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This Watermelon Feta Mint Salad is the perfect combination of sweet, salty, tangy, and refreshing. Juicy watermelon, crisp English cucumber, salty feta cheese, and fresh mint come together with a simple honey lime dressing for an easy summer side dish.
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Pin ItReady in just 15 minutes, this colorful watermelon and feta salad is perfect for cookouts, barbecues, potlucks, parties, or any meal that could use something cool and refreshing. The combination may sound simple, but every bite has a little sweetness, crunch, creaminess, and fresh summer flavor.
If your family can polish off a watermelon almost as quickly as you can cut it, this is a fun way to turn it into something a little more special. And there is no cooking involved, which is always a bonus on a hot summer day
Table of Contents
- ❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- What is watermelon feta salad?
- Key Ingredients
- Ingredients & Substitutions
- Variations
- Tips for Best Results
- FAQs
- Storage
- Quick Steps
- Make Ahead
- What to serve with Watermelon Feta Mint Salad
- If You Enjoyed Watermelon Feta Mint Salad
- 📌 Save This Recipe
- Watermelon Feta Mint Salad Recipe
- 🥡 Storage
- ♨️ Reheating
- ❄️ Freezing
- 💡 Tips for Best Results
- 🍳 Alternate Cooking Methods
- ♻️ Leftovers
- 📝 Notes
- 🍽️ Other Recipes You May Enjoy
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 15 minutes. There is no cooking involved. Just chop, mix, dress, and serve.
- Perfect for summer. Cold watermelon and cucumber make this salad especially refreshing on hot days.
- Sweet and savory. Juicy watermelon and honey balance the salty feta and tangy lime beautifully.
- Great for gatherings. Take it to cookouts, barbecues, potlucks, picnics, and summer parties.
- Bright and colorful. This is one of those side dishes that looks just as good as it tastes.
- Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian. It is an easy option when you are serving a crowd with different dietary needs.
What is watermelon feta salad?
Watermelon feta salad is a refreshing, sweet, and savory salad made with juicy watermelon and salty feta cheese. Fresh herbs, cucumber, citrus, and simple dressings are often added to balance the flavors and textures.
In this watermelon feta salad recipe, English cucumber adds a fresh crunch while mint adds a cool, fragrant flavor. A simple dressing made with honey, lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, and salt ties everything together.
The contrast is what makes this salad so good. Sweet watermelon, salty feta, crisp cucumber, fresh mint, and tangy lime all bring something different to each bite.
Key Ingredients
NOTE: This section highlights ingredients used in the recipe. Find the full printable recipe in the recipe card below.
Watermelon – Use ripe, seedless watermelon for the best flavor and easiest prep. You will need 6 cups, cut into 1- to 2-inch cubes.
English cucumber – English cucumber adds plenty of crunch without overpowering the watermelon. It also has a thin skin, so there is no need to peel it.
Fresh mint – Fresh mint gives this salad its signature cool summer flavor. Julienne the leaves into thin strips so you get a little mint throughout the salad.
Feta cheese – Salty, creamy feta is the perfect contrast to sweet watermelon. Crumbled feta and feta from a block both work.
Honey – A tablespoon of honey adds just enough sweetness to balance the lime. You can add a little more if you prefer a less tangy dressing.
Lime juice – Fresh lime juice gives the dressing a bright, tangy flavor that works especially well with watermelon and mint.
Extra virgin olive oil – A small amount helps bring the dressing together and lightly coats the watermelon and cucumber.
Ingredients & Substitutions
NOTE: This section suggests substitutions. Find the full printable recipe in the recipe card below.
- Seedless watermelon – Seedless watermelon makes this salad easier to eat and gives you plenty of juicy sweetness. Another variety of ripe watermelon can be used, but remove any large seeds before assembling the salad. There is no good substitute for watermelon if you want the intended flavor of this recipe.
- English cucumber – Regular cucumber can be substituted. If using a standard cucumber with thick or waxy skin, peel it first. Remove any large, tough seeds if necessary. Persian cucumbers would also work well because of their crisp texture and thin skin.
- Fresh mint leaves – Fresh mint is an important part of the flavor of Watermelon Feta Mint Salad. Another fresh herb, such as basil, could create a different but complementary flavor, although it will noticeably change the character of the salad. Dried mint is not recommended.
- Feta cheese – Either pre-crumbled feta or feta from a block works. For a different flavor, another salty, crumbly cheese could be used, although feta provides the classic sweet-salty pairing with watermelon. For the intended flavor, feta is the best choice.
- Honey – The honey balances the tart lime juice. You can adjust the amount to taste. Maple syrup can be used as an alternative sweetener, but it will add its own distinct flavor.
- Lime juice – Fresh lime juice gives the dressing its bright, tangy flavor. Balsamic vinegar can be substituted for a deeper, richer flavor, as noted in the original recipe variations. Lemon juice could also work if lime is unavailable, although it will change the flavor slightly.
- Extra virgin olive oil – A mild olive oil can be used instead. Because only a small amount is needed, choose an oil with a flavor you enjoy.
- Salt – Salt balances the sweet and tangy flavors and complements the feta. Because feta is already salty, you can reduce the added salt to suit your taste.
Variations
- Add red onion. Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharper savory flavor and extra crunch.
- Try pickled onions. Pickled red onions give the salad a sweet and tangy bite that works beautifully with the watermelon.
- Add avocado. Diced avocado adds a creamy texture. Add it shortly before serving so it stays fresh.
- Use balsamic vinegar. Replace the lime juice with balsamic vinegar for a deeper, slightly richer flavor.
- Make it sweeter. Add a little extra honey to the dressing if your watermelon is not especially sweet or you prefer less tang.
- Add more cucumber. If you love the crunchy side of this salad, increase the cucumber for an even more refreshing watermelon and cucumber salad.
Tips for Best Results
- Start with cold watermelon. Chilled watermelon makes this salad especially refreshing.
- Choose ripe watermelon. Since watermelon is the star of the recipe, its flavor makes a big difference.
- Keep the pieces fairly large. Cutting the watermelon and cucumber into 1 to 2-inch cubes helps keep the salad from becoming mushy.
- Toss gently. Watermelon can break down easily, so use a light hand when combining everything.
- Use fresh mint. Dried mint will not give you the same bright flavor or texture.
- Wait to add the mint when making ahead. If the salad will sit for a few hours, add the mint closer to serving so it stays bright and green.
- Taste the dressing. Add a little more honey if you want to soften the tanginess of the lime.
FAQs
Look for a watermelon that feels heavy for its size and has a creamy yellow field spot. The field spot is the area where the watermelon rested on the ground as it ripened.
A good watermelon should feel firm and heavy. Choosing a ripe, flavorful watermelon is especially important for this recipe because it is the main ingredient.
Yes. Either crumbled feta or a block of feta cheese will work for this Watermelon Feta Mint Salad.
If you use a block, simply crumble the amount you need before adding it to the salad.
Red onion, pickled onions, and diced avocado are all delicious additions.
You can also change the dressing by replacing the lime juice with balsamic vinegar for a deeper, slightly richer flavor.
Yes. You can assemble the salad a few hours before serving.
If you are making it ahead, add the fresh mint closer to serving time so it stays bright and green.
Both watermelon and cucumber contain a lot of water. Once they are cut and combined with salt and dressing, they naturally begin releasing some of that liquid.
This is normal, but it is also why Watermelon Feta Mint Salad is best enjoyed fresh rather than stored for several days.
Yes. A regular cucumber can be used if that is what you have available.
Depending on the cucumber, you may prefer to peel it if the skin is thick or waxy. You may also want to remove large or tough seeds before cutting it into cubes.
It is sweet, salty, tangy, and refreshing all at once. The watermelon provides juicy sweetness, the cucumber adds crunch, the feta brings a salty creaminess, and the mint adds a fresh herbal flavor.
The honey lime dressing brings those contrasting flavors together without covering up the watermelon.
Storage
Store leftover watermelon feta salad covered in the refrigerator.
Keep in mind that watermelon and cucumber naturally release liquid after they are cut, so the salad will become wetter as it sits. For the best flavor and texture, this is a salad you will want to enjoy while it is fresh.
Quick Steps
NOTE: This section includes a step-by-step guide. Find the full printable recipe in the recipe card below.
- Prep the watermelon and cucumber. Cut both into 1 to 2-inch cubes and place them in a serving bowl.
- Slice the mint. Julienne the fresh mint leaves into thin strips.
- Assemble the salad. Add the mint and crumbled feta to the watermelon and cucumber.
- Toss gently. Carefully combine the ingredients without crushing the watermelon or feta.
- Make the dressing. Whisk together the honey, lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, and salt.
- Dress and serve. Pour the dressing over the salad, gently toss, and serve.
Make Ahead
Watermelon Feta Mint Salad can be prepared a few hours before serving.
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For the freshest appearance, wait to add the julienned mint until closer to serving. This helps the leaves stay bright and green instead of darkening as the salad sits.
Keep the salad refrigerated until you are ready to serve it.
What to serve with Watermelon Feta Mint Salad
This watermelon and cucumber salad is a natural choice for summer cookouts and barbecues. Its fresh, sweet flavor makes it especially good alongside richer grilled foods and classic picnic dishes.
Serve it with grilled chicken, burgers, hot dogs, barbecue, sandwiches, or your favorite summer main dish. It is also a colorful addition to a potluck or picnic spread.
Because the salad is so light and refreshing, it works particularly well when the rest of the menu includes heavier or smoky foods.
If You Enjoyed Watermelon Feta Mint Salad
If you’re looking for another colorful side dish that’s perfect for warm weather, you’ll love Rainbow Fruit Salad with Honey Citrus Dressing. It’s packed with fresh fruit and makes a great addition to barbecues, picnics, and potlucks when you want something light and refreshing.
For a heartier option that still feels fresh, try Greek Chicken Salad. It has bright Mediterranean flavors that pair beautifully with this watermelon salad, making them a delicious combination for lunch or dinner.
If you enjoy crisp vegetables and bold flavors, Asian Cucumber Salad is another recipe worth making. The cool, crunchy cucumbers and vibrant dressing make it a refreshing side that’s ideal for summer meals.
Need another easy dish to bring to a cookout? Summer Veggie Pasta Salad is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time and complements grilled meats, burgers, and sandwiches just as well as this watermelon salad.
If sweet and savory salads are your thing, California Chicken Salad is another recipe you’ll want to bookmark. It’s loaded with fresh ingredients and makes an easy lunch or light dinner.
For another fresh summer favorite, make Mexican Bean Salad. It’s colorful, full of texture, and perfect for potlucks, picnics, or meal prep throughout the week.
If you’re planning a complete summer spread, add a bowl of Old Fashioned Potato Salad to the menu. It’s a backyard barbecue classic that pairs perfectly with grilled favorites alongside this refreshing watermelon salad.
📌 Save This Recipe
Save this Watermelon Feta Mint Salad to Pinterest so you have an easy summer side dish ready for your next cookout, barbecue, picnic, or potluck. It is especially handy when watermelon season is in full swing, and you need something quick, cool, and refreshing.
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Watermelon Feta Mint Salad
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Equipment
- small bowl
- fork
- serving bowl
Ingredients
Salad ingredients
- 6 cups seedless watermelon
- 2 cups English cucumber
- 15 fresh mint leaves
- ⅔ cup feta cheese, crumbled
Dressing ingredients
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 to 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Cut the watermelon and English cucumber into 1 to 2-inch cubes. Place them in a serving bowl.6 cups seedless watermelon, 2 cups English cucumber
- Julienne the mint leaves into thin strips.15 fresh mint leaves
- Sprinkle the mint over the watermelon and cucumber.
- Add the crumbled feta cheese.⅔ cup feta cheese
- Gently toss until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- In a small bowl, combine the honey, lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, and salt. Mix until fully combined.1 tablespoon honey, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 to 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, ¼ teaspoon salt
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for a few hours before serving. If making the salad ahead, add the mint just before serving so it stays bright and green.
Notes
🥡 Storage
- Store leftover Watermelon Feta Mint Salad covered in the refrigerator. The watermelon and cucumber will release more liquid as the salad sits, so it is best enjoyed fresh.
♨️ Reheating
- No reheating is necessary. This salad is meant to be served cold or chilled.
❄️ Freezing
- Freezing is not recommended. Watermelon and cucumber contain a high amount of water and will lose their crisp, fresh texture after freezing and thawing.
💡 Tips for Best Results
- Use ripe, sweet watermelon for the best flavor.
- Chill the watermelon before assembling the salad for an extra-refreshing side dish.
- Cut the watermelon and cucumber into similar-sized pieces.
- Toss gently so the watermelon and feta do not break apart.
- Add a little more honey if you prefer a less tangy dressing.
- If making the salad ahead, add the mint shortly before serving so it stays bright and green.
🍳 Alternate Cooking Methods
- None are recommended. This is a fresh, no-cook salad.
♻️ Leftovers
- Leftovers can be enjoyed cold straight from the refrigerator. Expect some extra liquid to collect in the bottom of the container as the watermelon and cucumber sit.
📝 Notes
- Either crumbled feta or feta from a block can be used.
- English cucumber does not need to be peeled.
- Red onion, pickled onion, or avocado can be added for a variation.
- Balsamic vinegar can be used in place of lime juice for a deeper flavor.
- Add additional honey to taste if you prefer a sweeter, less tangy dressing.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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