This Easy Fresh Watermelon Feta Salad is a refreshing blend of sweet watermelon and salty feta cheese, perfect for warm days. Add a sprinkle of mint for a touch of flavor!
You’ll love how simple it is to make. I can whip it up in minutes and it always impresses my friends. Plus, it’s a great way to stay cool and enjoy summer vibes! 🍉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Fresh, seedless watermelon gives the best taste and texture. If you can’t find it, honeydew melon can be a sweet substitute.
Cucumber: I prefer English cucumbers for their crispness and thin skin. Regular cucumbers work too, but peel them for a milder taste.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta is essential for that salty kick. If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, try tofu feta or vegan cream cheese for a similar texture and taste.
Mint and Basil: Fresh herbs elevate this dish. If you don’t have basil, I recommend using more mint or even parsley for a different flavor.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the salad. Lemon juice can also work in a pinch, giving it a slightly different tang.
How Do You Toss Salad Without Mushing the Watermelon?
Great question! When mixing your salad, you want to be gentle. Here are some tips:
- Use a large mixing bowl to give ingredients space.
- Start with the watermelon and cucumber, and add the cheese and herbs on top.
- Instead of stirring, use a folding motion to combine—think of lifting and turning rather than stirring.
This way, you keep those beautiful watermelon cubes intact, making for a lovely presentation!
Easy Fresh Watermelon Feta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups seedless watermelon, cut into cubes
- 2 cups cucumber, peeled and cut into cubes
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or whole small leaves for garnish
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
- Salt, to taste (optional, as feta is salty)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to throw together, and you can chill it for 15-20 minutes if you want it cold. Perfect for any meal or as a light snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
Start by placing the cubed watermelon and cucumber in a large mixing bowl. These two ingredients form the base of your salad and create a delightful blend of textures—sweet and crunchy!
2. Add the Feta:
Next, crumble the feta cheese over the mixture. The feta adds a savory, salty contrast to the sweetness of the watermelon, making every bite delicious.
3. Add Fresh Herbs:
Scatter the chopped mint and basil leaves into the bowl, saving a few whole leaves for garnish at the end. These fresh herbs will brighten up the salad and enhance its flavors.
4. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and squeeze the juice of one lime over the ingredients in the bowl. This will help to carry all the flavors and add a zesty freshness.
5. Toss Gently:
With a gentle touch, toss all the ingredients together. Use a folding motion rather than stirring to avoid mashing the watermelon. You want everything well mixed but still beautifully intact.
6. Season and Transfer:
Lightly season your salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember that the feta will contribute some saltiness, so go easy on the salt if you want! Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or platter.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish with the reserved mint and basil leaves. If you have time, chill the salad in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes so it’s nice and refreshing when served. Enjoy your easy, fresh watermelon feta salad!
This salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a refreshing side dish on hot days. Enjoy the season with every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Melons in This Salad?
Absolutely! While watermelon is the star of this salad, you can substitute it with honeydew or cantaloupe for a sweet twist. Just make sure the melon is ripe for the best flavor!
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours ahead of time. Just keep it covered in the fridge. To maintain the best texture, add the feta and herbs right before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may release some water, so give it a gentle stir before serving again.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add ingredients like red onion, olives, or avocado for extra flavor and texture. Just remember to adjust the seasoning if you’re adding salty components like olives.
