This Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad is a cool treat for hot days! Sweet watermelon, crunchy cucumber, and creamy feta cheese blend perfectly for a light and fresh bite.
It’s like summer on a plate! 🍉🥒 I love serving it at gatherings; it’s quick to make and always a hit. Plus, who could resist such a pretty salad?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: This is the star of the salad! Use seedless watermelon for convenience. If watermelon isn’t available, cantaloupe or honeydew melon can make a sweet substitution.
Cucumber: I prefer English cucumbers as they are sweeter and have thinner skin. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers will work too. Just peel them if the skin is tough!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds tanginess and creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, try using a dairy-free feta or crumbled tofu for a similar texture.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint brightens the salad. If you don’t have fresh mint, basil or parsley can be a nice twist, but the flavor will be different.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice gives great acidity. Lemon juice is a fine substitute if limes aren’t on hand.
How Do You Keep Watermelon from Making Your Salad Soggy?
To keep your watermelon salad fresh and not soggy, it’s important to remove excess water from the watermelon. Here’s how:
- Cut the watermelon into cubes and let it sit in a colander for a few minutes to drain excess liquid.
- You can also dab the cubes with paper towels to absorb more moisture before mixing with other ingredients.
These simple steps help maintain a crisp and refreshing salad! Enjoy your preparation and the burst of flavors in this dish! 🍉🥗
Refreshing Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups seedless watermelon, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 cups cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare. Let it chill for at least 15 more minutes in the fridge to let those flavors mix together nicely. So, you can be ready to enjoy this tasty treat in just about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl and toss in the watermelon cubes and diced cucumber. These two ingredients create a beautiful, refreshing base for your salad!
2. Add Feta and Mint:
Next, crumble the feta cheese right into the bowl along with the chopped mint leaves. The cheese adds a nice salty creaminess that pairs perfectly with the sweet watermelon and crisp cucumber!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together your fresh lime juice and olive oil, then season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This dressing will brighten up your salad wonderfully!
4. Combine Everything:
Drizzle your dressing over the watermelon mixture. Now, gently toss everything together until the watermelon, cucumber, feta, and mint are all nicely mixed and coated with the dressing.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This chilling time helps all the flavors blend together. When you’re ready, serve it cold as a refreshing side dish or light snack!
Enjoy your delicious and vibrant Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad! It’s perfect for summer barbecues or a light lunch. 🌞🥗
Can I Use Other Cheeses Instead of Feta?
Absolutely! If feta isn’t your favorite, try using goat cheese for a creamy texture, or even mozzarella for a milder taste. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance! Just mix everything except the dressing, then add the dressing right before serving to keep the salad fresh and crunchy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, be aware that the watermelon may release more water over time, making the salad a bit soggier. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
What Are Some Variations I Can Try?
You can customize this salad by adding ingredients like avocado for creaminess, arugula for a peppery bite, or even a handful of nuts for added crunch. Experiment and find your perfect combination!
