This refreshing watermelon, cucumber, and feta salad is perfect for warm days! The sweet watermelon and crunchy cucumber pair beautifully with salty feta, creating a tasty mix.
Who knew such simple ingredients could bring so much joy? I love to enjoy this salad at picnics or BBQs—it’s like a little celebration on my plate! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: This fruit is the star of the salad. Pick a ripe, sweet watermelon for the best flavor. If watermelon isn’t available, try cantaloupe or honeydew for a similar freshness.
Cucumber: I love using English cucumbers because they are crisp and have fewer seeds. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work too! Just peel them to remove the bitter skin if you prefer.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds that creamy tanginess to the salad. If you’re looking for a lactose-free option, try using tofu feta or omit cheese completely for a lighter dish.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint brings a lovely aroma and taste. If you’re out of fresh mint, you can substitute with fresh basil, though it will change the overall flavor a bit.
Olive Oil & Lemon Juice: The dressing enhances the salad’s freshness. Instead of olive oil, you could use avocado oil, and for a citrus twist, lime juice can replace lemon juice.
How to Prepare the Perfect Salad Without Crushing the Ingredients?
When making this salad, it’s important to handle the ingredients gently to keep them fresh and crisp. Here’s how:
- Start by cubing the watermelon and slicing the cucumber carefully. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.
- Combine the watermelon and cucumber first in a bowl, then add feta and mint on top to avoid breaking them apart.
- Whisk the dressing ingredients together separately. This helps blend the flavors before adding it to the salad.
- When mixing everything, use a light hand! Gently toss the salad to keep everything intact and refreshing.
Chilling the salad before serving is a great tip—it enhances the overall taste and makes it extra refreshing!
How to Make Simple Watermelon + Cucumber + Feta Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups watermelon, cubed
- 2 cups cucumber, sliced
- 1 cup feta cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You can either serve it right away or chill it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes for an extra refreshing flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Fresh Ingredients:
In a large bowl, start by adding the cubed watermelon and sliced cucumber. These two ingredients are the stars of your salad, bringing in a nice mix of sweetness and crunch!
2. Add the Feta Cheese:
Next, gently fold in the cubed feta cheese to the bowl. This will add a creamy and salty flavor that balances well with the sweetness of the watermelon.
3. Sprinkle the Mint:
Take your freshly chopped mint leaves and sprinkle them over the top of the salad. Mint adds a refreshing touch that will elevate the entire dish!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined. This simple dressing will bring all the ingredients together.
5. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad. Be gentle as you toss it all together, making sure not to crush the watermelon or feta. You want everything evenly coated!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
You can serve your salad immediately for a fresh crunch. If you’d like it chilled, pop it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. Either way, enjoy this delightful salad!
Can I Substitute Other Cheeses for Feta?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of feta, try using goat cheese or mozzarella for a milder flavor. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the salad’s overall taste and creaminess.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
To store leftovers, keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the watermelon can become mushy, so it’s best to eat it fresh. If you plan to have leftovers, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Of course! Feel free to add diced avocados, red onions, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for some heat. These additions can enhance the flavor and make the salad even more filling.
What’s the Best Way to Cut Watermelon and Cucumber?
To cut the watermelon, start by slicing it in half, then cut each half into strips and finally into cubes. For the cucumber, slice it in half lengthwise before cutting it into half-moon shapes or rounds, depending on your preference. This makes for easier handling and uniform pieces!
