Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this salad for its vibrant flavor and effortless preparation. The sweetness of the watermelon balances beautifully with the saltiness of feta and the cool freshness of mint. It’s a crowd-pleaser that looks gorgeous on the table, requires no cooking, and comes together in minutes. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a side dish, appetizer, or even a light main course.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fresh watermelon, cubed
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh mint leaves, chopped or torn
- Red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- Fresh lime or lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper
Directions
- Cut the watermelon into bite-sized cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the crumbled feta cheese and chopped mint leaves.
- If using, add thinly sliced red onion for an extra layer of flavor.
- Drizzle with olive oil and freshly squeezed lime or lemon juice.
- Gently toss the salad to combine, being careful not to mash the watermelon.
- Season lightly with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately or chill for 15–20 minutes before serving for an extra refreshing bite.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Balsamic Twist: Drizzle with balsamic glaze or reduction for a sweet and tangy finish.
- Add Cucumber: Mix in sliced cucumber for extra crunch and freshness.
- Herb Mix: Add fresh basil or arugula for a peppery, aromatic touch.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle with a pinch of chili flakes or drizzle with chili oil for subtle heat.
- Avocado Addition: Add diced avocado for creaminess and richness.
Storage/Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed fresh. If storing, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. To prevent the feta from becoming soggy, store the cheese and dressing separately and combine just before serving. Do not freeze this salad, as watermelon loses its texture when thawed.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead but assemble just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.
What type of feta works best?
Block feta made from sheep’s milk has the best flavor and texture. Crumble it yourself for the freshest taste.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, goat cheese or ricotta salata also work well for a similar tangy-salty contrast.
Should the watermelon be cold or room temperature?
Cold watermelon gives the salad a more refreshing, crisp taste—perfect for hot days.
Can I skip the mint?
You can, but the mint adds a signature freshness that makes the dish pop. Try basil as a substitute.
Is there a vegan option?
Yes, use a vegan feta substitute or omit the cheese entirely and add olives for saltiness.
What can I serve this with?
It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or Mediterranean-style dishes.
Can I add nuts for crunch?
Yes, toasted almonds, pistachios, or walnuts make great additions for extra texture.
How do I choose a ripe watermelon?
Look for one with a creamy yellow field spot, a hollow sound when tapped, and heavy for its size.
How long can it sit out?
It can sit out for up to 1 hour at room temperature. If serving outdoors, keep it chilled until ready to serve.
Conclusion
Watermelon Salad with Feta & Mint is the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and refreshing flavors. It’s simple to make, stunning to serve, and always a hit during warm weather. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a light, healthy meal, this salad delivers a burst of freshness in every bite.
PrintWatermelon Salad with Feta & Mint
A refreshing summer salad made with juicy watermelon, salty feta, and fresh mint, lightly dressed with olive oil and lime juice for a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh watermelon, cubed
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped or torn
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime or lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cut the watermelon into bite-sized cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the crumbled feta cheese and chopped mint leaves.
- If using, add thinly sliced red onion for an extra layer of flavor.
- Drizzle with olive oil and freshly squeezed lime or lemon juice.
- Gently toss to combine, being careful not to crush the watermelon.
- Season lightly with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately or chill for 15–20 minutes before serving for extra refreshment.
Notes
- Use cold watermelon for the most refreshing flavor.
- Store components separately if making ahead to avoid sogginess.
- For extra flavor, drizzle with balsamic glaze or add cucumber slices.
- Vegan version: use dairy-free feta or omit cheese and add olives.
- Best enjoyed within a few hours of preparation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
