There’s no better way to cool off on a hot day than with a refreshing watermelon feta salad. This light, colorful summer salad combines juicy watermelon, creamy feta cheese, and crisp fresh mint for the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.
With simple ingredients and just a few minutes of prep, this watermelon salad with feta is the ideal side dish for barbecues, potlucks, or quick weekday meals. The combination of seedless watermelon, herbs, and cheese creates a bright, satisfying bite that feels both elegant and effortless.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
You only need a few simple, fresh ingredients to make this watermelon feta salad. Use quality produce for the best flavor and texture. Both fresh or seedless watermelon and creamy feta cheese make this recipe stand out.
Main Ingredients
• 4 cups cubed watermelon – Look for a seedless watermelon, chilled, and cut into bite-size cubes
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese – Use a block of feta and crumble it yourself for creamier texture
• ½ cup cucumber, sliced and quartered – Adds crispness and extra freshness
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion – Optional, but adds sharp contrast and crunch
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped – For a bright, cooling flavor
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped – Balances sweetness with herbal notes
Simple Dressing
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – A light drizzle brings everything together
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice or lime juice – Adds acidity and brightens the salad
• Salt and pepper to taste – Use kosher salt for the best seasoning
• Optional: A drizzle of balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar for added richness
This combination of sweet watermelon, salty feta cheese, and herbs creates the perfect balance for a light, satisfying salad. Adjust the herbs or toppings to your liking, and feel free to double the recipe for larger gatherings.
Instructions
This watermelon feta salad comes together in minutes with just a few easy steps. It’s the perfect recipe for busy days, summer gatherings, or when you need a simple, refreshing side.
Step 1: Prep the Watermelon
Start by cutting the seedless watermelon into small, bite-sized cubes of watermelon. Place them in a large mixing bowl. Chilling the cubed watermelon beforehand adds extra crispness and keeps the salad cool.
Step 2: Slice the Veggies and Herbs
Thinly slice the cucumber and red onion, then chop the fresh mint and basil. The combination of herbs adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the juicy watermelon.
Step 3: Make the Salad
Combine the watermelon cubes, cucumber, and red onion in the bowl. Gently toss with the chopped herbs. Be careful not to crush the crisp watermelon, keeping the texture light and juicy.
Step 4: Add the Dressing
Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad with the dressing. Season with kosher salt and a little pepper to taste. Toss lightly to coat everything without breaking apart the fruit.
Step 5: Top with Feta
Top with the feta, sprinkling crumbled feta or small chunks from a block of feta evenly over the salad. The salty feta cheese pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the watermelon.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Optionally, add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor. Serve immediately or refrigerate for a few minutes to chill. This simple salad is best enjoyed fresh for the ultimate crisp, sweet and salty bite.
Enjoy your watermelon and feta salad as a light lunch, a perfect summer side dish, or a refreshing appetizer.
Pro Tips and Variations
This watermelon feta salad is easy to make, but with a few extra tips, you can elevate the flavor, texture, and presentation for the perfect summer side.
Pro Tips for the Best Salad
• Chill the watermelon: Use cold, cubed watermelon for maximum crispness and refreshing flavor, especially on hot summer days.
• Use block feta for better texture: Crumble a block of feta yourself instead of pre-crumbled cheese. It’s creamier and pairs beautifully with the juicy watermelon.
• Balance the seasoning: A sprinkle of kosher salt enhances the natural sweetness and highlights the classic sweet and salty flavors of this salad.
• Serve immediately: The salad is best enjoyed right after tossing, as the juicy watermelon releases moisture over time.
• Go easy on tossing: When mixing, be gentle to keep the cubes of watermelon intact and avoid crushing the soft feta.
Simple Variations to Try
• Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad: Add extra cucumber for more crunch and refreshing bite.
• Add Arugula: Toss in a handful of arugula to create a peppery, leafy base for more of a melon salad feel.
• Basil Twist: Use a little more fresh basil alongside mint for an extra layer of herbal flavor.
• Balsamic Glaze Finish: A light drizzle of balsamic glaze or white balsamic adds tangy richness to the salad.
• Citrus Boost: Swap lemon juice for lime juice for extra brightness and tropical flair.
• Make it a Party Platter: Serve with extra crumbles of creamy feta, fresh herbs, and a side of crusty bread for an easy, elegant appetizer.
Serving Suggestions
This watermelon feta salad is light, refreshing, and fits effortlessly into any summer meal. The combination of juicy watermelon, creamy feta, and herbs makes it ideal for barbecues, picnics, or quick weekday sides.
Best Ways to Serve
• As a Summer Side Dish: Pair with grilled chicken, seafood, or burgers. The cool, crisp watermelon complements savory mains perfectly.
• At Picnics or Potlucks: This perfect summer side dish travels well. Assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh and avoid excess moisture from the sweet watermelon.
• With Appetizers: Serve small portions of watermelon and feta salad in cups or bowls as a refreshing starter. It’s a great way to impress guests at gatherings.
• As a Light Lunch: Enjoy a larger portion of the salad with crusty bread or add arugula for more greens, turning it into a satisfying meal.
Storage Tips
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. The juicy watermelon releases moisture, so the salad is best enjoyed fresh.
• If prepping ahead, keep ingredients separate and combine the watermelon with the other components just before serving.
Watermelon Feta Salad
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups cubed seedless watermelon chilled for best texture
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese preferably from a block of feta
- ½ cup cucumber sliced and quartered
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion optional, adds extra crunch
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or lime juice
- kosher salt and pepper to taste
- balsamic glaze optional, for drizzling
Instructions
- Cut the seedless watermelon into small, bite-sized cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Slice the cucumber, red onion, and chop the fresh mint and basil.
- Combine the watermelon, cucumber, red onion, and herbs in the bowl. Toss gently to mix without crushing the fruit.
- Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad. Season with kosher salt and pepper to taste. Toss lightly to coat.
- Top with the crumbled feta cheese and a drizzle of balsamic glaze if using. Serve immediately.
Notes
Conclusion
This refreshing watermelon feta salad is everything you want in a quick, summer-friendly recipe. It’s crisp, juicy, and perfectly balances the sweetness of the watermelon with the creamy, salty bite of feta cheese. The herbs add a fresh finish, while the simple dressing ties it all together without overpowering the natural flavors.
Whether you’re planning a barbecue, a picnic, or need a perfect summer side dish, this salad recipe is ready in minutes and always impresses. It works for casual meals, elegant spreads, or anytime you want a bright, flavorful bite on a warm day.
FAQs
What dressing goes on watermelon feta salad?
A simple dressing works best for this salad. A drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon juice or lime juice, and a pinch of kosher salt bring out the natural sweetness of the watermelon and balance the flavors. For extra richness, try adding a light drizzle of balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar.
Why do people eat watermelon with feta?
The combination of sweet and salty flavors makes this pairing irresistible. The sweetness of the watermelon contrasts perfectly with the creamy, salty feta cheese, creating a refreshing bite that feels light but satisfying. It’s a popular mix for summer because it’s hydrating, flavorful, and unique.
How to season watermelon salad?
To season this salad, use kosher salt to enhance the natural sweetness, along with olive oil and lemon juice for brightness. You can also add fresh mint, basil, or a splash of lime dressing for extra layers of flavor. Keep the seasoning light so the fruit remains the star.
How to cut feta for a salad?
The best way is to use a block of feta and crumble it by hand or with a fork into small pieces. Crumbled feta blends easily without overpowering the salad, while small chunks add a creamy texture. Avoid pre-crumbled feta if possible, as it tends to be drier. Always top with the feta after tossing the other ingredients to keep it intact.
