A Refreshing Summer Treat: Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint and Cucumber
Tasty summer homemade watermelon salad with cucumbers, mint and feta cheese. Salad with berries and ice cream. Served on plate on blue background. Summer food concept.

A Refreshing Summer Treat: Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint and Cucumber

As the summer sun heats things up, our taste buds crave cool, light, and refreshing dishes. Enter the watermelon feta salad – a symphony of sweet, salty, and savory flavors that’s perfect for a quick lunch, a light side dish at a barbecue, or a delightful appetizer. This vibrant salad takes minimal effort to prepare yet delivers a burst of taste and a satisfying crunch.

Packed with juicy watermelon, refreshing cucumber, tangy feta cheese, and fragrant mint, this salad is a nutritional powerhouse. Watermelon is a natural source of vitamins A and C, and it also boasts hydrating properties. Cucumber adds a touch of coolness and essential vitamins and minerals. Feta cheese provides a salty contrast and a creamy texture, while mint elevates the entire dish with its fresh, aromatic notes.

Here’s how you can create this delightful summer salad in no time:

Ingredients:

  • 1 small seedless watermelon, about 4 cups cubed
  • 1 large English cucumber, peeled and sliced
  • ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish, optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
  • Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Preparation:

  1. Prep the Watermelon: Wash and dry the watermelon. Cut it in half lengthwise and discard the seeds. Using a sharp knife, cut the watermelon flesh into bite-sized cubes.
  2. Slice the Cucumber: Wash and peel the cucumber. Slice it thinly, either into rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference.
  3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, sliced cucumber, and crumbled feta cheese. Gently toss the ingredients to distribute them evenly.
  4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
  5. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the salad with chopped fresh mint leaves (optional) and serve immediately.

Tips:

  • For a more intense flavor, marinate the cubed watermelon in a sprinkle of sugar and lime juice for 10-15 minutes before adding it to the salad.
  • If you don’t have fresh mint, you can substitute it with chopped basil or a pinch of dried mint.
  • To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese. You can add a sprinkle of toasted nuts for extra texture and protein.
  • Drizzle the salad with a balsamic glaze for a sweeter and more tangy flavor profile.

Conclusion:

The watermelon feta salad is a delightful and versatile dish that’s perfect for any summer occasion. It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its vibrant colors, refreshing flavors, and delightful textures, this salad embodies the essence of summer. So, the next time you crave a light and delicious meal, whip up this quick and easy watermelon feta salad and enjoy a taste of summertime bliss!