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Fresh Watermelon and Feta Salad

fresh watermelon and feta salad - featured image

A quick, refreshing, and light summer salad combining juicy watermelon, creamy feta, fresh mint, and a simple lime-olive oil dressing. Perfect for hot days and easy to customize.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups watermelon, cubed (seedless if possible)
  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled (preferably block-style)
  • A small handful fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped (about 1/4 cup)
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, freshly cracked, to taste
  • Optional: 2 cups baby arugula or spinach
  • Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pepitas or walnuts
  • Optional: Chili flakes for a subtle kick

Instructions

  1. Prepare the watermelon by slicing into manageable sections, removing the rind, and cutting the flesh into roughly 1-inch cubes (about 4 cups).
  2. Peel and thinly slice the red onion into half-moons. Soak in cold water for 5 minutes if you want to mellow the sharpness, then drain.
  3. Rinse fresh mint leaves and roughly chop to make about 1/4 cup.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the watermelon cubes, crumbled feta, red onion slices, chopped mint, and optional greens if using. Be gentle to keep the watermelon intact.
  5. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and the juice of one lime over the salad. Season with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Toss lightly to distribute flavors evenly.
  6. Add optional chili flakes or toasted nuts just before serving for extra flavor and crunch.
  7. Serve immediately for best texture and freshness. If storing, cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours.

Notes

Add salt gradually since feta is already salty. Use block-style feta for better texture. Assemble just before serving to avoid watery salad. Fresh mint should be added last to retain aroma. For dairy-free, substitute feta with vegan cheese or marinated tofu. Optional additions include arugula, nuts, chili flakes, or seasonal herbs like basil.

Nutrition

Keywords: watermelon salad, feta salad, summer salad, light meal, easy salad, fresh mint, lime dressing, healthy salad