This refreshing watermelon feta salad is a perfect summer treat! Juicy watermelon meets crumbly feta cheese, making a sweet and salty combo that’s hard to resist.
You can whip it up in a snap, and it’s great for picnics or barbecues. I like to add a splash of lime juice for a zesty kick—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: The star of this salad! Fresh, juicy watermelon adds sweetness and hydration. If you can’t find watermelon, cantaloupe or honeydew can work in a pinch, but they will change the taste.
Cucumber: Crunchy cucumbers add freshness. English cucumbers are my go-to because they have fewer seeds. Alternatively, you can use mini cucumbers or even zucchini if you want a different flavor.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings saltiness and creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using goat cheese. For a dairy-free alternative, try a vegan feta or nutritional yeast mixed with a little lemon juice.
Fresh Herbs (Mint & Basil): Fresh herbs elevate the dish with their vibrant flavors. If you’re out of basil, parsley can be a good substitute. Dried herbs just won’t capture the same freshness!
Olive Oil & Lime Juice: These provide a simple dressing. Use lemon juice instead of lime for a different twist. Opt for a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
How Can I Get the Right Texture and Flavor Balance?
The key to this salad is to mix textures and flavors while ensuring freshness. Start by dicing the watermelon and cucumber into similar-sized pieces for a more appealing bite. This ensures they mix well and each bite combines the flavors evenly.
- Combine the watermelon and cucumber in a large bowl, tossing gently to avoid mushiness.
- Adding feta should be done carefully so you don’t break it down too much; crumbling it with your hands works best for even distribution.
- When making the dressing, whisk until fully combined for the best coating. Drizzle evenly over the salad instead of pouring in a single spot.
- Chill your salad for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. It really enhances the overall taste!
How to Make Fresh Watermelon Feta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups watermelon, diced
- 2 cups cucumber, diced
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and, if you choose to chill it, an additional 30 minutes in the refrigerator. Quick and easy, it makes for a perfect side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Fresh Ingredients:
Start by taking a large bowl and adding the diced watermelon and cucumber. These will be the star ingredients of your salad. Gently mix them together to get a good blend.
2. Add the Flavorful Ingredients:
Next, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the watermelon and cucumber. This adds a delicious creamy texture. Then, toss in the chopped mint and basil leaves for a burst of flavor and freshness. Give everything a gentle mix to combine it well.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This dressing will enhance the flavors of your salad beautifully!
4. Dress the Salad:
Now it’s time to drizzle the dressing over your salad. Carefully toss everything together to ensure that the salad is nicely coated but still retains its shape and texture.
5. Adjust and Serve:
Take a moment to taste your salad. If you think it needs a little more flavor, add a bit more salt and pepper as needed. You can serve the salad right away, or if you prefer it chilled, pop it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your refreshing salad!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese Instead of Feta?
Absolutely! If you’re not a big fan of feta, you can use goat cheese or even mozzarella for a creamier texture. Just crumble or tear it into pieces and mix it in as you would with feta. Each cheese will give a different flavor profile to the salad, so feel free to experiment!
How Do I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare most of the salad ingredients ahead of time! Just combine the watermelon, cucumber, mint, and basil in a bowl and store them separately from the feta and dressing. When ready to serve, add the feta and drizzle the dressing for the freshest taste!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Salad?
To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, be aware that the watermelon may release some juice and the salad may become a bit soggy. You can drain excess liquid before serving again.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! This salad is very versatile. You can add sliced red onion for a bit of zing, or even bell peppers for extra crunch. Just be sure to adjust the dressing and seasoning as needed to balance the flavors!
