This bright and refreshing watermelon salad is a perfect summer dish! With juicy watermelon, crumbly feta, and cool mint, it’s a tasty way to beat the heat.
I love serving this salad at parties. It’s colorful and super easy to whip up, plus it makes everyone smile. Who knew summer could taste this good? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: This juicy fruit is the star of the salad. Look for seedless watermelon for ease. If you can’t find watermelon, try cantaloupe or honeydew for a different twist.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a creamy and salty contrast to the sweetness of watermelon. If you’re looking for a substitute, crumbled goat cheese works well. For a dairy-free option, try a firm vegan feta.
Fresh Mint: Mint is what gives this salad a refreshing kick. If you’re not a fan, consider using basil for a unique flavor. Dried mint can work, too, but you’ll need much less, about 1 tablespoon.
Lemon Juice & Zest: The lemon adds brightness. You can replace it with lime juice if that’s what you have. If citrus isn’t your thing, try a splash of balsamic vinegar for a sweeter note.
How Do I Toss the Salad Without Making a Mess?
Tossing the salad gently is key to preserving the watermelon cubes and feta texture. Here’s a simple way to do it:
- Use a large mixing bowl—this gives you plenty of space.
- Use a large spoon or spatula to gently lift and fold the ingredients instead of stirring roughly.
- Start from the bottom and lift it up, rather than mixing it in circles.
- Be light-handed, as you don’t want to break down the watermelon or feta too much.
After mixing, let the salad chill for a little while to enhance the flavors. It’s all about a gentle touch!
Easy Watermelon Salad with Feta and Fresh Mint
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 cups seedless watermelon, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, thinly sliced or chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious watermelon salad takes about 10–15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy to make, perfect for those warm days when you want something refreshing. Plus, if you let it chill for 15–20 minutes in the fridge before serving, the flavors will meld beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cut the Watermelon:
Start by cutting the seedless watermelon into roughly 1-inch cubes. Try to make them as uniform as possible so they mix well. Once cut, place the watermelon cubes in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the Feta Cheese:
Next, crumble the feta cheese over the watermelon. Make sure you sprinkle it evenly so every bite has a delicious mix of flavors!
3. Sprinkle the Fresh Mint:
Now it’s time to add a burst of flavor! Thinly slice or chop the fresh mint leaves and sprinkle them all over the salad. The mint will give your salad a refreshing taste that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of watermelon.
4. Zesty Lemon Addition:
Add the fresh lemon zest to the bowl, distributing it evenly over the salad. If you enjoy a little tanginess, you can also add lemon juice at this point.
5. Seasoning the Salad:
Lightly season with a pinch of sea salt (if you like) and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Seasoning enhances the flavors, so don’t skip this step!
6. Tossing Time:
Gently toss all the ingredients together. Be careful not to break the watermelon cubes or crumbled feta too much. You want everything mixed but still intact.
7. Serve or Chill:
Enjoy it right away as a refreshing side dish or let it chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes. This will help the flavors blend together even more.
This bright, sweet, and salty summer salad is perfect for picnics, BBQs, or as a light snack. Enjoy every colorful bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! While watermelon is the star, you can mix in other fruits like cantaloupe, strawberries, or blueberries for added flavor. Just make sure to keep the fruit sweet for a nice balance with the feta!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the watermelon, feta, and mint in advance, storing them separately. Just combine them and add the seasonings right before serving to keep the flavor fresh and prevent sogginess.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the watermelon will release moisture over time, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh!
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a different option, crumbled goat cheese is a great substitute that still offers creaminess. For a dairy-free alternative, try a firm vegan feta, or skip the cheese entirely for a lighter version!
