This watermelon salad is super refreshing and perfect for hot days! It’s made with juicy watermelon, crunchy cucumber, and creamy feta cheese, making every bite a tasty treat.
I love serving it at summer picnics. It’s so easy to toss together, and the bright colors make it a fun addition to any table. Plus, who doesn’t love a juicy watermelon? 🍉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Fresh watermelon is the star of this salad! Look for ones that are heavy for their size and have a uniform shape. If you’re in a pinch, you can use honeydew or cantaloupe instead.
Cucumber: I use English cucumbers for their thin skin and mild flavor, but regular cucumbers work too. You can even swap for zucchini if you’re feeling adventurous!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a tangy creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, try using crumbled tofu seasoned with a bit of salt, or a vegan feta if you can find it. Goat cheese is another delicious choice.
Fresh Mint: Mint pairs beautifully with the sweet watermelon. If you’re not a fan, fresh basil or even cilantro can work as tasty alternatives!
How Do I Make the Salad’s Flavors Shine Through?
The key to enhancing the flavors in this salad is letting it chill for a bit before serving. This allows the juices to meld together for a refreshing bite. Here’s how to make sure your salad is at its best:
- After mixing the salad ingredients, let it sit in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes. This cools everything down and makes the flavors pop.
- Be mindful not to over-season with salt, as feta is already salty. A gentle hand with the seasoning lets the other flavors shine.
- Consider garnishing with whole mint leaves just before serving for a burst of freshness.
Refreshing Watermelon Salad with Feta and Cucumber
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups watermelon, cut into cubes
- 1 large cucumber, sliced into half-moons (about 2 cups)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped or whole for garnish
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (or lemon juice)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes of prep time and an additional 15-20 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In no time, you will have a delicious and cool salad ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Watermelon and Cucumber:
In a large bowl, start by adding your cubed watermelon and sliced cucumber. These two ingredients make a juicy and refreshing base for your salad!
2. Dress The Salad:
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and fresh lime juice all over the watermelon and cucumber. This adds great flavor and helps to bind all the ingredients together. Gently toss the ingredients with a big spoon to coat everything evenly.
3. Add Feta Cheese:
Next, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top. It brings a nice creamy texture and salty flavor that complements the sweet watermelon perfectly.
4. Garnish with Mint:
Add the fresh mint leaves. You can chop them or keep them whole for garnish. Gently mix a few in with the salad to enhance the flavor.
5. Seasoning:
Lightly season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remember, feta is quite salty itself, so go easy on the salt!
6. Chill and Serve:
Place the salad in the refrigerator to chill for about 15-20 minutes. This is when the flavors combine and become even more refreshing!
7. Enjoy!
Serve the salad cold and enjoy the bright, crisp, and juicy flavors as the perfect summer side dish. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Types of Melon?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a different flavor, honeydew or cantaloupe can be great substitutes for watermelon. Just make sure to adjust the quantities based on your taste preferences.
How Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the watermelon and cucumber a few hours ahead of time. However, it’s best to add the feta, mint, and dressing right before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and prevent them from getting soggy.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the salad might get a little watery as the watermelon releases juice, but it will still taste delicious!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! You can easily make this salad vegan by omitting the feta cheese or substituting it with a vegan feta or crumbled tofu seasoned with a little salt and lemon juice for that tangy flavor.
