Name: Watermelon Feta Salad: The Ultimate Summer Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6-8 servings
Ingredients: 6 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 small watermelon); 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled; ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion; ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped; 1 cup diced cucumber (about ½ large cucumber); 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon lime juice, freshly squeezed; 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option); ½ teaspoon sea salt, or to taste; ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, or to taste

Watermelon feta salad: Prepare to be amazed! This isn’t just a salad; it’s a vibrant explosion of summer flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Imagine the juicy sweetness of ripe watermelon perfectly balanced by the salty tang of feta cheese, all brought together with a refreshing minty dressing. It’s a culinary masterpiece that’s surprisingly simple to create.

While the exact origins of watermelon feta salad are debated, its roots likely lie in the Mediterranean region, where both watermelon and feta cheese are staples. This combination beautifully showcases the region’s culinary philosophy of using fresh, seasonal ingredients to create dishes that are both satisfying and healthy. Think of it as a modern twist on ancient flavors!

People adore this dish for its incredible flavor profile. The sweet and salty combination is undeniably addictive, and the contrasting textures – the crisp watermelon, the creamy feta, and the fresh mint – create a delightful sensory experience. Beyond the taste, it’s incredibly easy and quick to prepare, making it perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or a light and refreshing lunch. Plus, it’s a visually stunning dish that’s sure to impress your guests. Get ready to experience the magic of watermelon feta salad!

Ingredients:

For the Watermelon:

6 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 small watermelon)

For the Feta:

8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled

For the Red Onion:

¼ cup thinly sliced red onion

For the Mint:

¼ cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped

For the Cucumber:

1 cup diced cucumber (about ½ large cucumber)

For the Dressing:

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon lime juice, freshly squeezed
1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
½ teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, or to taste

Preparing the Watermelon and Other Ingredients

Cube the Watermelon: The first step is to prepare the star of the show – the watermelon! I like to start by cutting the watermelon in half. Then, I cut each half into 1-inch thick slices. From there, it’s easy to cut the rind off each slice and then dice the watermelon into roughly 1-inch cubes. Try to keep the cubes uniform in size for a better presentation and eating experience. Place the cubed watermelon in a large bowl.
Prepare the Cucumber: Next, let’s get the cucumber ready. I prefer to peel the cucumber, but you can leave the skin on if you like. Dice the cucumber into pieces that are similar in size to the watermelon cubes. This ensures a nice balance of flavors and textures in each bite. Add the diced cucumber to the bowl with the watermelon.
Slice the Red Onion: Red onion adds a lovely sharpness to the salad, but it can be overpowering if it’s too thick. I recommend slicing the red onion very thinly. You can use a mandoline for this if you have one, or just use a sharp knife. After slicing, I like to soak the red onion in cold water for about 10 minutes. This helps to mellow out its strong flavor and makes it less pungent. Drain the red onion well before adding it to the salad.
Chop the Mint: Fresh mint is essential for this salad! It adds a refreshing and aromatic element that complements the watermelon and feta perfectly. Roughly chop the mint leaves. You don’t want to chop them too finely, as they can bruise and lose their flavor.
Crumble the Feta: Now for the feta! I prefer to use a block of feta and crumble it myself, as it tends to have a better texture and flavor than pre-crumbled feta. Simply crumble the feta cheese over the watermelon and cucumber.

Making the Balsamic Vinaigrette

Combine the Dressing Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lime juice, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper. Make sure to whisk well until all the ingredients are fully combined and the dressing is emulsified. This will ensure that the dressing coats the salad evenly.
Taste and Adjust: Give the dressing a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a little more honey or maple syrup. If you like it more tangy, add a bit more lime juice or balsamic vinegar. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find the perfect balance of flavors for your taste.

Assembling the Watermelon Feta Salad

Gently Toss the Salad: Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over the watermelon, cucumber, feta, and red onion. Gently toss the salad to combine, being careful not to crush the watermelon. You want to coat all the ingredients evenly with the dressing.
Add the Mint: Sprinkle the chopped fresh mint leaves over the salad.
Chill (Optional): While you can serve the salad immediately, I find that it tastes even better if you chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the watermelon to become even more refreshing.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the watermelon feta salad chilled and enjoy! This salad is perfect as a light lunch, a side dish at a barbecue, or a refreshing snack on a hot day.

Tips and Variations

Here are a few tips and variations to make this watermelon feta salad even more delicious and personalized:

Add Arugula: For a peppery kick, add a handful of fresh arugula to the salad.
Grilled Watermelon: For a smoky flavor, grill the watermelon cubes before adding them to the salad. Simply brush the watermelon with a little olive oil and grill for a few minutes per side until slightly charred.
Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as basil or cilantro, in addition to or instead of mint.
Add Avocado: For a creamy texture, add diced avocado to the salad.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little heat.
Vegan Option: Use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing and substitute the feta cheese with a vegan feta alternative.
Make it Ahead: You can prepare the individual components of the salad ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Then, simply combine everything just before serving. This is a great way to save time when you’re entertaining. However, I don’t recommend dressing the salad too far in advance, as the watermelon can become soggy.
Serving Suggestions: This watermelon feta salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. It’s also a great addition to a picnic or potluck.

Choosing the Best Watermelon

Selecting a ripe and juicy watermelon is key to making this salad a success. Here are a few tips for choosing the best watermelon:

Look for a Field Spot: The field spot is the area where the watermelon rested on the ground. A ripe watermelon will have a creamy yellow or orange field spot. Avoid watermelons with a white or pale green field spot, as they are likely underripe.
Thump Test: Give the watermelon a thump. A ripe watermelon will sound hollow.
Weight: Choose a watermelon that feels heavy for its size. This indicates that it is full of juice.
Shape: Look for a watermelon that is symmetrical and free of bruises or blemishes.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover watermelon feta salad, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 2 days, but the watermelon may become a bit softer over time. I recommend draining any excess liquid before storing the salad.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this refreshing and delicious watermelon feta salad as much as I do! It’s the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of summer.

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another salad; it’s a vibrant explosion of summer flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. The sweet, juicy watermelon perfectly complements the salty, creamy feta, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that’s simply irresistible. Trust me, this watermelon feta salad is a must-try recipe that will quickly become a staple in your warm-weather repertoire.

But why is it so special? Beyond the delightful flavor combination, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and ingredients. It’s also a visually stunning dish, perfect for impressing guests at your next barbecue or potluck. Imagine the vibrant red of the watermelon, the stark white of the feta, and the fresh green of the mint – it’s a feast for the eyes as well as the palate!

And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! While the classic combination of watermelon, feta, and mint is divine, feel free to experiment with different variations to suit your preferences.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Add a Zesty Kick: A squeeze of lime juice or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate the flavors even further. The acidity cuts through the sweetness and saltiness, creating a more complex and balanced taste.
* Spice it Up: For those who like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a thinly sliced jalapeño can add a delightful kick.
* Incorporate Greens: Toss in some peppery arugula or baby spinach for added nutrients and a slightly bitter counterpoint to the sweetness of the watermelon.
* Nutty Crunch: Toasted almonds, pecans, or walnuts provide a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
* Herbaceous Delight: Experiment with different herbs like basil, cilantro, or even a touch of dill for a unique twist.
* Make it a Meal: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a more substantial and protein-packed meal. This is a fantastic option for a light and refreshing summer lunch or dinner.
* Skewered Fun: Thread watermelon, feta, and mint onto skewers for a fun and portable appetizer. Perfect for parties!

I truly believe that this watermelon feta salad is a game-changer. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and refreshing, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy side dish, a light and healthy lunch, or a show-stopping appetizer, this recipe has you covered.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, follow the simple instructions, and prepare to be amazed. I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you stick to the classic recipe, or did you experiment with any variations? What did you think of the flavor combination? Share your thoughts, photos, and any tips or tricks you discovered in the comments below. Let’s create a community of watermelon feta salad enthusiasts! Happy cooking!