This colorful watermelon salad is a sweet and crunchy delight. With juicy watermelon, crisp cucumber, and creamy feta, it’s the perfect summer treat!
I love how refreshing it is on hot days—it’s like a tasty little vacation in a bowl. Plus, it takes just minutes to whip up. Who doesn’t love easy and delicious? 🍉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Choose a ripe, seedless watermelon for the best sweetness. If watermelon isn’t available, try cantaloupe or honeydew instead for a similar refreshing taste.
Cucumber: English cucumbers have a milder flavor and fewer seeds, but you can use regular cucumbers too. For a twist, consider using a zucchini for a unique texture.
Feta Cheese: I love using feta for its creamy texture and salty taste. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, crumbled tofu or a nut-based cheese can serve as great substitutes.
Fresh Mint: Mint adds a nice aroma and flavor. If you don’t have fresh mint, try using basil or parsley, or even a splash of mint extract as an alternative.
How Do I Ensure My Salad Is Well-Mixed and Tasty?
Mixing your salad gently but thoroughly is key to bringing all the flavors together. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by combining the watermelon and cucumber in a large bowl, making sure the pieces are evenly distributed.
- When adding feta and mint, sprinkle them evenly over the top. This helps with even flavor spread.
- For the olive oil and lime juice, drizzle them all at once to coat the ingredients better.
- Use a large spoon to fold the salad instead of stirring vigorously, which keeps the watermelon pieces intact.
Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Remember, a little salt can enhance the sweetness of the watermelon while balancing the feta! Enjoy your refreshing creation! 🌿
Refreshing Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups seedless watermelon, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 large cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing watermelon salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes chopping and mixing, plus an optional 15 minutes to chill in the refrigerator before serving. Quick and simple!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl. Add the cubed watermelon and diced cucumber. These two fruits will create a juicy, refreshing base for your salad.
2. Add Feta and Mint:
Now, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh mint leaves over the watermelon and cucumber. The mint will add a lovely aroma and flavor!
3. Drizzle with Dressing:
Next, pour the extra-virgin olive oil and fresh lime juice over the salad. This will bring everything together beautifully.
4. Toss Gently:
Using a large spoon, gently toss all the ingredients together until they are well mixed. Be careful not to mash the watermelon; you want to keep those lovely cubes intact!
5. Season to Taste:
Now it’s time to taste and season! Sprinkle in a little salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remember, feta is salty, so be careful not to overdo it.
6. Chill the Salad:
If you have time, pop the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors meld together and makes for a refreshing bite!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, dish out the salad cold. It’s perfect as a side dish for summer barbecues or simply as a light snack. Enjoy this deliciously refreshing salad! 🍉🥗
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Cheese Variants?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of feta, try using goat cheese for a creamier texture or mozzarella for a milder flavor. Crumbled ricotta can also be a nice alternative!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Any leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh, as the watermelon may release moisture over time.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the salad ingredients and store them separately in the fridge. Combine them just before serving to keep the watermelon crisp and fresh!
What Else Can I Add to This Salad?
Feel free to get creative! You can add avocado for creaminess, red onion for a bit of zing, or even some toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch. Chopped bell peppers or berries can also add more flavor and color!
