Refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad Recipe | What’s the Secret?

Meet your new summer obsession: the Refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad. This vibrant dish is the epitome of summer on a plate, combining the sweetness of juicy watermelon with the salty kick of feta cheese.

Fresh mint and a zesty lime dressing tie everything together, creating a symphony of flavors that is both light and satisfying. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch, this salad is incredibly easy to make and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to enjoy a burst of freshness in every bite!

Ingredients Required

A handful of fresh ingredients is all you need to create this delightful summer salad.

• 1 kg seedless watermelon, cut into chunks
• 250g feta cheese, crumbled or cubed
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• A bunch of fresh mint, leaves chopped
• 100g Kalamata olives, pitted
• 1 small cucumber, peeled and diced (optional)
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

How to cook Refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad?

Follow these simple steps to create a masterpiece in minutes.

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, gently combine the watermelon chunks, crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onion, chopped mint leaves, and Kalamata olives. If you’re using cucumber, add it to the bowl as well.

Step 2: Whisk the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and brown sugar. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Continue whisking until the dressing is well combined.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors.

Your Questions Answered

Here are some common questions about this delicious salad.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It’s best to serve this salad immediately after preparing it to prevent the watermelon from becoming watery. However, you can chop the ingredients in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Combine them with the dressing just before serving.

What other herbs can I use besides mint?

While mint is a classic choice, you can also use fresh basil or parsley for a different flavor profile. A combination of herbs can also work wonderfully.

Is there a substitute for feta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of feta, you can use goat cheese or even small mozzarella balls (bocconcini) as an alternative. The taste will be different but still delicious.

What can I add to make this salad more filling?

To make this salad a more substantial meal, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or a cup of cooked quinoa. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds can also add a nice crunch and extra protein.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Salad

• Chill Your Watermelon: For the most refreshing salad, make sure your watermelon is well-chilled before you start.
• Don’t Over-Toss: Be gentle when tossing the salad to avoid mashing the watermelon and feta.
• Adjust Sweetness: If your watermelon is very sweet, you might want to reduce the amount of sugar in the dressing.