This colorful watermelon salad combines sweet, juicy watermelon with crumbly feta cheese and fresh mint. It’s a refreshing treat for hot days!
Every bite is like a summer hug! I love serving it at picnics. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, which makes it a win-win for busy days—tasty and quick!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Seedless is ideal since you won’t have to deal with pesky seeds. If watermelon isn’t in season, you can use cantaloupe or honeydew for a similar sweet flavor.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta brings a salty kick. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan feta or crumble salty olives as a substitute.
Fresh Mint: Mint adds a bright, fresh taste. If you don’t have it, basil could be a unique yet tasty alternative. Just chop it up similarly!
Lemon Zest: This is key for a burst of flavor. If you’re out of lemons, lime zest works wonderfully too. Just remember to adjust to your taste!
How Can I Make Sure My Watermelon Salad Stays Fresh?
To keep your watermelon salad tasting great, follow these tips:
- Assemble just before serving. Watermelon releases juices, which can make the salad soggy.
- Store leftover salad in a sealed container in the fridge. Eating it within a day is best to enjoy its freshness.
- Consider tossing in cucumber for a crunch that stays crisp even longer!
Fresh Watermelon Salad With Feta And Mint
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 6 cups seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, thinly sliced
For The Flavor Boost:
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a splash of fresh lime juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s perfect for a quick side dish or a light meal—no cooking required!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Watermelon:
Start by cutting the watermelon into bite-sized cubes. This helps make it easy to serve and eat. After cutting, transfer the watermelon cubes into a large serving bowl.
2. Add the Feta:
Next, crumble the feta cheese on top of the watermelon cubes. This will give a lovely salty contrast to the sweet fruit.
3. Incorporate the Mint:
Thinly slice the fresh mint leaves and sprinkle them evenly over the salad. Mint adds a refreshing flavor that pairs perfectly with the watermelon.
4. Enhance with Lemon Zest:
Grate the lemon zest over the salad. The zest adds a bright, citrusy aroma that brings everything together beautifully.
5. Season to Taste:
Add freshly ground black pepper to taste. This gives a nice kick and enhances all the flavors in the dish.
6. Add Optional Ingredients:
If you fancy it, drizzle a small amount of extra virgin olive oil or a splash of fresh lime juice for an extra level of flavor.
7. Toss Gently:
Before serving, gently toss everything together to mix the flavors while being careful not to mush the watermelon cubes.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the fresh taste. This hydrating dish is perfect for hot days or as a side at your next gathering!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese in This Salad?
Absolutely! If feta isn’t your favorite, try goat cheese for a creamy option or even mozzarella for a milder taste. Just stick to a cheese that crumbles well for the best texture.
How Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
To prepare this salad in advance, chop the watermelon and mint, and store them separately from the feta and lemon zest. Combine everything just before serving to keep the salad fresh and prevent it from becoming watery.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Watermelon Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. Keep in mind that the watermelon may release more juice, so it’s best to eat it fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Yes! Feel free to add cucumber for extra crunch, red onion for a bite, or even a sprinkle of toasted nuts like pistachios for a nice texture contrast. Just be mindful of balancing flavors!
