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This watermelon salad brings together juicy watermelon cubes crispy cucumber fresh mint and creamy feta with a splash of simple lime dressing. It is my favorite for hot days because it tastes so refreshing and always disappears instantly at summer gatherings.
I first made this for a neighbors barbecue and everyone asked for the recipe by the end of the night. The combination surprised me by how well the savory feta and sweet watermelon work together.
Ingredients
- Watermelon cubes or balls: This is the star of the salad choose very ripe seedless watermelon if possible for the best sweetness and texture
- Cucumber: Use either an English or Persian cucumber for tender skin and tiny seeds or peel and deseed a standard cucumber for crisp bites
- Fresh mint: Sliced thin or use small leaves Mint adds a cooling pop that really lifts every bite
- Feta cheese: Crumbled Block-style feta has a creamier texture and more flavor than pre-crumbled look for Greek feta if you can
- Olive oil: Use the best quality you can find A good olive oil gives body and helps tie all the flavors together
- Lime juice: Freshly squeezed gives a zingy punch that brightens the whole salad
- Salt and pepper: Brings out all the flavors in the fruit and cheese Use flaky sea salt if you have it
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Main Ingredients:
- Cut the watermelon into bite-size cubes or scoop into balls for a fun look Slice the cucumber thinly and remove the seeds if they are large Tear or thinly slice fresh mint leaves so they distribute evenly
- Mix the Dressing:
- In a small bowl whisk together the olive oil lime juice salt and pepper until combined This quick dressing will coat every piece with flavor
- Assemble the Salad:
- Add the watermelon cucumber and mint to a large mixing bowl Drizzle the dressing over the top and gently toss with clean hands or a wide spoon Take care not to crush the watermelon too much
- Add the Cheese:
- Right before serving sprinkle crumbled feta over the salad This keeps the feta from dissolving and preserves its creamy texture Mix lightly if needed to distribute the cheese
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My favorite part of this dish is the freshness from the mint Every time I pick fresh mint from my own backyard garden and use it in this salad the flavor is even more vibrant and the smell brings back memories of childhood summers
Storage Tips
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day but it tastes best within a few hours after assembling because the fruit will start to release its juices and the feta can get a little soft If you want to make it ahead prep and store all the components separately then combine and dress just before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
No fresh mint Try fresh basil leaves sliced thin for a different herb twist If you do not have feta crumbled goat cheese or queso fresco works too For extra crunch add a handful of toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds
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Serving Suggestions
This salad is wonderful as a light lunch or a side for grilled chicken seafood or kebabs At picnics I like to serve it in small cups for easy eating You can even pile it onto toasted sourdough or pair with crispy pita chips for an appetizer
Cultural Context
Watermelon salads with feta and herbs have roots in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine where sweet and salty flavors are paired often Watermelon and feta together is a classic Greek combination that takes full advantage of the abundant summer produce and salty cheeses of the region
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cucumber works best?
English or Persian cucumbers are ideal for their thin skins and fewer seeds, but any cucumber can be used if peeled and seeded first.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
It's best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients in advance and toss them together with dressing just before serving to maintain texture.
- → Is it necessary to use fresh mint?
Fresh mint delivers the brightest flavor and aroma. Dried mint is not recommended for this preparation.
- → How should feta be added for best flavor?
Crumbled feta from a block offers superior taste and texture compared to pre-crumbled varieties. Add it just before serving.
- → What dressing complements the ingredients?
A simple blend of olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them.
- → Can I add other ingredients?
Red onion, arugula, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts can add more depth and crunch if desired.