This refreshing watermelon cucumber salad is a burst of summer on your plate! Juicy watermelon, cool cucumber, and crumbly feta make a delightful combination that’s perfect for sunny days.
You can’t help but smile with each bite! I love serving this salad at picnics, and every time, it disappears quickly. Who knew healthy could taste this good? 🍉🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Make sure to use seedless watermelon for ease and a smoother texture. If watermelon isn’t available, cantaloupe is a tasty choice or you could even try honeydew for a similar sweet flavor.
Cucumber: English cucumbers are great because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, making them more tender. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work too. For a twist, you could also use radishes for a peppery crunch!
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta gives this salad a salty kick. If you want a vegan option, try using crumbled tofu or vegan feta. Goat cheese can also be a nice creamy substitute if you enjoy its flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Mint and basil add wonderful freshness. If you don’t have basil, try using parsley or dill instead for a different herbaceous touch.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture in My Salad?
For the best texture, make sure to cut the watermelon and cucumber into similar-sized cubes. It helps everything mix well and makes it easier to eat. Here’s a quick guide:
- Use a sharp knife for clean cuts that don’t squash the fruit.
- After cutting, let the watermelon drain a bit if it seems juicy to avoid making the salad too watery.
- Toss gently, so the ingredients stay intact and maintain their freshness in the salad.
Chilling the salad before serving also helps meld the flavors while keeping the salad crisp and refreshing!
Fresh Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Feta
Ingredients:
- 4 cups seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups cucumber, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus some whole leaves for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of sea salt (if needed)
Time Needed:
This delightful salad takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare, with an additional 15-30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, you can whip it up quickly and let it cool while you finish prepping your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base:
In a large bowl, start by adding the watermelon cubes and cucumber cubes. This is the vibrant base of your salad that brings sweetness and crunch!
2. Add Fresh Herbs:
Next, sprinkle the chopped mint and basil leaves over the watermelon and cucumber. These fresh herbs will add a burst of flavor and a lovely aroma to your salad.
3. Sprinkle the Feta:
Crumble the feta cheese evenly over the salad layers. The feta will provide a creamy and salty contrast to the sweetness of the fruits.
4. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the fresh lime juice, and olive oil over the mixture. The lime juice adds a zesty tang that brightens the entire dish.
5. Mix Gently:
Now, it’s time to toss! Gently combine all the ingredients, being careful not to break the watermelon cubes. You want everything to be mixed, but still intact for that perfect bite!
6. Season and Garnish:
Finish your salad by seasoning with freshly ground black pepper. If you think it needs a little extra flavor, add a pinch of sea salt. Then, garnish it with whole basil and mint leaves for a beautiful presentation.
7. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Once chilled, serve it fresh as a delightful side dish for any summer gathering.
This watermelon cucumber salad is not only quick and easy to make, but it’s also refreshing and hydrating. The sweetness of the watermelon pairs perfectly with the crispy cucumber and salty feta, all brought together by the fresh herbs and zesty lime. Enjoy every bite of this summer delight!
FAQ for Fresh Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Feta
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese Besides Feta?
Absolutely! While feta adds a delicious tanginess, you can substitute it with goat cheese for a creamier texture or even a vegan cheese alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Cheddar can work too for a different flavor profile.
What If I Can’t Find Fresh Herbs?
No worries! If you can’t get fresh mint or basil, you can use dried herbs instead. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about a third of the amount. Alternatively, you can skip the herbs entirely, and the salad will still taste great!
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that the watermelon may release extra moisture over time, so it’s best eaten fresh for optimal texture!
Can I Add More Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the salad by adding ingredients like diced bell peppers for extra crunch, sliced red onion for a bit of bite, or even avocado for some creaminess. Just be mindful of how additional ingredients might alter the overall flavor balance.
