This refreshing watermelon feta salad is packed with juicy watermelon, crunchy cucumber, and sweet blueberries. It’s perfect for hot days and just the thing to brighten up any meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Choose ripe, seedless watermelon for the best sweetness and juiciness. If watermelon is not in season, cantaloupe or honeydew can be tasty alternatives!
Cucumber: English cucumbers are great because they have fewer seeds and a crisp texture. If you prefer, try using zucchini for a twist!
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are ideal, but you can substitute with blackberries or raspberries to mix up the flavor. Frozen berries can be used if fresh ones aren’t available; just toss them in without thawing!
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta gives a nice salty kick. If you need a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu, seasoned with a bit of salt and lemon juice for flavor.
Basil: Fresh basil adds a nice herbal note. You can use mint if you want something different, as it pairs wonderfully with the fruit!
How Do I Ensure the Perfect Toss and Flavor Balance?
The key to a great salad is how you mix and season it. Start by preparing all ingredients so they’re ready to go. Toss the watermelon, cucumber, blueberries, and feta gently to avoid squishing the fruit.
- Whisk the olive oil and lemon juice well; this ensures an even coating and bright flavor.
- When dressing the salad, start with a little dressing—it’s easier to add more later than to fix an overly oily salad.
- Always taste before serving! Adjust the salt and pepper based on the saltiness of your feta.
- For the best flavor, let it chill in the refrigerator for a bit. This gives time for the flavors to mix, resulting in a more refreshing bite.
Easy Watermelon Feta Salad with Cucumber and Blueberries
Ingredients:
- 3 cups seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup cucumber, peeled and sliced or cut into chunks
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 cup feta cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced or chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You can serve it immediately or chill it for 15-20 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Start by cutting the watermelon into 1-inch cubes and the feta cheese into small cubes. Peel the cucumber and slice it or cut it into chunks, and then wash the blueberries thoroughly. Having everything ready to go makes the assembly much easier!
2. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the watermelon cubes, cucumber pieces, blueberries, and feta cheese. Mixing these main ingredients first allows you to see the beautiful colors and textures of this fresh salad!
3. Add the Fresh Touch:
Add the thinly sliced or chopped fresh basil leaves to the bowl. The basil will give a wonderful aroma and freshness to the salad!
4. Whisk the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and fresh lemon juice until well combined. This simple dressing will bring all the flavors together!
5. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the fruit and feta mixture in the large bowl. You can adjust the amount of dressing based on your personal taste, but start with all of it. You can always add more later!
6. Toss Gently:
Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful to avoid smashing the fruit; we want it to stay intact!
7. Season to Taste:
Finally, sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, taking care not to overdo it since the feta cheese is already salty.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste, or you can let it chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. Enjoy this vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for light summer meals!
This easy salad is vibrant, refreshing, and combines the sweet juiciness of watermelon and blueberries with the crisp crunch of cucumber and the savory tang of feta—a perfect light dish for warm weather!
FAQ for Easy Watermelon Feta Salad
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! While watermelon and blueberries are great, you can swap them with fruits like strawberries, peaches, or kiwi. Just keep in mind that the sweetness and flavor will change slightly with each substitution.
How Long Will This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days. Keep in mind that the watermelon may release some juice, making it slightly watery, so try to consume it quickly!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare and cut all the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to combine them and add the dressing just before serving. This will help maintain the freshness and crunchiness of the veggies and fruits.
What’s a Good Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free or different cheese option, try using crumbled tofu seasoned with lemon juice and a pinch of salt, or goat cheese for a slightly tangy taste. Both alternatives provide a nice flavor contrast in the salad!
