Watermelon Feta Salad

This dish always reminds me of cozy family gatherings and laughter. There’s something so special about the combination of sweet, juicy watermelon with creamy feta and fresh herbs that brings everyone together. Perfect for hot summer days, this refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad is not just easy to throw together, but it also adds a burst of flavor to any meal. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

What is Watermelon Feta Salad?

This Watermelon Feta Salad is the perfect dish for hot summer days! It combines sweet, juicy watermelon with the salty creaminess of feta cheese, cool cucumber, and fresh mint, creating a delightful balance of flavors. What makes this salad stand out is the added crunch from red onion and the creamy avocado, plus a zesty lime dressing that ties everything together. It’s quick to prepare, taking just minutes to assemble, and it’s incredibly refreshing—ideal for summer cookouts or picnics. If you’ve never tried watermelon in a savory dish, this watermelon feta salad is a must-try! It’s a fun twist on traditional salads and can easily be modified based on your preferences.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Large plate or platter
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups (for ingredients)
• Citrus juicer (for lime juice)
• Serving utensils

Ingredients

• 5 cups cubed watermelon
• Heaping 1 cup diced English cucumber
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
• ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese (I love using French feta for its creaminess)
• 1 avocado, cubed
• ⅓ cup torn fresh mint or basil leaves
• ½ jalapeño or serrano pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
• Sea salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional) Feel free to substitute goat cheese for feta or use cilantro instead of mint or basil if you prefer!

How to Make Watermelon Feta Salad?

• Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the juice of 1 lime, 1 minced garlic clove, and ½ teaspoon of salt to make the dressing. Step 2: On a large plate or platter, arrange 5 cups of cubed watermelon, 1 heaping cup of diced English cucumber, and ¼ cup of thinly sliced red onion. Step 3: Drizzle half of the dressing over the arranged watermelon, cucumber, and onion. Step 4: Top the salad with ⅓ cup of crumbled feta cheese, 1 cubed avocado, ⅓ cup of torn fresh mint or basil leaves, and ½ thinly sliced jalapeño or serrano pepper, if using. Step 5: Drizzle the remaining dressing over the salad. Step 6: Season the salad with sea salt to taste. Step 7: Serve immediately. Step 8: Enjoy your refreshing watermelon feta salad!

Some Tips!

• For the freshest taste, use ripe, in-season watermelon and cucumbers. They really make a difference! – If you’re prepping ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the salad from getting soggy. – Feel free to experiment with herbs! Mint and basil are great, but cilantro can add a fun twist too.

How to Store Leftovers?

So you can savor these flavors again, I recommend storing any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The watermelon feta salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it should stay tasty for a day or two. Just keep in mind that it may get a bit watery, so give it a little stir before serving!

What to Eat with Watermelon Feta Salad?

If you’re planning to whip up my refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad, you’ll want to think about what pairs perfectly with it! This vibrant salad is a fantastic complement to whatever you’re grilling—think portobello mushroom burgers or black bean patties. It also shines alongside picnic favorites like caprese sandwiches or hearty wraps, making your summer meals light and delightful!

Conclusion

Isn’t it wonderful how cooking can bring so much joy? This refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad, with cucumber and mint, is the perfect example of that! Easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and ideal for those warm summer days, it’s a dish you’ll want to whip up again and again all season long.

FAQ

Can I make this watermelon feta salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time but keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

What variations can I try with this salad?

You can experiment with different herbs like basil or cilantro, or add avocado for extra creaminess.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it can be made in advance, but it’s best enjoyed fresh to maintain the texture of the ingredients.

Can I use another cheese instead of feta?

Absolutely! Goat cheese is a great alternative if you prefer a different flavor.

What are some good pairings for watermelon feta salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a side to sandwiches.