Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Refreshing and Hydrating: The high water content in watermelon and cucumber makes this salad exceptionally hydrating.
- Flavorful Combination: The sweetness of watermelon contrasts with the saltiness of feta, creating a balanced taste.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation, this salad comes together in just a few minutes.
- Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from fresh ingredients.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable with additional ingredients or substitutions to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 mini watermelon (approximately 4 cups), rind removed and cubed
- 2 Persian cucumbers (approximately 1 cup), sliced
- 3 ounces feta cheese, cut into cubes
- 1 tablespoon chopped mint
- 1 tablespoon chopped basil
- 1 lime, juiced
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, to taste
Directions
- In a large serving bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, sliced cucumber, cubed feta cheese, chopped mint, and chopped basil.
- Squeeze the lime juice over the salad mixture.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Gently stir to combine all ingredients.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Add Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion can add a sharp flavor contrast.
- Incorporate Arugula: Adding arugula provides a peppery note and extra greens.
- Use Different Herbs: Try cilantro or parsley instead of mint and basil for a different flavor profile.
- Balsamic Glaze Drizzle: A light drizzle of balsamic glaze can add a sweet and tangy dimension.
- Add Nuts: Sprinkle toasted almonds or walnuts for added crunch and protein.
Storage/Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed fresh due to the high water content of the watermelon and cucumber, which can make the salad watery over time. If you need to store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one day. Note that the texture may change, and it's recommended to drain any excess liquid before serving again. This salad is not suitable for reheating.
FAQs
How do I choose a ripe watermelon?
Look for a watermelon with a uniform shape, a creamy yellow spot on one side (where it rested on the ground), and a hollow sound when tapped.
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian cucumbers?
Yes, you can use regular cucumbers. If they have thick skin or large seeds, consider peeling and seeding them for better texture.
Is there a substitute for feta cheese?
Goat cheese or ricotta salata can be good alternatives, offering a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It's best to prepare this salad just before serving to maintain its fresh texture and flavor. If necessary, you can prepare the ingredients separately and combine them just before serving.
What main dishes pair well with this salad?
This salad pairs excellently with grilled meats, seafood, or as part of a picnic spread.
How can I make this salad vegan?
Omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based feta alternative to make the salad vegan.
Can I add other fruits to this salad?
Yes, adding fruits like strawberries or blueberries can enhance the flavor and add variety.
What type of mint is best for this recipe?
Spearmint is commonly used, but any variety of fresh mint can work based on your preference.
How do I prevent the salad from becoming too watery?
Serve the salad immediately after preparation. If storing, drain excess liquid before serving again.
Is olive oil necessary in this salad?
While optional, a light drizzle of olive oil adds richness and helps meld the flavors together.
Conclusion
This Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta is a simple yet flavorful dish that captures the essence of summer. Its refreshing ingredients and easy preparation make it a go-to recipe for warm days and gatherings. Feel free to experiment with variations to suit your taste, and enjoy this delightful salad as a refreshing addition to your meal repertoire.
Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta
This Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta is a refreshing summer dish that combines sweet, juicy watermelon with crisp cucumbers, creamy feta, and fresh herbs. Perfect as a light lunch or side dish, this easy salad is hydrating, flavorful, and ready in just 10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Summer
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 mini watermelon (about 4 cups), cubed
- 2 Persian cucumbers (about 1 cup), sliced
- 3 oz feta cheese, cubed
- 1 tbsp chopped mint
- 1 tbsp chopped basil
- 1 lime, juiced
- Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, to taste
Instructions
- In a large serving bowl, combine cubed watermelon, sliced cucumber, feta cheese, chopped mint, and basil.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the salad.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Gently mix to combine all ingredients.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Serve fresh to prevent excess liquid from forming.
- Add red onions, arugula, or nuts for extra flavor and texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to one day.
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