Watermelon Feta Cucumber Mint

This watermelon salad brings together juicy watermelon cubes crispy cucumber fresh mint and creamy feta with a splash of simple lime dressing. It is my favorite for hot days because it tastes so refreshing and always disappears instantly at summer gatherings.

I first made this for a neighbors barbecue and everyone asked for the recipe by the end of the night. The combination surprised me by how well the savory feta and sweet watermelon work together.

Ingredients

• Watermelon cubes or balls: This is the star of the salad choose very ripe seedless watermelon if possible for the best sweetness and texture
• Cucumber: Use either an English or Persian cucumber for tender skin and tiny seeds or peel and deseed a standard cucumber for crisp bites
• Fresh mint: Sliced thin or use small leaves Mint adds a cooling pop that really lifts every bite
• Feta cheese: Crumbled Block-style feta has a creamier texture and more flavor than pre-crumbled look for Greek feta if you can
• Olive oil: Use the best quality you can find A good olive oil gives body and helps tie all the flavors together
• Lime juice: Freshly squeezed gives a zingy punch that brightens the whole salad
• Salt and pepper: Brings out all the flavors in the fruit and cheese Use flaky sea salt if you have it

Instructions

Prep The Main Ingredients:

Cut the watermelon into bite-size cubes or scoop into balls for a fun look Slice the cucumber thinly and remove the seeds if they are large Tear or thinly slice fresh mint leaves so they distribute evenly

Mix The Dressing:

In a small bowl whisk together the olive oil lime juice salt and pepper until combined This quick dressing will coat every piece with flavor

Assemble The Salad:

Add the watermelon cucumber and mint to a large mixing bowl Drizzle the dressing over the top and gently toss with clean hands or a wide spoon Take care not to crush the watermelon too much

Add The Cheese:

Right before serving sprinkle crumbled feta over the salad This keeps the feta from dissolving and preserves its creamy texture Mix lightly if needed to distribute the cheese

My favorite part of this dish is the freshness from the mint Every time I pick fresh mint from my own backyard garden and use it in this salad the flavor is even more vibrant and the smell brings back memories of childhood summers

Storage Tips

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day but it tastes best within a few hours after assembling because the fruit will start to release its juices and the feta can get a little soft If you want to make it ahead prep and store all the components separately then combine and dress just before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

No fresh mint Try fresh basil leaves sliced thin for a different herb twist If you do not have feta crumbled goat cheese or queso fresco works too For extra crunch add a handful of toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds

Serving Suggestions

This salad is wonderful as a light lunch or a side for grilled chicken seafood or kebabs At picnics I like to serve it in small cups for easy eating You can even pile it onto toasted sourdough or pair with crispy pita chips for an appetizer

Cultural Context

Watermelon salads with feta and herbs have roots in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine where sweet and salty flavors are paired often Watermelon and feta together is a classic Greek combination that takes full advantage of the abundant summer produce and salty cheeses of the region

Toss everything gently before serving and enjoy right away for best taste and texture. This fresh salad is sure to brighten any meal.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What type of cucumber works best?

English or Persian cucumbers have thin skins and small seeds, providing crisp bites without bitterness. Standard cucumbers can be used if peeled and seeds are removed.

→ Can this dish be made in advance?

Prepare the ingredients ahead and combine them just before serving for the freshest taste and texture. Assembled salad is best enjoyed within a few hours.

→ Is fresh mint necessary for this dish?

Fresh mint offers the brightest flavor and aroma. If unavailable, fresh basil can be substituted for a unique herbal note.

→ How should feta be added for best results?

Use block feta and crumble it over the dish right before serving. This keeps the texture creamy and enhances flavor without dissolving.

→ What dressing is recommended?

A simple mix of olive oil and fresh lime juice, seasoned with flaky salt and black pepper, ties the sweet and savory elements together beautifully.

→ What are some tasty additions?

Try sliced red onion, arugula, or a handful of toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds for extra crunch and flavor variety.