This refreshing salad combines juicy watermelon, crisp cucumber, and creamy feta cheese. It’s like a summer party in a bowl, perfect for hot days or BBQs!
Plus, it only takes moments to whip up, which gives you more time to relax. I love to sprinkle some mint on top for an extra burst of flavor. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Choose a ripe watermelon for the best sweetness. Seedless watermelon is ideal here, but if you have one with seeds, just remove them. You can also swap watermelon for cantaloupe for a different flavor.
Cucumber: I love using English cucumbers for their crisp texture and fewer seeds. Regular cucumbers work too! If cucumbers aren’t available, zucchini cut into cubes can be a fun alternative.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds that tangy touch. If you’re looking for a vegan option, try crumbled tofu seasoned with lemon juice. Goat cheese can also be a delicious substitute if you don’t mind the flavor swap.
Mint: Fresh mint enhances the salad greatly. If you can’t find fresh mint, try basil for a unique twist. Dried mint works as a last resort, just use about 1 teaspoon to avoid overpowering the salad.
How Can You Make the Perfect Toss Without Crushing the Feta?
Tossing a salad with feta requires some care. You want to combine the flavors without making feta mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by adding the watermelon and cucumber to the bowl, then sprinkle the feta on top.
- Use a large spoon or spatula to gently lift the ingredients from the bottom and fold them together instead of stirring aggressively.
- You can toss the mint in towards the end for a light mix that keeps it fresh.
This way, you maintain the nice shape of the feta cubes and get all those flavors blended successfully!
Easy Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad
Ingredients
- 4 cups watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large cucumber, sliced or cut into chunks
- 1 cup feta cheese, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Time Estimate
This salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. No cooking is required, making it a quick and easy dish that you can whip up in no time. If you prefer to let it chill in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes before serving, that’s optional but highly recommended for a refreshing treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Combine the Base Ingredients
In a large bowl, start by adding the watermelon cubes, cucumber chunks, and feta cheese cubes. These three ingredients create the main base of your salad, offering a delicious mix of sweet and savory flavors.
2. Add Fresh Mint
Next, sprinkle the finely chopped fresh mint over the top of the combined ingredients. The mint will add a lovely aromatic touch and enhance the refreshing qualities of the salad.
3. Drizzle with Olive Oil and Lime Juice
Now, drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil over the salad. If you’re using lime juice, go ahead and add that too. It gives the salad a zesty kick and complements the watermelon beautifully.
4. Toss the Salad
Gently toss everything together with a large spoon or spatula. Be careful to mix it without breaking the feta too much—this will keep the salad looking beautiful and preserve some texture!
5. Season it Up
Finally, season your salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it another light toss to distribute the seasoning evenly.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Easy Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad is now ready to serve! You can enjoy it right away or let it chill in the fridge for a refreshing treat. This salad is perfect as a side dish or a healthy snack—refreshing and delightful!
Dig in and enjoy this light, crisp, and sweet-savory salad that adds a vibrant touch to any meal or gathering! Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad in advance! However, to keep the ingredients fresh, it’s best to mix everything but the cucumber and mint, then add them just before serving. You can store the pre-mixed watermelon and feta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The watermelon and cucumber may release some water, so give it a gentle toss before enjoying it again!
Can I Substitute Any Ingredients?
Absolutely! If you’re missing an ingredient, here are some great alternatives: instead of watermelon, you could use cantaloupe; replace feta with goat cheese or avocado for a different twist; and swap mint for fresh basil if you prefer. The salad will still be delicious!
Is This Salad Vegan-Friendly?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with crumbled tofu seasoned with lemon juice or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also enhance flavors with extra herbs and a squeeze of lime or lemon juice.
