Watermelon Feta Salad

Short Description

Watermelon Feta Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that pairs the natural sweetness of juicy watermelon with the savory creaminess of feta cheese. Enhanced with fresh herbs and a zesty lime dressing, this salad is a perfect balance of flavor and texture, ideal for warm-weather meals and entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Refreshing and hydrating, making it perfect for summer.
Combines sweet, salty, and tangy flavors for a balanced taste.
Quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 15 minutes.
Visually stunning with bold colors and fresh ingredients.
Easily customizable with additional fruits, herbs, or vegetables.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cubed seedless watermelon
Diced English cucumber
Thinly sliced red onion
Crumbled feta cheese
Cubed avocado (optional)
Fresh mint leaves, torn
Fresh basil leaves, torn
Thinly sliced jalapeño or serrano pepper (optional)
Extra-virgin olive oil
Fresh lime juice
Minced garlic
Sea salt

Directions

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, and sea salt to create the dressing.
In a large serving bowl or on a platter, layer the cubed watermelon, cucumber, and red onion.
Top with crumbled feta, avocado cubes if using, and the fresh mint and basil.
If desired, add thin slices of jalapeño or serrano pepper for a spicy kick.
Drizzle the salad with the prepared dressing.
Gently toss everything to combine and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add arugula or baby spinach for extra greens.
Include toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for crunch.
Swap feta with goat cheese or a plant-based alternative.
Mix in berries or mango for a fruity variation.
Use a balsamic glaze for a sweeter dressing option.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
This salad is best served fresh. Do not freeze or reheat.
If preparing ahead, keep dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent excess moisture.

FAQs

What type of watermelon works best?

Seedless watermelon is best for ease of preparation and eating.

Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, but store the dressing separately and combine just before serving.

Is there a vegan substitute for feta?

Yes, plant-based feta alternatives or tofu can be used.

What other herbs can I use?

Cilantro or dill can be used in place of mint and basil for a different flavor profile.

Can I add protein?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are great protein additions.

What if I don’t have lime juice?

Lemon juice or a mild vinegar can be used instead.

How do I make the salad spicier?

Add more jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Will the salad get watery?

Watermelon releases moisture over time. Serve immediately after dressing or keep components separate until serving.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, goat cheese or fresh mozzarella work well as alternatives.

Is this good for picnics?

Yes, keep chilled and dress just before serving for the best texture.

Conclusion

Watermelon Feta Salad is a light, colorful, and flavor-packed dish perfect for warm-weather dining. With its combination of juicy watermelon, creamy feta, and aromatic herbs, it offers a delightful contrast of textures and tastes. Whether as a side dish or a light meal, it’s sure to impress at any summer gathering.