Name: Watermelon Salad with Feta
Prep time: 14 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 4 cups seedless watermelon (cubed); 2 cups baby spinach (washed and dried); 1/2 cup red onion (thinly sliced); 1 cup grape tomatoes (halved); 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled); 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil; 1 teaspoon honey; 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

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Watermelon Salad with Feta is the perfect summer dish that combines juicy, sweet watermelon with creamy, salty feta for a refreshing and flavorful bite. This salad is your go-to for hot days, picnics, or when you want something light yet satisfying to serve at a barbecue or potluck. I first made this for a Fourth of July cookout a few years back, and it was an instant hit—everyone was asking for seconds! The mix of crisp cucumber, tangy lime, and fresh mint makes it feel like a party in your mouth. Whether you’re chilling with friends or just craving a quick, healthy side, this Watermelon Salad with Feta is as easy as it is delicious.

This salad comes together in about 15 minutes, and it’s so versatile you can tweak it to your liking. Let’s get into why this dish is about to become your summer staple!

Why You’ll Love This Watermelon Salad with Feta

Sweet and Salty Perfection: The juicy watermelon pairs beautifully with the salty feta for a balanced, crave-worthy flavor.
Super Quick to Make: Ready in 15 minutes with minimal prep—no cooking required!
Light and Refreshing: Perfect for hot days when you want something cooling and hydrating.
Customizable: Add your favorite herbs, swap ingredients, or adjust the dressing to make it your own.
Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings, from casual picnics to fancy brunches.
Healthy and Vibrant: Packed with fresh produce, it’s as nutritious as it is pretty.
Minimal Ingredients: Uses simple, affordable ingredients you likely already have.

Ingredients for This Watermelon Salad with Feta

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this refreshing salad, along with some tips for picking the best ingredients:

Seedless Watermelon (4–5 cups, cubed): Choose a ripe watermelon that feels heavy for its size and has a deep, hollow sound when tapped. Cut into bite-sized chunks for easy eating.
Feta Cheese (½ cup, crumbled): Go for a block of feta in brine for the best flavor and crumble it yourself. Pre-crumbled can work but may be drier.
Cucumber (1 medium, diced): English or Persian cucumbers are ideal for their crisp texture and fewer seeds. Peel if you prefer a milder flavor.
Fresh Mint (¼ cup, chopped): Fresh mint adds a bright, cooling note. Tear or chop it just before adding to keep it vibrant.
Lime (1, juiced): Fresh lime juice gives a zesty kick. Roll the lime on the counter to maximize juice output.
Olive Oil (1–2 tablespoons): A good-quality extra virgin olive oil adds a subtle richness to the dressing.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Just a pinch enhances the flavors. Use sea salt or kosher salt for the best effect.
Optional: Red Onion (¼ cup, thinly sliced): Adds a slight bite for extra depth, but skip if you prefer milder flavors.

Pro Tip: Chill your watermelon in the fridge before cubing—it makes the salad extra refreshing!

How to Make Watermelon Salad with Feta – Step-by-Step

This Watermelon Salad with Feta is a breeze to put together. Follow these steps for a fresh, flavorful dish in no time.

Prep the Watermelon: Cut the watermelon into 1-inch cubes, removing any seeds if needed. Aim for about 4–5 cups and place them in a large mixing bowl. Mini-Tip: Use a melon baller for cute, round shapes if you’re feeling fancy!
Add the Cucumber: Dice the cucumber into bite-sized pieces and add it to the bowl with the watermelon. This adds a crisp, refreshing crunch. Mini-Tip: If using a regular cucumber, scoop out the seeds to avoid excess water.
Crumble the Feta: Sprinkle ½ cup of crumbled feta over the watermelon and cucumber. Break it up with your fingers for uneven, rustic chunks. Mini-Tip: If you like a stronger feta flavor, add a bit more, but don’t overpower the watermelon’s sweetness.
Chop the Mint: Finely chop or tear ¼ cup of fresh mint leaves and scatter them over the salad. The mint adds a burst of freshness that ties everything together. Mini-Tip: Save a few leaves for garnish to make it look extra pretty.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the juice of 1 lime, 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Mini-Tip: For a sweeter dressing, add a teaspoon of honey.
Toss the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, being careful not to mash the watermelon. If using red onion, add it now for a bit of zing. Mini-Tip: Use your hands or tongs to toss lightly for even coating.
Serve and Garnish: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or platter. Garnish with extra mint leaves or a sprinkle of feta for a picture-perfect finish. Serve immediately or chill for up to an hour. Mini-Tip: Serve in chilled bowls for an extra-cool experience.

Helpful Tips for Watermelon Salad with Feta

Meal Prep: Cube the watermelon and cucumber up to a day ahead and store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Add feta, mint, and dressing just before serving to keep it fresh.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The watermelon may release some juice, so give it a gentle stir before serving.
Serving Tip: This salad is best served cold, so keep it refrigerated until ready to eat. Avoid leaving it out too long, as the watermelon can get soggy.
Pairing Ideas: Pair with grilled shrimp, barbecue chicken, or a light pasta dish for a summer meal. It’s also great with crusty bread to soak up the juices.
Creative Twists: Try adding arugula for a peppery kick, swap feta for goat cheese, or toss in some blueberries for a colorful twist. For a spicy version, sprinkle in a pinch of chili flakes.
Make it Vegan: Swap the feta for a vegan cheese alternative or skip it entirely and add avocado for creaminess.

FAQs About Watermelon Salad with Feta

Q: Can I make Watermelon Salad with Feta ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prep the ingredients a day in advance, but assemble the salad just before serving to keep the textures crisp and the flavors fresh.

Q: What’s the best way to pick a ripe watermelon?
A: Look for a watermelon with a creamy yellow spot (where it sat on the ground), a deep hollow sound when tapped, and a heavy feel for its size.

Q: Can I use a different cheese instead of feta?
A: Absolutely! Goat cheese, queso fresco, or even mozzarella balls work well. Each gives a slightly different flavor and texture.

Q: How do I keep the salad from getting watery?
A: Use seedless watermelon, remove cucumber seeds if needed, and add the dressing just before serving. Serve with a slotted spoon to drain excess liquid.

Q: Can I add other fruits to this salad?
A: Yes! Strawberries, blueberries, or mango chunks add a fun twist. Just keep the total fruit amount balanced so the watermelon stays the star.

This Watermelon Salad with Feta is my summer go-to—it’s so easy to throw together and always gets rave reviews at gatherings. My favorite trick is to chill the serving bowl beforehand to keep it extra refreshing. Give it a try, and let me know in the comments how you make it your own! What’s your favorite summer salad combo?