Few recipes feel more like summer than Watermelon Feta Cucumber Salad.
Juicy watermelon provides sweetness while cucumber adds crunch and salty feta balances everything. Fresh mint and a simple lime dressing make the salad bright and refreshing.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 5 cups cubed watermelon
- 1 large cucumber, sliced
- ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ small red onion, very thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Small pinch of salt
Instructions
Cut the watermelon into approximately one-inch cubes.
Slice the cucumber into thin half-moons. Persian or English cucumber works particularly well because the skin is tender.
Place watermelon and cucumber in a large serving bowl.
Add thinly sliced red onion.
Scatter the feta and fresh mint over the fruit.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey and black pepper.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad immediately before serving.
Very gently toss everything together.
Taste before adding salt because feta is naturally salty.
Serve chilled.
How to Keep Watermelon Salad From Becoming Watery
Watermelon naturally releases liquid after it has been cut.
For best results, refrigerate the watermelon separately and combine everything approximately 10 to 20 minutes before serving.
Avoid salting the salad too early because salt draws additional water from the fruit.
Variations
Add avocado for creaminess.
Replace mint with fresh basil.
Add sliced strawberries for additional sweetness.
Add chopped pistachios for crunch.
For a spicy variation, sprinkle a small amount of chili powder or Tajín over the watermelon.
FAQ
Can watermelon feta salad be prepared ahead?
You can prepare the components several hours ahead, but combine them shortly before serving.
Can I replace feta cheese?
Goat cheese is a good substitute. Fresh mozzarella also works but provides a much milder flavor.
Does balsamic glaze work on watermelon?
Yes. A small drizzle of balsamic glaze works very well with watermelon and feta.
How long does it last?
It is best eaten the same day but can be refrigerated for approximately 24 hours.
