Recipe Information
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 15 minutes (optional)
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 6 cups seedless watermelon, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 English cucumber, sliced and quartered
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnishes
- Extra feta cheese
- Fresh mint sprigs
- Lime wedges
- Toasted pumpkin seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Watermelon
Cut the watermelon into bite-sized cubes.
Place the cubes on paper towels for a few minutes to absorb excess moisture.
This helps prevent the salad from becoming watery.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and slice the cucumber.
Thinly slice the red onion.
Chop the fresh mint and tear the basil leaves.
Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Olive oil
- Lime juice
- Honey
- Salt
- Black pepper
Whisk until fully combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large serving bowl, combine:
- Watermelon cubes
- Cucumber
- Red onion
- Mint
- Basil
Gently toss to combine.
Step 5: Add the Feta
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad.
Fold gently to avoid breaking the watermelon.
Step 6: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad.
Toss lightly until everything is coated.
Step 7: Chill (Optional)
For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for 15–20 minutes before serving.
This allows the flavors to meld together.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Top with additional feta cheese, mint leaves, and lime wedges.
Serve cold.
Tips for the Best Watermelon-Feta Salad
Use Cold Watermelon
Chilled watermelon makes the salad extra refreshing.
Add Feta Just Before Serving
This keeps the cheese fresh and prevents it from becoming soggy.
Choose Ripe Watermelon
A sweet, juicy watermelon creates the best flavor contrast.
Don’t Overmix
Gentle tossing keeps the watermelon intact.
Delicious Variations
Mediterranean Watermelon Salad
Add kalamata olives and cherry tomatoes.
Avocado Watermelon Salad
Add diced avocado for extra creaminess.
Spicy Watermelon Salad
Sprinkle with chili flakes or Tajín seasoning.
Berry Watermelon Salad
Mix in fresh blueberries and strawberries.
Arugula Watermelon Salad
Serve over a bed of peppery arugula.
What to Serve with Watermelon-Feta Salad
- Grilled chicken
- Grilled shrimp
- Steak
- Salmon
- Burgers
- BBQ ribs
- Pita bread and hummus
Storage
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
For best results, enjoy the salad the day it is made.
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 320mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and refreshing
- Perfect for summer
- Easy to make
- Sweet and savory flavor combination
- Beautiful presentation
- Healthy and nutritious
- Great for parties and cookouts
