This refreshing peach watermelon salad is perfect for summer! Juicy peaches and sweet watermelon come together for a light and tasty treat that’s as colorful as it is delicious.
Adding a squeeze of lime juice takes it to the next level. I love serving this at barbecues—everyone always goes back for seconds! 🥗🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Choose a seedless watermelon for easy cutting. If watermelon isn’t available, try cantaloupe or honeydew for a similar refreshing taste.
Peaches: Ripe peaches provide sweetness and flavor. If fresh peaches are out of season, canned peaches in juice can work in a pinch—just drain them well.
Cucumber: This adds crunch! English cucumbers are great for their mild flavor. If you’re looking for something different, consider using zucchini or radishes for a unique twist.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a salty creaminess. For a non-dairy option, try crumbled tofu with a splash of lime juice, or omit cheese altogether.
Mint: Fresh mint adds a lovely aroma. If you don’t have mint, basil or cilantro can offer a new flavor. Dried herbs could also work, but use less since they are more concentrated.
How Do I Ensure My Dressing is Perfectly Balanced?
Creating a delicious dressing is crucial for tying the salad together. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with extra virgin olive oil for richness, then add your acid, like vinegar or lemon juice. A 2:1 ratio (oil to acid) is a good guideline.
- If you add honey, taste the dressing before adding more. Sweetness can vary, depending on how ripe your fruit is.
- Whisk until well combined; this helps to emulsify the oil and vinegar for a creamy texture.
- Always taste and adjust with more salt or pepper to suit your preference.
Enjoy making your salad! The fresh flavors will be a hit at any summer gathering!
Easy Peach Watermelon Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups watermelon, cut into balls or cubes
- 2 ripe peaches, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or to taste (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Just a short time to chop fruits and veggies, whisk together a quick dressing, and you’re all set. If you choose to chill it in the fridge, adding an extra 15-30 minutes will enhance the flavors even more!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Fresh Ingredients:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl. In it, toss in your watermelon cubes or balls, thinly sliced peaches, and cucumber slices. This combination brings a sweet and juicy burst to the salad!
2. Add Feta and Mint:
Next, sprinkle in the cubed feta cheese and the roughly chopped fresh mint leaves. Both add incredible flavor and creamy texture to your salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
Grab a small bowl for the dressing. Whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), honey (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt and black pepper. This dressing will tie all the flavors together!
4. Toss It All Together:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients, then gently toss everything together. Be careful to handle the watermelon and feta gently, so they don’t break apart too much.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Sample your salad and adjust any seasonings if needed. A little extra salt or a splash more vinegar can enhance the flavors!
6. Serve or Chill:
For the best experience, serve your salad right away. If you’d like to let the flavors meld, cover it and chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your refreshing summertime dish!
This fresh and colorful salad is perfect for summer gatherings!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! If peaches aren’t in season, consider substituting them with nectarines, plums, or even strawberries for a different flavor profile. Each will add a unique sweetness to the salad!
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep in mind that the watermelon might release water, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftover dressing, store it separately to keep the salad crisp!
Is This Salad Vegan-Friendly?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based feta alternative. The salad will still be delicious with all the fresh fruits and vegetables!
Can I Add Nuts or Seeds for Extra Crunch?
Yes, adding nuts or seeds is a great idea! Toasted almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds can enhance both the texture and flavor of the salad. Just sprinkle them in just before serving to keep them crunchy!
