Looking for a vibrant and refreshing salad perfect for summer? Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta is the ideal dish to cool down on hot days while enjoying a burst of fresh flavors. The combination of sweet, juicy watermelon with crisp cucumber, tangy feta, and fresh mint creates a salad that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply craving a light lunch, this watermelon salad is sure to be a hit.
The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized with your favorite fresh herbs or other fruits. The Greek watermelon feta salad version adds a Mediterranean twist with ingredients like olives or red onions, making it a versatile option for various occasions.
Let’s explore how to make this watermelon feta mint salad and how to incorporate it into your summer meals.
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Why Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta is Perfect for Summer
Watermelon salad with cucumber and feta is a refreshing, light dish that’s perfect for warm weather. The natural sweetness of the watermelon pairs beautifully with the saltiness of the feta, while the cucumber adds a crisp, refreshing crunch. The addition of mint gives the salad a burst of freshness, making it the perfect side dish for any summer gathering.
This salad is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Watermelon is rich in vitamins A and C, and cucumber adds hydration and fiber. Feta cheese provides a creamy and tangy contrast, making the salad as satisfying as it is healthy. If you’re looking for watermelon recipes or fresh salad recipes that are easy to prepare and full of flavor, this dish should be on your list.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta
To make this watermelon feta mint salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 cups watermelon, cubed (about half a medium watermelon)
- 1 cucumber, sliced thinly
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: A handful of fresh blueberries for extra color and flavor
These ingredients come together to create a refreshing, sweet, and savory salad that’s perfect for any summer occasion. For a more Mediterranean twist, you can also add Kalamata olives or red onions for additional flavor.
If you’re looking for more ways to use watermelon, try pairing this salad with Greek Chicken Souvlaki or Mediterranean Grilled Vegetables for a complete meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta
This watermelon salad with cucumber and feta is incredibly easy to make. Here’s how to prepare it:
- Prepare the watermelon: Cut the watermelon into bite-sized cubes. If you prefer, you can scoop the watermelon into balls using a melon baller for a fun presentation.
- Slice the cucumber: Thinly slice the cucumber into rounds or half-moons. If you prefer a bit of crunch, leave the peel on, or peel it for a smoother texture.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the watermelon, cucumber, and crumbled feta cheese. Gently toss to combine.
- Add mint: Chop the fresh mint leaves and sprinkle them over the salad for a burst of freshness. Mint pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the watermelon and the tanginess of the feta.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle the olive oil and lime juice over the salad. Toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is well-coated.
- Season: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. You may want to add a pinch of salt to bring out the sweetness of the watermelon.
- Serve: Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
This quick and easy watermelon feta mint salad is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying a family dinner or serving it at a summer BBQ.
How to Customize Your Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta
One of the best parts about watermelon salad recipes is their versatility. Here are some ways to customize the basic recipe:
- Add berries: For a fun twist, consider adding blueberries or strawberries to the salad. The combination of sweet watermelon, tangy feta, and fresh berries is a match made in heaven.
- Incorporate olives: For a Mediterranean touch, add some Kalamata olives to the salad. They pair wonderfully with the salty feta and add an extra layer of flavor.
- Use different herbs: If you prefer basil or parsley instead of mint, feel free to make the swap. Fresh basil pairs especially well with watermelon and feta.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of spicy honey for a bit of heat and sweetness.
You can even try a blueberry watermelon feta mint salad by swapping the mint for basil or adding in extra berries for a colorful twist.
Serving Suggestions for Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta
This watermelon feta mint salad pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes. Here are some great serving suggestions:
- Grilled meats: Serve the salad alongside grilled chicken, lamb, or fish. The refreshing watermelon and cucumber will balance out the richness of the grilled meats.
- Grilled vegetables: Pair it with Mediterranean grilled vegetables for a light and healthy meal.
- Tacos or wraps: This salad also works wonderfully as a side dish for tacos or wraps. It’s a great option for adding some freshness to your meal.
For a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal, try serving this salad with Greek Chicken Souvlaki and Roasted Potatoes with Lemon for a fresh and satisfying dinner.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta
Watermelon salad with cucumber and feta is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:
- In the fridge: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 1 day. The mint may wilt, so it’s best to add it fresh right before serving.
- Do not freeze: Watermelon has a high water content and doesn’t freeze well, so it’s best to consume this salad within a day of making it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta
To ensure your watermelon salad turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t make it too early: Watermelon releases water as it sits, so it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving. If you need to prepare it ahead of time, you can prep the ingredients and combine them right before serving.
- Don’t skip the seasoning: The sweetness of the watermelon needs a bit of salt to bring out its flavor. Don’t skip the salt and pepper, as they elevate the taste of the entire dish.
- Don’t use too much dressing: The key to this salad is keeping the flavors fresh. A light drizzle of olive oil and lime juice is all you need, so avoid overdoing it with the dressing.
FAQs About Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients (watermelon, cucumber, and feta) and refrigerate them separately. Combine them just before serving to keep the salad fresh.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! If you don’t have feta, you can substitute with goat cheese or even mozzarella. The creamy texture of these cheeses will complement the sweetness of the watermelon.
Can I add other fruits?
Absolutely! Feel free to add fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or peaches to this salad for added flavor and color.
Conclusion: Why Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta Should Be Your Go-To Summer Dish
This watermelon salad with cucumber and feta is the perfect addition to any summer meal. It’s refreshing, healthy, and easy to make, making it ideal for everything from casual dinners to special occasions. With its balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors, this Greek watermelon feta salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
So, next time you need a fresh salad recipe, give this one a try. Don’t forget to share, save, and subscribe for more delicious and easy-to-make salads!
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Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta: A Refreshing and Flavorful Summer Dish
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This watermelon salad with cucumber and feta is the perfect summer dish, combining sweet, juicy watermelon with crisp cucumber, tangy feta, and fresh mint. It’s a refreshing, easy-to-make salad ideal for BBQs, potlucks, and light lunches.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 4 cups watermelon, cubed (about half a medium watermelon)
- 1 cucumber, sliced thinly
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: A handful of fresh blueberries for extra color and flavor
Instructions
- Prepare the watermelon: Cut the watermelon into bite-sized cubes, or use a melon baller for fun presentation.
- Slice the cucumber: Thinly slice the cucumber into rounds or half-moons.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the watermelon, cucumber, and crumbled feta. Toss gently to combine.
- Add mint: Chop the fresh mint and sprinkle it over the salad.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle olive oil and lime juice over the salad, tossing gently to coat.
- Season: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Serve immediately, or chill for 30 minutes before serving to meld the flavors.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil or parsley can be used in place of mint for a different twist.
- Customize the salad: Add berries like strawberries or blueberries for extra flavor and color.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
