This Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad is light and full of flavor. It combines sweet watermelon, crunchy cucumber, and crumbly feta cheese for a delightful mix!
I love how this salad is perfect for hot days. It’s colorful, easy to whip up, and always impresses guests at summer picnics. Who doesn’t enjoy a tasty snack that looks pretty too? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: This is the star of the salad! Sweet and juicy, make sure to pick a ripe watermelon—look for one that’s heavy for its size with a uniform color. If watermelon is hard to find, you can try cantaloupe for a different twist!
Cucumber: A great addition for crunch! I usually use English cucumbers since they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, which means no peeling required. If you’re in a pinch, regular cucumbers work too, just peel them first.
Feta Cheese: Adds a salty creaminess that balances the sweetness of the watermelon. If you’re not a fan of feta or need a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu or vegan feta for a creamy texture without the dairy.
Fresh Herbs: Mint and basil add wonderful freshness. If you can’t find fresh herbs, you might sprinkle a bit of dried mint or basil, although fresh is best. You could also use parsley for a different flavor.
How Do You Keep the Watermelon from Getting Mushy?
Handling the watermelon gently is key to keeping the salad fresh and not watery. Here’s how to keep it crisp:
- Cut watermelon into cubes right before you’re ready to serve to prevent it from sitting and leaking juices.
- If you want to prep ahead, store the watermelon separately and combine it with other ingredients just before serving.
- Don’t add salt until right before eating—salt draws out moisture, which can make the salad soggy.
With these tips, your salad will be crunchy and refreshing, perfect for any occasion! Enjoy putting this together!
Refreshing Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 4 cups watermelon, cut into cubes
- 2 cups cucumber, peeled and cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped (reserve some whole leaves for garnish)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (reserve some whole leaves for garnish)
Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- Salt, to taste (optional and sparingly)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare. With no cooking involved, you can whip it up in no time! It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you chill it for 15-20 minutes, the flavors can meld beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the watermelon cubes and cucumber cubes. This creates a wonderful fresh base for your salad.
2. Add the Feta:
Gently mix in the crumbled feta cheese to the bowl. This will add a nice creamy and salty element that complements the juicy fruit.
3. Incorporate Fresh Herbs:
Finely chop the fresh mint and basil leaves, then sprinkle them over the salad. Remember to save a handful of whole leaves for a lovely garnish later!
4. Drizzle in the Dressing:
Pour the extra virgin olive oil and fresh lime juice over the salad. This light dressing will enhance the flavors of the ingredients beautifully.
5. Toss Gently:
With a gentle touch, toss the salad to mix everything well, keeping in mind not to crush the watermelon too much.
6. Season to Taste:
Take a moment to taste your salad. If you like, add a pinch of salt and some freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors, but keep in mind that feta tends to be salty on its own!
7. Serve and Garnish:
If you’d like, transfer the salad to a serving dish and top it with the reserved whole mint and basil leaves for a finishing touch.
8. Enjoy Chilled or Fresh:
This salad is best served immediately if you want the freshest flavors. If you have time, chilling it for 15-20 minutes lets the ingredients soak in the dressing and enhances the taste!
Enjoy this delightful and refreshing salad that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings, picnics, or simply as a light lunch. Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese Instead of Feta?
Absolutely! If feta isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with goat cheese for a tangy taste or mozzarella for a milder flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture and saltiness will differ slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
To store any leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best consumed within 1-2 days. However, be aware that the watermelon may release water over time, making the salad slightly less crisp.
Can I Make This Salad a Day Ahead?
While you can prepare the watermelon, cucumber, and herbs a day ahead, it’s best to assemble the salad right before serving to maintain freshness. If you do make it ahead, add the feta and dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess.
What Other Fruits or Veggies Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! Adding diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even strawberries can give the salad extra color and flavor. Just be cautious about the additional moisture they might release!
