This Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad is a cool and crunchy treat! With juicy watermelon, crisp cucumbers, and salty feta, it’s super refreshing for warm days.
Honestly, it’s like summer on a plate! 🥗 I love to serve it as a side dish at barbecues. Plus, it’s so easy to make—you just chop and toss everything together!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Use seedless watermelon for convenience. If it’s not available, you can opt for small, sweet melons like cantaloupe or honeydew as a substitute, although the flavor will be a bit different!
Cucumber: I recommend English cucumbers for their crisp texture and fewer seeds. If you can’t find them, Persian cucumbers work well too! Regular cucumbers can be used but may have more seeds and a thicker skin.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives this salad a salty and tangy flavor. You could replace it with goat cheese for a creamier taste. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try crumbling some tofu mixed with a little lemon juice and salt.
Mint: Fresh mint brightens up the salad. If you’re not a fan, basil or even parsley could work as tasty alternatives. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to your taste!
How Do I Cut the Watermelon and Cucumber Neatly?
Cutting watermelon and cucumber can be tricky but it’s easy with the right technique. Here’s how to do it safely:
- For watermelon, slice it in half lengthwise first. Then, lay it cut-side down and slice into long strips, and cut those into cubes.
- For cucumber, simply peel if you like, then cut it lengthwise before slicing into half-moons or cubes. This helps you get even pieces!
Make sure your knife is sharp to prevent slipping, and take your time. It’s all about safety and getting those nice, even pieces for the salad.
Refreshing Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups seedless watermelon, cut into cubes
- 1 large cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fresh and delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes chopping the ingredients, mixing everything together, and chilling it in the refrigerator for the best flavors. So, in no time, you can enjoy a refreshing dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Watermelon and Cucumber:
Start by cutting your seedless watermelon into cubes. Next, peel the cucumber and dice it into small pieces. Try to make them roughly the same size for even bites!
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the watermelon cubes and diced cucumber. Then, add the crumbled feta cheese and chopped mint leaves. This will create a lovely mix of flavors and textures!
3. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the fresh lime juice and olive oil over your salad mix. This will enhance the sweetness of the watermelon and add a nice zing!
4. Toss It Gently:
Use a large spoon to gently toss everything together. Be careful not to mash the watermelon—just mix until all ingredients are nicely coated.
5. Season and Chill:
Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Then, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
After chilling, give the salad a gentle toss one more time before serving. Enjoy your refreshing watermelon cucumber feta salad as a light appetizer or side dish at your next gathering!
FAQ for Refreshing Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese Instead of Feta?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of feta, goat cheese is a great alternative, providing a creamy texture and tangy flavor. Alternatively, crumbled queso fresco or even cottage cheese can work in a pinch! Just keep in mind that flavors will vary slightly.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, for the best taste and texture, it’s best to eat it fresh since the watermelon may release more juice over time.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based feta or some crumbled tofu marinated in lemon juice and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
What Else Can I Add to This Salad?
Feel free to get creative! You can add ingredients like diced bell peppers for extra crunch, or thinly sliced red onions for a bit of zing. A sprinkle of chili flakes or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar can also add another layer of flavor!
