This refreshing watermelon salad is a perfect summer treat! Sweet chunks of watermelon are mixed with creamy feta cheese and bright, fresh mint for a wonderful taste combination.
You won’t believe how simple it is! Just toss everything in a bowl and enjoy a light, tasty dish that’s great for picnics or BBQs. I like to serve it chilled for the best flavor! 🍉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: This is the star of the salad! Choose a ripe watermelon for the sweetest flavor. If watermelon is unavailable, you could try cantaloupe or honeydew for a similar refreshing effect.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a nice salty touch to the salad. If you prefer a creamier texture, goat cheese is a great alternative. For a dairy-free option, use a vegan feta cheese substitute.
Fresh Mint: Mint brings a burst of freshness. If you’re not a fan, basil can be a lovely substitute, although it will change the flavor profile a bit. Dried mint can work too, but fresh is always better!
Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil enhances the salad’s taste. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can skip the oil or use a splash of lemon juice instead.
How Do I Keep My Watermelon Salad Fresh and Bright?
The key to a great watermelon salad is how you combine the ingredients. Start by cutting the watermelon into even-sized cubes to ensure uniform flavor in each bite. Mix gently just before serving to prevent the watermelon from getting mushy.
- Prepare your salad ahead of time, but add the dressing (olive oil) right before serving.
- Chilling the salad for 15-30 minutes can really enhance the refreshing taste.
- When serving, use a slotted spoon if there’s any excess liquid to keep the dish from becoming soggy.
Remember, presentation makes a difference! Serve your salad in a bright bowl or on a colorful plate for the best effect.
Easy Watermelon Salad with Feta and Fresh Mint
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups watermelon, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: a pinch of sea salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an optional 15-30 minute chilling time in the fridge. So, in just about 10-40 minutes, you’ll have a deliciously refreshing salad ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Watermelon:
Start by cutting your fresh watermelon into bite-sized cubes. Aim for uniform pieces so each bite is perfectly sweet and juicy!
2. Assemble the Ingredients:
Place the watermelon cubes into a large salad bowl. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top. The feta adds a nice salty touch that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet watermelon.
3. Add Fresh Mint:
Next, toss in the thinly sliced fresh mint leaves. The mint will give your salad a refreshing burst of flavor!
4. Drizzle with Olive Oil:
Lightly drizzle the olive oil over the salad. This helps bring all the flavors together while adding a touch of richness.
5. Season the Salad:
Sprinkle the lemon zest over the top for brightness. Then, season with freshly ground black pepper to taste, and if you like, add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavors.
6. Toss Gently:
Gently toss all the ingredients together using a large spoon. Be careful not to crush the watermelon pieces; you want everything to stay nice and fresh!
7. Chill & Serve:
For the best taste, chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes before serving. This gives the flavors a chance to meld together beautifully.
8. Enjoy!
Serve your refreshing watermelon salad as a light side dish or summer appetizer. Enjoy every bite of this deliciously sweet and savory treat! Perfect for sharing at gatherings or just enjoying on a warm day.
FAQ About Easy Watermelon Salad with Feta and Fresh Mint
Can I Use Other Melons in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While watermelon is the star, you can substitute it with cantaloupe or honeydew. Each melon will provide a unique flavor, but they all pair wonderfully with feta and mint!
How Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance! Chop the watermelon and mint, and crumble the feta. Store each ingredient separately in the fridge, then combine just before serving for the freshest taste and texture.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Mint?
If fresh mint isn’t available, basil makes a great substitute! It will change the flavor slightly, but it still adds a fresh touch. Dried mint can be used as well but should be added in smaller amounts since it’s more concentrated.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that the watermelon will release juice over time, which might make the salad a bit soggy. For best results, consume it fresh!
