This refreshing watermelon salad combines sweet watermelon, crunchy cucumber, and creamy feta cheese for a tasty treat. It’s perfect for hot days or as a light side!
I love how easy this salad is to throw together. Just chop, mix, and enjoy! Plus, it’s a great way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: This is the star of the salad! Choose a seedless variety for convenience. If watermelon isn’t available, try cantaloupe or honeydew for a similar sweetness.
Cucumber: A refreshing crunch comes from cucumbers. You can use English cucumbers for less bitterness or even substitute zucchini for a twist.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds creaminess and saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan feta or marinated tofu. Crumbled goat cheese also works well for a different flavor.
Fresh Mint: Mint adds brightness. If you don’t have it, try basil for a different but delicious taste, or simply skip it to keep it simple.
Olive Oil and Lime Juice: These create a light dressing. You can use avocado oil instead of olive oil and apple cider vinegar instead of lime juice for a different zing.
How Do I Get the Perfect Watermelon and Cucumber Cuts?
Cutting watermelon and cucumber properly can really elevate your salad. Here’s how:
- For watermelon, start by slicing it in half, then cut long wedges before cutting into cubes. This keeps the pieces uniform.
- For the cucumber, peel if desired for a softer texture, then slice lengthwise. Cut into half-moons for easy eating!
Remember to keep your pieces bite-sized for convenient serving!
Easy Watermelon Salad With Feta and Cucumber
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 4 cups seedless watermelon, cut into cubes
- 1 medium cucumber, peeled and sliced into half-moons
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped or whole small leaves for garnish
Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons 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 to prepare. It’s a quick mix-and-serve dish, perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings. If you want to chill it for added flavor, allow an additional 15-20 minutes in the refrigerator.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Watermelon:
Start by cutting your seedless watermelon into bite-sized cubes. Place these delightful, juicy cubes into a large mixing bowl. This will be the base of your salad.
2. Slice the Cucumber:
Next, take your cucumber and peel it, if you prefer a softer texture. Then, slice it lengthwise down the middle and cut it into half-moon shapes. Add the cucumber pieces to the bowl with the watermelon.
3. Add the Feta Cheese:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the watermelon and cucumber mixture. The creaminess of the feta is going to bring everything together!
4. Toss in the Mint:
Roughly chop a handful of fresh mint leaves and toss most of them into the bowl. Save a few leaves for garnishing later. The mint will add a refreshing kick to the salad.
5. Whisk the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lime juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk them together until well-combined.
6. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over your watermelon-cucumber-feta mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure the flavors mix, being careful not to crush the watermelon cubes.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Once everything is combined, transfer the salad to a serving bowl or platter. Garnish with the reserved mint leaves to add a beautiful touch.
8. Enjoy!
Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness. Alternatively, you can chill the salad in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to enhance the flavor before serving. Enjoy this delightful summer salad!
It’s the perfect balance of sweet, salty, fresh, and creamy—ideal for summer picnics, BBQs, or a light lunch! 🌞🥗
FAQ for Easy Watermelon Salad With Feta and Cucumber
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance! Just keep it in the refrigerator, but add the feta cheese and dressing right before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you don’t have feta, you can use goat cheese or cottage cheese for a similar texture. For a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu or vegan feta to maintain that creamy element.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the watermelon may release juice as it sits, so give it a gentle toss before serving again!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Absolutely! This salad is versatile. You can mix in ingredients like diced bell peppers, red onion, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra flavor. Just be mindful of balancing the sweetness of the watermelon with the other flavors.
