Name: Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (plus more for garnish, optional); 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt (or to taste); 1 pinch black pepper (or to taste); 3 cups cubed watermelon; 1 cup quartered cucumber; 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese (plus more for garnish, optional)

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Introduction

This refreshing watermelon salad combines juicy watermelon, crisp cucumber, and tangy feta cheese for a perfect summer treat. The lime and mint dressing adds a bright, zesty flavor that elevates every bite. It’s an easy, light salad ideal for warm days or as a colorful side dish.

The image shows a close-up of a salad in a white bowl with a wooden spoon. The salad has three main layers: bright red watermelon cubes, green cucumber chunks with light green flesh and dark green skin, and crumbled white cheese scattered evenly over the watermelon and cucumber. The watermelon pieces look juicy and smooth, while the cucumbers are crisp and fresh. The white cheese adds a soft, crumbly texture that contrasts with the juicy fruit and crunchy vegetable. The wooden spoon scoops some of the salad from the bowl, showing the colorful mix clearly against the white bowl and white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (or to taste, plus more for garnish, optional)
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt (or to taste)
1 pinch black pepper (or to taste)
3 cups cubed watermelon
1 cup quartered cucumber
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese (plus more for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, chopped mint, lime juice, sea salt, and black pepper until the oil and lime juice are well combined.
Step 2: Add the cubed watermelon, quartered cucumber, and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl. Gently toss the ingredients with a spatula until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 3: Serve the salad immediately or garnish with additional mint and feta if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, add a handful of toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds.
Swap lime juice for lemon juice if preferred, for a slightly different citrus note.
Fresh basil can be used instead of mint for a different herbal flavor.
Chill the salad for 15 minutes before serving to enhance the refreshing taste.

Storage

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Watermelon releases juice over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If refrigerated, stir gently before serving. Avoid freezing as the texture will change.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with a fresh salad made of three main layers: bright red watermelon cubes, light green cucumber chunks with darker green skin, and small white crumbly pieces of cheese scattered evenly on top. Tiny green herb bits are mixed throughout the salad adding a hint of freshness. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a wooden spoon and beige cloth in the soft focused background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the dressing in advance, but it’s best to toss the watermelon, cucumber, and feta just before serving to keep the salad fresh and prevent the ingredients from becoming soggy.

Can I use different cheese instead of feta?

Yes, goat cheese or halloumi can be good substitutes, providing a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor.