Save A refreshing, vibrant salad featuring crisp cucumber, juicy watermelon, tangy feta, and a zesty chili-lime dressing—perfect for hot days and healthy cravings.
This salad quickly became my go-to summer dish. The combination of sweet watermelon and tangy feta always impresses guests.
Ingredients
- Seedless watermelon: 3 cups cubed
- English cucumber: 1 large diced
- Red onion: 1/4 small thinly sliced
- Jalapeño: 1 small thinly sliced optional
- Fresh mint leaves: 1/4 cup torn
- Fresh cilantro leaves: 1/4 cup
- Feta cheese: 1/3 cup crumbled
- Extra-virgin olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Lime juice and zest: from 1 lime
- Honey or agave syrup: 1 tablespoon
- Chili flakes: 1/2 teaspoon adjust to taste
- Sea salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Freshly ground black pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Combine Produce:
- In a large salad bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, diced cucumber, red onion, jalapeño if using, mint, and cilantro.
- Prepare Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lime juice and zest, honey or agave, chili flakes, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- Dress Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Add Feta:
- Sprinkle crumbled feta over the top.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, or chill for 10 minutes for extra refreshment.
Save My family enjoys gathering around this colorful salad on warm evenings, making every meal feel festive and fresh.
Notes
For added crunch, sprinkle with toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped pistachios. Substitute vegan feta for a dairy-free option.
Required Tools
Large salad bowl, small mixing bowl or jar, whisk or fork, chefs knife, cutting board.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy feta cheese. Always check cheese labels for possible allergens or cross-contamination.
Save This salad is a quick and healthy option to brighten your meal any day of the week.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can jalapeño be omitted or substituted?
Yes, jalapeño is optional and can be omitted for a milder taste. For similar flavor without heat, consider thinly sliced bell peppers or leaving it out entirely.
- → What are good variations for the cheese?
Feta cheese complements the salad's flavors well. For dairy-free options, vegan feta alternatives work nicely, or try crumbled goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- → How can I add crunch to this dish?
Adding toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped pistachios provides a pleasant crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the salad's texture.
- → Is this salad suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it appropriate for gluten-free diets without additional substitutions.
- → How long should the salad be chilled before serving?
Chilling the salad for about 10 minutes allows flavors to meld and provides a refreshing coolness, though it can be served immediately if preferred.
- → What dishes pair well with this salad?
This fresh salad pairs excellently with grilled chicken, fish, or light sandwiches, balancing savory proteins with bright, juicy flavors.