This refreshing watermelon feta salad is the perfect summer dish! It’s a fun mix of sweet watermelon and salty feta cheese, topped with mint leaves for extra flavor.
Every bite feels like a mini vacation! I love serving it at parties; it’s a hit every time. Just toss everything together, and you’re good to go—no cooking required! 🍉🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Choose a seedless watermelon for convenience. If watermelon isn’t available, try cantaloupe or honeydew for a similar refreshing taste.
Feta Cheese: This adds a creamy, salty contrast. If you prefer a milder cheese, goat cheese is a great alternative. For dairy-free, try tofu feta.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint brightens the salad. If mint isn’t available, basil or cilantro can also add a nice flavor twist.
Red Onion: This is optional but adds a bite. If you find red onion too strong, green onions or shallots are great substitutes.
Olive Oil: Extra-virgin olive oil is best for richness. If you want to lighten it up, you can use a splash of balsamic vinegar instead.
How Do You Assemble the Salad Without Mashing the Watermelon?
To keep the watermelon cubes intact, handle them gently while mixing. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a large mixing bowl to give space when tossing.
- Add the watermelon, feta, and mint first before drizzling the olive oil and lime juice.
- Toss gently with your hands or a large spoon, using a folding motion to combine rather than stirring vigorously.
- Chilling the salad is key; it not only enhances the flavors but allows the salad to firm up slightly.
Following these tips will keep your salad looking beautiful and fresh! Enjoy your vibrant and tasty watermelon feta salad! 🍉🧀
Refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (or lemon juice)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful watermelon feta salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 15-20 minutes for chilling in the refrigerator. It’s quick to make and perfect for hot days when you want something refreshing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, add the 4 cups of watermelon cubes, 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese, the 1/4 cup of chopped mint leaves, and the sliced red onion if you’re using it. This creates a colorful and tasty mix!
2. Add Dressings
Next, drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice over the salad. These will bring all the flavors together beautifully.
3. Toss Gently
Now it’s time to mix! Gently toss everything together to combine the ingredients. Be careful here—not to mash the watermelon! Use a folding motion so it stays chunky.
4. Season and Chill
Season your salad lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Keep in mind that feta cheese is already salty, so go easy on the salt. Next, cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld and makes the salad super refreshing!
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Once chilled, serve the salad cold as a delightful side dish or a light appetizer. It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or just a light summer meal. Enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ for Refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! Other fruits like cantaloupe, honeydew, or strawberries can work beautifully in this salad. Just keep the same ratio of fruit to feta for the best flavor balance.
How Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover watermelon feta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The watermelon may release some juice, but it will still taste great! Just give it a gentle toss before serving again.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance! Just wait to add the dressing until you’re ready to serve to keep the watermelon fresh and prevent it from becoming mushy.
What Can I Use Instead of Feta Cheese?
If you don’t have feta or prefer a different flavor, goat cheese or even a dairy-free feta option works well. You might also try a mild cheese like ricotta for a different texture while keeping the creaminess!
