This vibrant watermelon salad combines sweet, juicy watermelon with creamy feta, crisp cucumber, and fresh mint for a refreshing, nutrient-packed side.
Low in saturated fat and rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats from avocado, it’s perfect for quick summer lunches or light dinners.
Easy to prepare and naturally hydrating, this salad keeps your meals both satisfying and healthy.
Fresh Watermelon Feta Salad
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 small whisking bowl
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 sharp knife
- 1 serving platter or salad bowl
- Measuring Spoons
Ingredients
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- ½ clove garlic minced
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
For the Salad:
- 5 cups watermelon cubed
- 1 heaping cup English cucumber diced
- ¼ cup red onion thinly sliced
- ⅓ cup feta cheese crumbled
- 1 avocado cubed
- ⅓ cup fresh mint leaves torn (or basil as alternative)
- ½ jalapeño or serrano pepper thinly sliced (optional)
- Sea salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, 3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice, ½ minced garlic clove, and ¼ teaspoon of sea salt. Whisk thoroughly until the ingredients emulsify and form a smooth, slightly thickened dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, keeping in mind that the feta in the salad is naturally salty. Set aside.
- Cube the Watermelon: Take 5 cups of watermelon and, using a sharp knife, cut it into evenly sized cubes, roughly 1-inch in size. Aim for uniform pieces so each bite contains both sweetness and crunch. Place the cubed watermelon into a large mixing bowl to prepare for layering the other salad ingredients.
- Dice the Cucumber: Peel (if desired) and dice 1 heaping cup of English cucumber into small, bite-sized pieces. The cucumber adds a crisp, refreshing texture that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the watermelon. Add the diced cucumber to the mixing bowl with the watermelon, gently tossing to combine.
- Slice the Red Onion: Thinly slice ¼ cup of red onion into delicate, almost translucent rings. The onion adds a subtle sharpness that enhances the salad’s flavor without overpowering it. Layer the slices evenly over the watermelon and cucumber mixture.
- Prepare the Avocado: Peel and cube 1 ripe avocado into medium-sized pieces. The avocado contributes creamy texture and healthy fats, making the salad more filling and satisfying.Gently fold the avocado into the salad, taking care not to mash the pieces.
- Crumble the Feta Cheese: Measure ⅓ cup of feta cheese and crumble it evenly over the salad. Feta adds a savory, slightly tangy element that balances the sweetness of the watermelon while boosting the protein content. Ensure the crumbles are distributed throughout for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Tear ⅓ cup of fresh mint leaves into small pieces and sprinkle them over the salad. Alternatively, fresh basil can be used for a different but equally refreshing flavor. The herbs enhance aroma and add a bright, fresh note to each mouthful.
- Optional Spice Layer: If you enjoy a subtle kick, thinly slice ½ jalapeño or serrano pepper and scatter over the salad. The mild heat contrasts with the sweet watermelon and creamy feta, creating a complex flavor profile. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle half of the prepared lime and olive oil dressing over the layered ingredients. Gently toss using a large spoon or salad tongs to lightly coat all components while preserving the shape of the watermelon and avocado.
- Plate and Final Touch: Transfer the salad to a serving platter or large bowl. Sprinkle the remaining dressing evenly on top for added flavor. Taste, then season lightly with additional sea salt if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the refreshing textures and vibrant flavors at their peak.
- Storage Tip: If not serving right away, cover the salad and refrigerate for up to 2 hours. Avoid making it too far in advance, as watermelon and avocado can release excess moisture, slightly altering the texture. For meal prep, keep the dressing separate until just before serving.
Notes
- Always choose a ripe, juicy watermelon for maximum sweetness.
- Use English cucumbers for their thin skin and mild flavor; peel regular cucumbers if needed.
- Add avocado just before serving to maintain its bright green color.
- Lightly toast feta for a nutty flavor variation, if desired.
- Adjust jalapeño or serrano pepper to your preferred spice level.
- Handle delicate ingredients like watermelon and avocado gently to prevent mushiness.
- Chill watermelon and cucumber beforehand for a more refreshing salad.
Chef’s Secrets For Perfect Flavor
The key to an unforgettable watermelon salad is balancing sweetness, saltiness, and freshness.
Always use freshly squeezed lime juice rather than bottled for a bright, tangy lift.
Tearing mint leaves instead of chopping preserves their aroma and avoids bitterness.
When tossing, handle delicate ingredients like avocado and watermelon gently to prevent mushiness.
Finally, chilling the watermelon and cucumber beforehand enhances the salad’s refreshing quality on hot summer days.
Serving Suggestions For Maximum Enjoyment
This watermelon salad shines as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp for a complete summer meal.
It also pairs beautifully with light sandwiches or wraps, making it ideal for picnics.
For brunch or buffet-style meals, serve it in a shallow, wide bowl so the colorful layers are visible.
Garnish with extra mint leaves or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for added crunch and visual appeal.
Storage Tips To Preserve Freshness
For optimal freshness, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2–3 hours.
Keep the dressing separate if you plan to make the salad ahead of time; this prevents the watermelon from becoming watery and the avocado from browning.
Avoid freezing, as the high water content in watermelon and cucumber will create an undesirable texture when thawed.
Always add avocado and dressing just before serving for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this salad ahead?
Yes, you can prepare the watermelon, cucumber, and dressing in advance, but add avocado and toss with dressing just before serving. This ensures the ingredients remain fresh and visually appealing.
2. What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you prefer a dairy-free option, use crumbled firm tofu or vegan feta. Goat cheese also works for a tangy, creamy alternative.
3. Is it okay to use regular cucumbers?
Yes, but peel them to remove the thicker skin and reduce bitterness. English cucumbers are preferred because they are tender and seedless.
4. Can I make this salad spicier?
Absolutely! Adjust the jalapeño or serrano pepper quantity to your taste. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
5. How do I keep avocado from browning?
Toss avocado with a small squeeze of lime juice immediately after cutting. Additionally, add avocado just before serving to maintain its bright color and creamy texture.
