This refreshing watermelon salad is the perfect summer treat! Juicy watermelon, creamy feta cheese, and a sprinkle of mint come together for a light and tasty dish.
Honestly, who can resist the cool crunch of watermelon mixed with salty feta? It’s like a party in your mouth! 🥳 I love serving it at picnics—it’s always a hit.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Use seedless watermelon for ease and convenience. If you can’t find fresh watermelon, you could use canned watermelon or even cantaloupe as a sweet alternative.
Cucumber: English cucumbers are my favorite here for their mild flavor and crisp texture. If you want a twist, try using diced bell peppers or zucchini instead for a different crunch.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta gives that delightful salty kick. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using vegan feta or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
Mint: Fresh mint adds a burst of freshness! If mint isn’t available, basil can work nicely too, giving a different yet refreshing taste.
How Do I Prevent the Watermelon from Becoming Soggy?
Keeping watermelon salad fresh can be tricky. Here are some ways to keep it from getting too wet:
- Use chilled watermelon for a refreshing bite right away.
- Salt the cucumber briefly before adding it to the salad. This helps pull excess water from it.
- Serve the salad soon after preparing it, or keep components separate until serving time.
- Consider chilling all ingredients beforehand to enhance crispness and freshness.
Easy Fresh Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 4 cups seedless watermelon, cut into cubes
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced or quartered
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing watermelon salad will take about 10 minutes to prepare. Just mix together the ingredients, whip up a quick dressing, and it’s ready to enjoy! If you prefer it chilled, give it about 15-20 minutes in the fridge.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Watermelon and Cucumber:
Start by placing the watermelon cubes and cucumber pieces in a large mixing bowl. These two ingredients are the stars of your salad and create a lovely base!
2. Add the Feta:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the watermelon and cucumber mixture. Feta will provide a beautiful, salty contrast to the sweetness of the watermelon.
3. Toss in the Mint:
Next, add the freshly chopped mint leaves. The mint will give the salad a vibrant flavor and a nice aroma. It’s truly refreshing!
4. Whisk the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined. This simple dressing will add brightness to the salad.
5. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the watermelon, cucumber, and feta. Gently toss the salad to combine everything well, ensuring you don’t mash the watermelon too much.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste! If you feel it needs more seasoning, feel free to adjust with extra salt or pepper.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Top it off with a few more fresh mint leaves for a lovely presentation. Now your salad is ready! You can serve it immediately or let it chill for about 15-20 minutes for the flavors to blend together.
This salad is such a vibrant combination of juicy, sweet watermelon, crisp cucumber, salty feta, and refreshing mint—all beautifully tied together with a light lime dressing. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a cool summer side dish!
FAQ for Easy Fresh Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, goat cheese or ricotta can be great alternatives to feta. For a dairy-free option, look for vegan feta or nutritional yeast to achieve a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
What Can I Substitute for Lime Juice?
If you don’t have lime juice on hand, fresh lemon juice works just as well to add that zesty flavor. You can also use apple cider vinegar for a different twist, but adjust the amount to taste as it can be a bit more potent.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover watermelon salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, for the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to enjoy it fresh as watermelon can release water and affect the salad’s consistency.
Can I Add Other Fruits or Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or avocado for added flavor and texture. You can also add other vegetables like red onion or bell peppers to customize the salad to your liking!
