This Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint is a refreshing, light, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for hot summer days or as a vibrant side for any meal. The sweet, juicy watermelon pairs beautifully with the salty feta cheese and the aromatic mint, creating a delicious balance of flavors. A drizzle of olive oil and fresh lime or lemon juice adds the perfect finishing touch, making this salad a crowd-pleasing favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Watermelon Feta Salad is the perfect combination of sweet and savory. The freshness of the watermelon combined with the creamy, tangy feta cheese and aromatic mint creates an irresistible flavor profile. It’s a quick and easy recipe with minimal ingredients, yet it’s packed with refreshing taste. Whether you’re serving it as a light side dish, a summer BBQ addition, or just a snack, this salad is guaranteed to be a hit.

Ingredients

Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint

  • 4 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
  • ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese (or cubed block feta)
  • ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, torn or chopped
  • 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime or lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-ins:

  • ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
  • ½ cup arugula or baby spinach
  • Balsamic glaze drizzle
  • Chopped cucumber
  • Toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds
  • Fresh basil leaves (as a substitute or addition to mint)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Watermelon: Cube the seedless watermelon into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Add the Feta and Mint: Crumble the feta cheese (or cut it into small cubes if using block feta) and add it to the watermelon. Tear or chop the fresh mint leaves and sprinkle them over the top.
  3. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the olive oil and lime or lemon juice over the watermelon mixture. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Gently toss everything together to combine.
  4. Optional Add-ins: If you’re using any optional add-ins like red onion, arugula, cucumber, or toasted nuts, add them now and give the salad another gentle toss.
  5. Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and drizzle with a balsamic glaze if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4-6
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Watermelon Salad: Add a dash of chili powder, cayenne pepper, or a few slices of jalapeño for a spicy kick.
  • Vegan Version: Use a plant-based feta cheese alternative for a vegan-friendly version of this salad.
  • Fruit Mix: Add other fresh fruits like berries, orange slices, or mango for a fruit salad twist.
  • Nut-Free Version: Skip the nuts if you’re looking for a nut-free recipe or have allergies.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the salad is best enjoyed fresh as the watermelon can release juice and become soggy over time.
  • Refrigerating: If making ahead, store the dressing separately and add just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of watermelon?

Yes, you can use any type of seedless watermelon for this recipe. Personal preferences for the sweetness and texture of the melon may vary, but seedless varieties work best for easy preparation.

2. Can I use block feta instead of crumbled feta?

Yes, you can use block feta and cut it into small cubes if you prefer. The texture is slightly firmer, but it will work just as well in the salad.

3. Can I substitute mint with another herb?

Yes! You can substitute mint with fresh basil, cilantro, or even dill for a slightly different flavor profile.

4. Can I add more vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add cucumber, bell peppers, or even cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and color.

5. Can I use a different vinegar instead of balsamic glaze?

Yes, you can use red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or white wine vinegar for a slightly different flavor. If you don’t have balsamic glaze, simply drizzle balsamic vinegar and a bit of honey to create a sweet glaze.

6. How can I make the salad spicier?

To add heat, sprinkle some chili flakes or cayenne pepper on top. You could also add fresh chili slices or a pinch of smoked paprika for added spice.

7. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and keep them separate. Combine everything just before serving for the best taste and texture.

8. Can I use other cheeses besides feta?

Yes, you can try goat cheese, ricotta, or even a crumbly blue cheese if you prefer a different flavor.

9. Can I make this salad sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter salad, drizzle a little honey or agave syrup over the top, or add fruit like orange slices or strawberries for extra sweetness.

10. What can I serve this salad with?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or even as a light, refreshing dish on its own.

Conclusion

This Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint is a vibrant, refreshing dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or light lunches. With just a few ingredients, you get a burst of flavors—from the sweet watermelon and tangy feta to the fresh mint and zesty lime or lemon juice. Customize it with optional add-ins like arugula, nuts, or red onions to make it your own. Simple, delicious, and full of refreshing ingredients, this salad is sure to be a favorite at any table!

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Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint

Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint


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  • Author: Chef MARTHA
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings

Description

A refreshing and vibrant Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint, combining sweet watermelon, tangy feta cheese, and aromatic mint, dressed with olive oil and lime or lemon juice.


Ingredients

  • 4 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
  • ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese (or cubed block feta)
  • ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, torn or chopped
  • 12 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime or lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional Add-ins:
  • ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
  • ½ cup arugula or baby spinach
  • Balsamic glaze drizzle
  • Chopped cucumber
  • Toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds
  • Fresh basil leaves (as a substitute or addition to mint)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Watermelon: Cube the seedless watermelon into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Add the Feta and Mint: Crumble the feta cheese (or cut it into small cubes if using block feta) and add it to the watermelon. Tear or chop the fresh mint leaves and sprinkle them over the top.
  3. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the olive oil and lime or lemon juice over the watermelon mixture. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Gently toss everything together to combine.
  4. Optional Add-ins: Add any optional ingredients like red onion, arugula, cucumber, or toasted nuts, and toss again.
  5. Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • For extra spice, add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or jalapeño slices to the salad.
  • If you prefer a sweeter salad, drizzle with honey or agave syrup or add fruits like orange slices or strawberries.
  • To make it vegan, use a plant-based feta cheese alternative.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: undefined
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 90
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

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