This watermelon cucumber salad is a burst of summer freshness! It combines sweet watermelon, crunchy cucumber, and creamy feta cheese for a delightful treat that’s light and bright.
It’s perfect for hot days or outdoor gatherings. I love how easy it is to whip up—just chop, mix, and enjoy! Plus, the colorful mix makes it super fun to serve. 🍉🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Sweet, juicy watermelon is the star of the show! Look for a ripe, seedless variety. If watermelon isn’t in season, try cantaloupe for a different but still delicious taste.
Cucumber: Crunchy cucumbers add a refreshing touch. English cucumbers are great as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. If you don’t have cucumbers, zucchini can be a good substitute; just make sure to dice it finely.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives the salad a creamy, salty contrast. For a different flavor, try goat cheese or even queso fresco. If you’re avoiding dairy, a vegan feta made from nuts can work as an alternative.
Fresh Mint: Mint adds a burst of freshness. If you don’t have mint, fresh basil or parsley can add a nice flavor too, just keep in mind that it’ll change the taste slightly!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the flavors. Lemon juice can be a great substitute if you don’t have lime. Additionally, apple cider vinegar or a splash of balsamic vinegar can add a nice zing.
How Do You Prevent the Salad from Being Watery?
One challenge with salads using watermelon is keeping them fresh and not too watery. Here’s how to avoid excess moisture:
- **Salting the Cucumber:** Before mixing, sprinkle diced cucumber with a little salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out some of its water. Pat them dry before adding to the salad.
- **Chill Before Serving:** Make sure to chill the salad after mixing. This helps keep everything crisp and fresh, especially if you’re serving it on a hot day.
- **Serve Immediately:** As much as it’s tempting to make it ahead, this salad is best served fresh. The longer it sits, the more watery it may become.
Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your taste preference and what you have on hand. This salad is all about celebrating simple, vibrant flavors! Enjoy!
Refreshing Watermelon Cucumber Salad With Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
- 2 cups cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1/2 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 you about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 15 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. Total time: around 25 minutes! Perfect for a quick and delicious side dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, start by adding the cubed watermelon and diced cucumber. These two ingredients create a wonderfully refreshing base for the salad.
2. Add Feta and Mint:
Now, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh mint leaves into the bowl. The saltiness of the feta combined with the freshness of the mint adds a really nice flavor contrast.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, olive oil, a pinch of salt, and black pepper until they’re well combined. This dressing will tie all the ingredients together.
4. Mix Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the watermelon mixture. Gently toss everything together, being careful not to break up the watermelon cubes too much. You want to keep those lovely, juicy pieces whole!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This chill time helps all the flavors meld together beautifully. After chilling, it’s ready to serve!
6. Enjoy!
Serve the salad cold as a delightful side dish or light appetizer. Enjoy the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors—great for any summer gathering!
This watermelon cucumber salad is not only quick to make but also a vibrant, tasty dish that makes the most of fresh ingredients. Enjoy every refreshing bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! While watermelon is the star, you can mix in other fruits like cantaloupe, strawberries, or even mango for a new twist. Just keep the fruit juiciness in mind, as it might change the texture slightly.
How Long Does Leftover Salad Stay Fresh?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, for the best taste and texture, it’s best to eat it fresh. The watermelon can release water over time, making the salad watery.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
You can prepare the salad ingredients (excluding the dressing) ahead of time, but it’s best to mix everything together just before serving. If you need to make it in advance, store the watermelon and cucumber separately from the feta and dressing to keep everything fresh.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, goat cheese or ricotta can work well in place of feta. For a dairy-free option, try using a store-bought vegan feta or crumble some tofu and marinate it in lemon juice and salt for flavor.
