinaigrette

Method

Prepare Watermelon

  1. 1

    Compress the Watermelon

    Cut the watermelon into thick slices. Place the slices in a vacuum-seal bag and seal. Compress in a vacuum chamber for about 30 minutes. If you don't have a vacuum chamber, place the slices in a heavy container and refrigerate for several hours to achieve a similar effect.

Make Feta Balsamic Pearls

  1. 2

    Prepare Balsamic Pearls

    In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and agar-agar powder. Bring to a boil, stirring continuously. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Using a dropper, drop the mixture into a bowl of cold oil to form pearls. Let them set for a few minutes, then remove and rinse with cold water.

  2. 3

    Crumble Feta

    Crumble the feta cheese into small pieces and set aside.

Prepare Pistachio Brittle

  1. 4

    Make Brittle

    In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Add the pistachios and cook until the mixture turns golden brown. Pour onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and let cool completely before breaking into pieces.

Make Vinaigrette

  1. 5

    Combine Ingredients

    In a bowl, whisk together fig preserves, raspberry vinegar, and olive oil. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble Dish

  1. 6

    Serve

    On a plate, arrange the compressed watermelon slices. Sprinkle crumbled feta on top, add balsamic pearls, and scatter pistachio brittle. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and drizzle with fig raspberry vinaigrette before serving.

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