This refreshing watermelon strawberry salad is perfect for sunny days! With juicy watermelon and sweet strawberries, it’s like a summer party in a bowl. Add some mint for a pop of flavor!
I love serving this salad at picnics; it’s super light and so colorful. Plus, it’s a hit with everyone! You might find yourself snacking on it all day! 🍉🍓
Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Fresh, ripe watermelon is key for this salad! If watermelon isn’t in season, use cantaloupe or honeydew for a sweet alternative.
Strawberries: Opt for juicy, ripe strawberries. You can replace them with blueberries or raspberries if you prefer. Just remember to adjust the quantity for sweetness.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint adds a refreshing taste. If you don’t have fresh, try a small amount of dried mint or even a different herb like basil for a unique twist.
Feta Cheese: This is optional, but it adds a nice salty contrast to the sweetness of the fruits. If you wish to skip it, avocado would provide a creamy texture instead.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the salad. Lemon can be a good substitute, but it will provide a slightly different flavor.
Honey: If you’re doing without honey, agave syrup or maple syrup works as an alternative. For a sugar-free option, you can skip it entirely since the fruit is naturally sweet.
How Do I Make Sure My Fruits Stay Fresh and Tasty?
To keep your watermelon and strawberries fresh, aim to make this salad shortly before serving. If you need to prepare in advance, store the cut fruits separately in the fridge. Combining them right before serving ensures the best texture and flavor.
- When cutting watermelon, use a sharp knife to avoid crushing the flesh and preserve its juiciness.
- Slice strawberries just before mixing to prevent them from browning.
- Lightly tossing the ingredients helps maintain the integrity of the fruits rather than mashing them together.
Best Watermelon Strawberry Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups watermelon, diced
- 3 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
For the Dressing:
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You can serve it right away, or refrigerate it for up to 30 minutes to make it even cooler and more refreshing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Fruits:
Start by taking a large bowl and adding the diced watermelon and sliced strawberries. Gently stir them together to mix the colors and flavors of these fruits.
2. Add Mint and Feta:
Next, chop up the fresh mint leaves and sprinkle them over the fruit mixture. If you’re using feta cheese, crumble it over the top for a salty, savory touch. This will add a lovely flavor contrast to the sweetness of the fruit!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, squeeze the juice of one lime. If you want to add a little sweetness, mix in the honey now. Whisk them together until they’re well blended!
4. Assemble the Salad:
Drizzle the lime dressing over your fruit salad. Gently toss everything together so that the salad is evenly coated in the dressing. This will help all the flavors come together beautifully.
5. Season and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle a pinch of salt and some black pepper over the salad to enhance all those amazing flavors. Serve it immediately, or if you prefer it chilled, pop it in the fridge for up to 30 minutes. Enjoy this delightful and refreshing watermelon strawberry salad!
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! This salad is versatile, so feel free to use other berries like blueberries or raspberries. You can also add diced kiwi or pineapple for a tropical twist. Just keep the quantities similar to maintain a balanced flavor.
How to Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, note that the watermelon and strawberries may release some juice, making the salad a bit watery. You can drain excess liquid before serving if needed.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the watermelon and strawberries in advance, but for best flavor and texture, add the mint, feta, and dressing just before serving. This will help keep everything fresh and crunchy!
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you don’t have feta on hand or prefer a dairy-free option, try using goat cheese for a similar tangy flavor. For a vegan alternative, consider using crumbled tofu or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
