This refreshing watermelon cucumber feta salad is perfect for hot days! It’s colorful, crunchy, and has a nice sweet and salty mix. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
Make sure you have enough feta to sprinkle on top because it really makes this salad shine! I love grabbing a bowl of this while lounging outside. It’s like summer in a dish! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Choose a ripe watermelon for the best sweetness and juiciness. If watermelon isn’t available, cantaloupe could work as a tasty substitute. It won’t have the same crunch but will still be sweet.
Cucumber: English cucumbers are great for this salad since they have fewer seeds and a thin skin. If those aren’t around, any firm cucumber will do. Just peel and seed regular cucumbers if they’re bitter.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a salty finish to the salad. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu or a dairy-free feta alternative. You can also swap feta with goat cheese for a creamy tang!
Fresh Herbs: Mint and basil add wonderful freshness. If fresh herbs are hard to find, dried herbs can work in a pinch, though they won’t have the same punch. Use 1 teaspoon of dried mint and basil instead, but fresh is best!
How Do You Mix It Without Breaking the Watermelon?
Mixing this salad requires a gentle touch to keep the watermelon cubes intact. Here’s how:
- Start by combining the watermelon and cucumber carefully in a large bowl.
- Add the herbs and drizzle with olive oil and lime juice.
- Use a large spoon or spatula to gently fold the ingredients together rather than stirring vigorously. This keeps the watermelon cubes from breaking apart.
- Finally, sprinkle the feta on top without mixing it in, so it stays in nice, crumbly pieces.
Chilling the salad before serving helps meld all the flavors without disrupting the texture!
How to Make Easy Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups cucumber, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped or whole small leaves
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste (optional and light, as feta is salty)
- Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad comes together quickly! You’ll spend about 15 minutes preparing the ingredients, and then it is best to chill for 15-30 minutes in the fridge. In total, you’re looking at about 30-45 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base
Start by cutting the watermelon and cucumber into 1-inch cubes. Place them into a large mixing bowl. This creates a nice base for your salad and gives it a colorful appearance.
2. Add Fresh Herbs
Next, chop up the fresh mint and basil. Add them to the bowl with the watermelon and cucumber. The herbs bring a refreshing flavor to the mix!
3. Dress the Salad
Drizzle the fresh lime juice and olive oil over the salad ingredients. This not only adds flavor but also helps to brighten the salad!
4. Toss Gently
Use a large spoon to gently toss everything together. Be careful not to break up the watermelon cubes—just fold the ingredients until they are nicely mixed.
5. Add Feta
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top of the salad. It gives a beautiful finish and adds that wonderful salty taste.
6. Season and Chill
Lightly season your salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper if you like. Then, cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
After chilling, give the salad one last gentle toss and serve it cold. Enjoy this refreshing dish as a side at barbecues or as a light lunch.
This salad is a delightful blend of sweet watermelon, crisp cucumber, and salty feta, perfectly balanced with the freshness of mint and basil, and a zing from lime juice. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese Instead of Feta?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of feta, you can substitute it with goat cheese for a tangy twist or even mozzarella for a milder flavor. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will change the taste profile of the salad slightly!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the watermelon might release more juice over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can prep the watermelon, cucumber, and herbs ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Just mix everything together and add the dressing right before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
What Variations Can I Try?
Feel free to get creative! Add diced avocado for creaminess, or toss in some grilled shrimp for added protein. You can also experiment with different herbs like cilantro or parsley for a unique flavor twist!
