This Easy Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad is a refreshing mix of juicy watermelon, crunchy cucumber, and tangy feta cheese. Perfect for hot days and barbecues!
Trust me, this salad will be the star of any picnic. I love how the flavors dance together—sweet, crunchy, and salty. A sprinkle of mint makes it even better! 🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Use sweet and ripe watermelon for the best flavor. If watermelon is unavailable, cantaloupe can be a great substitute.
Cucumber: An English cucumber is ideal for salads because it’s less bitter and has fewer seeds. You can also use Persian cucumbers if you have those on hand.
Feta Cheese: I love using creamy feta for its tangy kick. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu with some added salt for flavor.
Mint: Fresh mint adds a lovely freshness. If you don’t have mint, basil can work in a pinch, providing a different but tasty twist.
Oil and Lime Juice: Olive oil brings richness, while lime juice adds brightness. If you prefer, swap lime for lemon juice to mix things up.
How Do I Keep the Watermelon from Getting Soggy?
Watermelon can release a lot of juice, which might make your salad watery. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Use chilled watermelon for a refreshing bite.
- After cutting watermelon, let it sit in a colander for a few minutes to drain excess liquid.
- Mix ingredients just before serving to prevent them from sitting too long in the dressing.
If you’re prepping ahead, store the components separately and combine just before serving for the best texture!
Easy Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad
Ingredients:
- 4 cups watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 English cucumber, sliced and halved
- 1 cup feta cheese, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes just about 10 minutes to prep! It’s quick to throw together, making it perfect for a last-minute side dish or snack. If you like, you can chill it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Main Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the watermelon cubes, cucumber halves, and feta cheese cubes. This is where the colorful magic starts to happen!
2. Add Freshness:
Next, sprinkle the finely chopped mint leaves over the salad. This will give it a fresh and herbaceous flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the watermelon.
3. Drizzle with Oil and Lime:
Now, drizzle olive oil over the ingredients, and if you’re using lime juice, add that too. These will help enhance the flavors and bring everything together.
4. Toss the Salad:
Gently toss everything together. You want all those lovely ingredients to be well mixed without breaking the watermelon too much. It’s like a little dance in your bowl!
5. Season to Taste:
Sprinkle a bit of salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—make it just right for you!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately for the freshest taste, or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to let those flavors meld beautifully. Enjoy your refreshing, vibrant salad as a delightful side or snack!
FAQ
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If feta isn’t your favorite, you can try goat cheese for a tangy flavor or mozzarella for a milder taste. Both make great alternatives!
How Do I Keep The Salad Fresh for Longer?
To keep your salad fresh, store each ingredient separately. Combine them just before serving to prevent sogginess, especially from the watermelon.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Sure! Feel free to add diced bell peppers for crunch, red onion for flavor, or even some arugula for added greens. Just keep the ingredients balanced to maintain the freshness!
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Salad?
This salad is best served cold, making it perfect for summer picnics or BBQs. Pair it with grilled meats or serve it as a light lunch on its own!
