Feta Watermelon Salad

Feta Watermelon Salad is a refreshing summer dish that combines sweet, juicy watermelon with salty feta cheese, crisp cucumbers, and a tangy lime dressing. It’s light, vibrant, and perfect for warm weather meals, cookouts, or as a colorful appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet and savory balance: Watermelon’s natural sweetness is perfectly offset by salty feta
• Cool and crisp: Ideal for hot days, this salad is hydrating and satisfying
• Minimal prep: Just chop and mix—ready in minutes
• Eye-catching presentation: A beautiful dish that adds color to any table
• Customizable: Easily adapted with herbs, onions, or a touch of spice

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Seedless watermelon, cubed or balled
• Feta cheese, crumbled or cubed
• English cucumber, sliced or chopped
• Fresh mint or basil leaves, chopped
• Red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• Fresh lime juice
• Olive oil
• Salt and black pepper
• Optional: balsamic glaze or chili flakes for garnish

directions

this recipe

1. Prep ingredients: Cube the watermelon and cucumber, crumble the feta, and chop the herbs.
2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, gently toss watermelon, cucumber, red onion (if using), and herbs.
4. Add feta: Sprinkle the crumbled feta over the top and gently fold it in.
5. Drizzle with dressing: Pour the lime dressing over the salad and toss lightly to combine.
6. Serve immediately: Garnish with extra mint or a drizzle of balsamic glaze, if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep time: 10–15 minutes
• Cook time: None
• Total time: 10–15 minutes

Variations

• Herb swap: Try basil or cilantro instead of mint
• Spicy kick: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or diced jalapeño
• Avocado addition: Mix in chunks of ripe avocado for extra creaminess
• Grain version: Toss with cooked quinoa or couscous to make it more filling
• Vegan version: Use vegan feta cheese or omit cheese entirely

storage/reheating

• Storage: Best eaten fresh, but can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 day
• Avoid sogginess: Store dressing separately if preparing in advance
• Reheating: Not applicable—this is a chilled dish

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients and store them separately, assembling just before serving.

What kind of watermelon works best?

Seedless watermelon is easiest to work with and gives the best texture.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled will work in a pinch.

Is there a substitute for feta cheese?

Try goat cheese, cotija, or a vegan feta alternative.

What herbs work best?

Fresh mint adds a cool note, but basil or parsley also pair well.

Can I use other types of cucumbers?

Yes—Persian or regular cucumbers work. If using regular, peel and de-seed them for best texture.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free.

How can I make it more filling?

Add cooked grains like quinoa or toss in chickpeas or white beans.

Can I use lemon instead of lime?

Yes—lemon gives a brighter tang and pairs well with the ingredients.

Will the feta melt or break down?

No, feta holds up well in the salad, especially if added right before serving.

Conclusion

Feta Watermelon Salad is a refreshing and flavorful summer staple that’s incredibly easy to make and sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard BBQ, picnic, or just need a cool side dish, this sweet and savory combo is a must-try seasonal favorite.

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