Watermelon Salad: A Refreshing Summer Delight

A watermelon salad is the perfect summer side dish—light, hydrating, and bursting with flavor. Combining sweet watermelon with savory, creamy, and tangy ingredients, this salad hits all the right notes. Whether served at a barbecue, picnic, or sunny lunch, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

What Is a Watermelon Salad?

Watermelon salad is a vibrant dish made with fresh watermelon cubes paired with ingredients that balance its sweetness. The most popular version features feta cheese, mint leaves, red onion, and a drizzle of lime or balsamic glaze. It’s easy to prepare, visually stunning, and incredibly refreshing.

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Watermelon Salad

Watermelon Salad Recipe Recap

This watermelon salad recipe is a must-have for summer. It’s light, flavorful, and requires minimal prep. With juicy watermelon, creamy feta, fresh herbs, and a zesty finish, it’s the ultimate hot-weather salad. Try it now and enjoy pure refreshment on a plate!
Make this easy watermelon salad today—perfect for your next picnic, BBQ, or weekday lunch!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Mediterranean-inspired
Servings 4
Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups seedless watermelon cubed
  • 1/2 cup cucumber sliced (optional)
  • 1/4 red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh mint or basil chopped
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice or balsamic glaze
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, combine watermelon, onion, cucumber, and feta.
  • Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice.
  • Sprinkle chopped herbs, toss gently.
  • Chill for 15 minutes and serve cold.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 180
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Protein: 4g

 

Keyword Easy Salad, Summer Salad, Watermelon Salad

Key Ingredients for the Best Watermelon Salad

Watermelon Salad: A Refreshing Summer Delight

To make a truly memorable watermelon salad, use the freshest ingredients:

  • Watermelon: Seedless and chilled for the best texture and flavor.
  • Feta cheese: Crumbled or cubed; adds creamy and salty contrast.
  • Cucumber: Optional, but adds a cool crunch.
  • Red onion: Thinly sliced for a sharp bite.
  • Fresh mint or basil: Brings brightness and aroma.
  • Lime juice or balsamic glaze: For acidity and depth.
  • Olive oil: Enhances all the flavors and adds a silky finish.

Optional add-ins include arugula, avocado, cherry tomatoes, or kalamata olives.

How to Make (Step-by-Step)

  1. Prepare the Ingredients:
    • Cut watermelon into bite-sized cubes.
    • Thinly slice red onion and cucumber (if using).
    • Crumble the feta cheese.
    • Chop the fresh mint or basil.
  2. Assemble the Salad:
    • In a large bowl, gently combine the watermelon, onion, cucumber, and feta.
    • Drizzle with olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
    • Sprinkle mint or basil over the top.
    • Add a touch of salt and pepper if desired.
  3. Chill & Serve:
    • For best flavor, chill for 15 minutes before serving.
    • Optionally, finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Tips for a Perfect Watermelon Salad

  • Use cold ingredients: A chilled salad is much more refreshing.
  • Balance the salt: Feta adds a lot of salt, so season lightly.
  • Add dressing just before serving: To avoid sogginess.
  • Use firm watermelon: It should hold its shape when mixed.
  • Cut uniformly: Cubes of similar size make for a more elegant presentation.

Watermelon Salad Variations to Try

Watermelon & Arugula Salad

Add a handful of peppery arugula for a slightly bitter balance to the sweet fruit.

Avocado Watermelon Salad

Creamy avocado slices offer richness and texture contrast.

Greek-Style Watermelon Salad

Add kalamata olives, tomatoes, and oregano for a Mediterranean twist.

Spicy Watermelon Salad

Toss with a few dashes of chili flakes or a squeeze of sriracha for heat.

Watermelon Quinoa Salad

Mix in cooked quinoa for a heartier, protein-packed version.

Health Benefits of this Salad

Watermelon salad is more than just tasty—it’s incredibly healthy:

  • Hydrating: Watermelon is over 90% water.
  • Low calorie: Naturally light and satisfying.
  • Rich in vitamins: Especially Vitamin C, A, and antioxidants.
  • Good fats: From olive oil and feta.
  • Fresh herbs: Offer digestive and anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

What goes in a watermelon salad?

A classic watermelon salad typically includes cubed watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, red onion, fresh mint or basil, and a drizzle of lime juice or balsamic glaze. Optional ingredients like cucumber, arugula, or olives can add more texture and flavor.

What is a good combination with watermelon?

Watermelon pairs beautifully with salty, creamy, and herbaceous ingredients. Great combinations include feta cheese and mint, avocado and lime, or cucumbers and red onions. Adding greens like arugula or spinach can also enhance the dish.

What dressing to use on watermelon feta salad?

A light dressing works best—fresh lime juice and olive oil is a popular choice. For added complexity, try a balsamic reduction or a honey-lime vinaigrette. These dressings balance the sweetness of the watermelon with acidity and richness.

What should not be mixed with watermelon?

Avoid mixing watermelon with dairy that curdles easily (like milk or yogurt in warm conditions), as it can affect digestion and texture. Also, avoid overly salty or bitter foods that overpower its delicate sweetness.

SO NOW !!

Watermelon salad is one of the easiest ways to showcase fresh summer produce. It’s colorful, quick to prepare, and customizable to fit any meal. Whether you keep it classic or try one of the variations, this dish is sure to become a seasonal staple.

Grab a bowl, cube that watermelon, and enjoy the burst of summer in every bite!