When the temperatures rise, there’s nothing better than a fresh, juicy salad that hits every note of sweet, salty, and tangy. This Watermelon and Feta Salad is the ultimate summer side dish, combining crisp watermelon cubes with creamy feta cheese, fresh mint, and a zingy lime dressing. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for picnics, BBQs, or even as a light lunch.
Why You’ll Love This Watermelon and Feta Salad
- Quick & Easy: Just 10 minutes to prep!
- Sweet and Savory: Juicy watermelon contrasts perfectly with salty feta.
- Refreshing: Mint and lime add a bright, cooling touch.
- Healthy: Hydrating and packed with vitamins.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Beautiful presentation that always impresses guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled or diced
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional for extra sweetness)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make Watermelon and Feta Salad
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Salad: Place the cubed watermelon in a large bowl. Top with crumbled feta, chopped mint, and sliced red onion.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine. Be careful not to mash the watermelon.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately or chill for 15-30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
H3: Pro Tips for the Best Watermelon Feta Salad
- Use seedless watermelon for easy eating.
- Make sure your watermelon is chilled before assembling for maximum refreshment.
- Add a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds for crunch.
- Swap mint for basil if you prefer a different herb flavor.
- Want it spicy? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
Variations on Watermelon and Feta Salad
- Cucumber Watermelon Salad: Add sliced cucumber for extra crunch.
- Balsamic Drizzle: Finish with a light balsamic glaze for tang.
- Arugula Base: Serve over a bed of peppery arugula for a heartier salad.
How to Store Watermelon Feta Salad
This salad is best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The watermelon will release liquid over time, so drain excess liquid before serving leftovers.
Can I make watermelon and feta salad ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients a few hours ahead, but don’t toss everything together until just before serving to keep the salad crisp.
Can I use other cheeses?
Yes! Goat cheese or ricotta salata are great alternatives to feta.
How do I pick a ripe watermelon?
Look for a heavy watermelon with a creamy yellow spot on the underside and a deep, hollow sound when tapped.
Why Watermelon and Feta Are the Perfect Pair
The combination of sweet, juicy watermelon and salty, creamy feta cheese is a classic Mediterranean-inspired match made in heaven. This salad balances flavor and texture beautifully, making it a standout summer dish that’s always a hit.
PrintWatermelon and Feta Salad – The Perfect Summer Side Dish
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing summer salad combining sweet, juicy watermelon with salty feta, fresh mint, and a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for warm days or potlucks.
Ingredients
4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled or diced
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lime
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Place cubed watermelon in a large bowl. Top with feta, mint, and sliced onion.
3. Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately or chill for 15-30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use chilled watermelon for best results.
For extra flavor, sprinkle with a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg