Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Strawberries and Feta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Strawberries and Feta is a refreshing, light, and flavorful salad that’s perfect for hot summer days. The sweetness of watermelon and strawberries pairs beautifully with the crispness of cucumber, while the creamy feta adds a delightful savory contrast. It’s an easy-to-make, colorful dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any occasion that calls for a cool, vibrant salad.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 cups watermelon (cubed)
1 cucumber (peeled and thinly sliced)
1 cup strawberries (hulled and sliced)
1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves (chopped)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
Salt and pepper to taste

directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   Cube the watermelon, peel and thinly slice the cucumber, and hull and slice the strawberries.
2. Make the Dressing:
   In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Assemble the Salad:
   In a large bowl, combine the watermelon, cucumber, strawberries, and crumbled feta cheese.
4. Toss the Salad:
   Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, being careful not to break up the watermelon too much.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   Sprinkle the chopped fresh mint leaves over the top of the salad for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 20-30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total time: about 10 minutes

Variations

For extra crunch, add a handful of toasted almonds or walnuts.
Use goat cheese instead of feta for a tangier flavor.
For a spicy kick, add thinly sliced jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes.
Substitute the mint with basil or cilantro for a different herbal note.

storage/reheating

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the watermelon and cucumbers may release water when stored for too long.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and toss them together just before serving to maintain their texture.

Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, you can substitute feta with ricotta salata, goat cheese, or even a sharp cheese like Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

What can I add to make the salad more filling?
Add some cooked quinoa, couscous, or grilled chicken for a more substantial meal.

Can I use other fruits in this salad?
Yes! You can substitute or add fruits like blueberries, oranges, or pineapple for additional flavor and color.

Do I need to peel the cucumber?
It’s optional. If the skin is thin and not too tough, you can leave it on for added texture. Otherwise, peel it for a smoother bite.

Conclusion

Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Strawberries and Feta is a fresh, vibrant, and satisfying dish that combines the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and refreshing flavors. Whether served as a side dish or a light main course, it’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing salad that’s ideal for warm weather and gatherings.

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