Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta: A Refreshing Summer Delight

by Ally Cohen
Published: Updated:
Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta: A Refreshing Summer Delight
Reading Time: 4 minutes

Indulge in the refreshing, vibrant flavours of our Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta, a classic summer dish that’s both visually appealing and rich in taste. Written by Ally Cohen.

Perfect for warm days, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of watermelon, the crispness of cucumber, the tanginess of feta cheese, and the aromatic freshness of mint. Together, these ingredients create a cooling, satisfying salad ideal for picnics, braais, or as a light appetiser. 

Health Benefits of Watermelon, Cucumber, and Feta Salad

This salad isn’t just delicious – it’s packed with nutrients and health benefits. Watermelon is rich in vitamins A and C and contains a high water content, keeping you hydrated. Cucumber is equally hydrating, while also being low in calories and high in antioxidants. Feta cheese offers a creamy texture along with a good source of calcium and protein, supporting bone health. Finally, fresh mint is known to aid digestion, making this salad a cooling, healthy option.

Ingredients for Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta

To make the perfect Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta, gather the following fresh and quality ingredients:

  • 4 cups of watermelon, cubed – choose a sweet, ripe watermelon for the best flavour
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced – Persian or English cucumbers work best for their crispness
  • 1 cup of feta cheese, crumbled – opt for authentic Greek feta if possible
  • 1/4 cup of red onion, thinly sliced – adds a hint of sharpness
  • 1/4 cup of fresh mint leaves, chopped – brings a refreshing flavour that complements the sweetness of the watermelon
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil – use extra virgin olive oil for its rich, fruity taste
  • 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar – adds a subtle tangy sweetness
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • Black olives, for an added savoury flavour
  • Arugula leaves, for a peppery green contrast

Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Fet

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by preparing all ingredients for easy assembly. Cube the watermelon into bite-sized pieces, approximately 2cm in size. The watermelon cubes should be small enough to eat comfortably but large enough to retain their texture. Place the watermelon in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Dice the Cucumber

Dice the cucumber into similar-sized pieces as the watermelon. The cucumber adds a refreshing crunch that balances well with the softer texture of the watermelon. If you’re using a cucumber with thick skin, you may wish to peel it before dicing. Add the diced cucumber to the bowl with the watermelon.

Step 3: Add the Feta Cheese

Feta cheese brings a delightful creaminess and tanginess to the salad. Crumble the feta directly over the watermelon and cucumber mixture. You can adjust the amount based on your preference for cheese. For a more authentic flavour, use a block of feta and crumble it yourself.

Step 4: Thinly Slice the Red Onion

Thinly slice the red onion for a mild, sharp contrast to the sweet and creamy ingredients. If you find red onion to be too strong, soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad. Drain and add the sliced onion to the bowl.

Step 5: Chop Fresh Mint Leaves

The fresh mint leaves bring an aromatic, cooling essence to the salad. Finely chop the mint and sprinkle it over the ingredients in the bowl. Mint complements the watermelon perfectly and enhances the overall freshness of the dish.

Step 6: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar until well combined. The olive oil provides a smooth, fruity base, while the balsamic vinegar adds a touch of sweetness and acidity. This dressing enhances the natural flavours of the salad ingredients without overpowering them.

Step 7: Combine the Salad

Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic dressing over the watermelon mixture. Using a large spoon, gently toss the salad to ensure all ingredients are coated evenly. Be careful not to overmix, as the watermelon can become too soft if handled roughly.

Step 8: Season with Salt and Pepper

Finally, add salt and pepper to taste. Since feta cheese is naturally salty, you may need only a small pinch of salt. Freshly ground black pepper complements the sweetness of the watermelon and the creaminess of the feta, giving the salad a subtle kick.

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The Lily Rose Collection

Step 9: Chill and Serve

For the best flavour, cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the salad allows the flavours to meld together, making it even more refreshing. Serve the salad chilled as a side dish, appetiser, or light meal, garnished with extra mint leaves if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Watermelon Salad

  • Choose a ripe watermelon for the best results. Look for one that feels heavy for its size, with a creamy yellow spot where it sat on the ground.
  • Use high-quality feta cheese. Greek feta made from sheep’s milk has a rich, authentic flavour that enhances the salad.
  • Add arugula or rocket leaves if you want a peppery note that adds depth to the salad.
  • Adjust the dressing to your taste. A touch more balsamic vinegar will bring out the sweetness of the watermelon, while extra olive oil will create a silkier texture.

Serving Suggestions

Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta is versatile and can be paired with a variety of main dishes. Serve it alongside grilled meats, fish, or light pasta dishes. It’s also a fantastic addition to a summer picnic spread or as a refreshing starter for an outdoor gathering.

Enjoy this simple yet flavourful Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta as a go-to recipe for warm days. Its light ingredients, fresh herbs, and contrasting textures make it an ideal choice for those seeking a healthy, tasty dish with a summery twist.

Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta

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