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When the heat sets in and I long for something crisp and light that wakes up my palate this watermelon feta salad is my go to It manages to be sweet salty creamy and juicy all in one bite The fresh mint makes every forkful feel cooling and I bring it to summer picnics or share it with family on the deck
I first threw this together from fridge odds and ends on a scorching afternoon and now I can never have watermelon plain again
Ingredients
- Seedless watermelon cubes: Bright juicy and sweet Be sure to pick a firm melon with no cracks or mushy spots
- Feta cheese: Adds creamy briny flavor Block feta cubed or crumbled is best for freshness
- Fresh mint leaves: Delivers a cooling herbal lift Choose crisp leaves without dark spots
- Olive oil: Gives richness and helps tie the flavors together Use a fruity extra virgin type
- Fresh lime or lemon juice: Brings brightness and balances sweetness Always go for freshly squeezed and avoid bottled if possible
- Salt and black pepper: Enhances all the flavors Use flaky salt and freshly cracked pepper if you can
- Optional add ins: Red onion for mild bite arugula or baby spinach for greens balsamic glaze for a tangy finish chopped cucumber or toasted nuts for crunch Fresh basil can change things up if you have it
Step by Step Instructions
- Cube the Watermelon:
- Cut watermelon into bite sized chunks taking care to remove any stray seeds and avoiding crushing the flesh Then place cubes in a large mixing bowl
- Add Feta and Mint:
- Sprinkle crumbled feta and chopped or torn fresh mint evenly over the watermelon Use gentle hands to keep the ingredients looking neat
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl whisk together olive oil and fresh lime or lemon juice along with a good pinch of salt and black pepper Whisk until the dressing is silky and emulsified
- Toss the Salad:
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and slowly toss everything together Use a wide spatula or your hands so neither the cheese nor melon gets broken up
- Chill or Serve:
- You can serve this right away or cover and refrigerate for about fifteen to thirty minutes This makes the salad extra cold and lets the flavors mingle
- Finish and Garnish:
- Top with extra mint or a drizzle of balsamic glaze right before serving for a special touch and extra pop of flavor
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One of my fondest memories with this dish was making it for a backyard birthday when my best friend raved that it completely changed how she felt about fruit salad I always use block feta for the best creamy texture
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in a tightly covered bowl in the refrigerator for up to twenty four hours If you know you will have leftovers hold off on adding the dressing and cheese until just before serving This keeps everything fresh and prevents the salad from getting watery
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have mint try fresh basil or even flat leaf parsley Instead of feta goat cheese or ricotta salata both give that tangy creamy touch Citrus options can be flexible Both lemon and lime brighten the flavors beautifully
Serving Suggestions
Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish for a quick summer dinner It is loved at potlucks or served as a light lunch on its own Adding baby arugula or spinach turns it into a more filling meal
A Bit of Context
In Greece and much of the Mediterranean watermelon with salty cheese is a classic summer pairing The combination comes from the heat and the need for hydrating snacks that pack both taste and nutrition in every bite This salad builds on that traditional wisdom and is endlessly customizable
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute crumbled feta with another cheese?
Yes, try goat cheese or ricotta salata for a similar creamy contrast, though feta offers the classic tangy flavor.
- → What herbs complement the flavors besides mint?
Fresh basil works beautifully, either as a substitute or in addition to mint, providing a different herbal note.
- → How can I keep the salad from getting soggy?
Add feta and dressing just before serving, and use seedless watermelon to reduce excess liquid.
- → What other additions pair well with this salad?
Thinly sliced red onion, arugula, baby spinach, chopped cucumber, or toasted nuts add texture and extra layers of flavor.
- → How long can watermelon feta salad sit before serving?
It's best served immediately, but chilling for 15–30 minutes lets the flavors meld while keeping ingredients fresh.