This refreshing watermelon salad is a perfect summer treat! With juicy chunks of watermelon, creamy feta cheese, and fragrant fresh mint, it’s both colorful and tasty.
I love how the sweet watermelon balances with the salty feta. It’s like a little party in your mouth! Plus, it takes just a few minutes to throw together—perfect for hot days! 🍉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Seedless watermelon is perfect for this salad because it’s sweet and juicy. If watermelon is out of season or unavailable, you could use cantaloupe or honeydew as substitutes, but the flavor will be different.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a salty and creamy element to the dish. If you want a lighter option, try cottage cheese, or for a vegan alternative, use crumbled tofu mixed with a bit of nutritional yeast and lemon juice.
Fresh Mint: Fresh mint adds a bright and refreshing flavor. If you’re not a fan of mint, try using fresh basil or parsley instead for a different twist on the salad.
Lemon Zest: This is optional, but it adds a wonderful citrus aroma. You can substitute it with lime zest or skip it altogether if you prefer.
How Do You Ensure the Perfect Salad Texture?
When preparing this salad, maintaining the right texture is key. Here are some tips:
- Choose ripe watermelon, as it should be firm but easily cut into cubes. A dull thump when you knock on it is a good sign that it’s ripe.
- Cut the watermelon just before you serve. This keeps it from becoming mushy.
- Be gentle when tossing the salad. You want to mix the ingredients without crushing the watermelon pieces.
These simple steps will help you create a beautiful salad that’s just as delightful to eat as it is to look at!
Easy Watermelon Salad with Feta and Fresh Mint
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 cups seedless watermelon, cut into cubes
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest (optional, for garnish)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (optional, for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing watermelon salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick dish that doesn’t require cooking—just some chopping and tossing. If you want the flavors to meld, you can chill it in the refrigerator for up to 1 hour. Perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Watermelon and Feta:
In a large bowl, add the cubed watermelon and crumbled feta cheese. The sweet watermelon and salty feta create a delicious flavor combination right from the start!
2. Add Fresh Mint:
Next, sprinkle in the thinly sliced fresh mint leaves. Use a gentle tossing motion to mix it all together without breaking apart the watermelon cubes. You want to keep the salad looking fresh and vibrant!
3. Zesty Touch:
If you like, sprinkle the fresh lemon zest over the top for that extra burst of citrus freshness. This step is optional, but it really enhances the flavor.
4. Seasoning:
Season your salad with freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you enjoy a little heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes as well. This will give your salad a nice kick!
5. Drizzle with Olive Oil:
If you want to add a touch of richness, drizzle a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over the salad. This adds a lovely texture and flavor depth.
6. Serve or Chill:
Your salad is ready to serve right away, or if you prefer, you can cover it and chill in the refrigerator for up to 1 hour. This helps the flavors blend beautifully together.
7. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy this refreshing, vibrant watermelon salad as a light side dish or a starter on a warm day! It’s perfect for picnics and BBQs!
Can I Use Different Types of Melon?
Absolutely! While watermelon is the star of this salad, you can substitute it with cantaloupe or honeydew. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly—cantaloupe provides a sweeter taste, while honeydew is milder and very juicy.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad up to an hour ahead of time. However, it’s best to add the feta and mint just before serving to maintain their freshness. If making earlier, keep the watermelon chilled in the refrigerator and toss in the other ingredients right before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the watermelon may release some juice, so it’s best to eat the salad fresh for the best texture and flavor!
Can I Use Dried Mint Instead of Fresh?
While fresh mint is recommended for its vibrant flavor and aroma, you can use dried mint in a pinch. Just use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated. Keep in mind that the texture will be different, and fresh mint really elevates this salad!
