Description
This refreshing Watermelon Salad with Feta & Mint is a perfect summer side dish that combines the sweetness of juicy watermelon with salty feta cheese, crisp cucumber, and fresh mint. Finished with a zesty lime and garlic dressing, this salad offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that’s quick to prepare and ideal for hot days.
Ingredients
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- ½ garlic clove, minced
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
Salad
- 5 cups cubed watermelon
- Heaping 1 cup diced English cucumber
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 avocado, cubed
- ⅓ cup torn fresh mint or basil leaves
- ½ jalapeño or serrano pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
- Sea salt, to taste
Instructions
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, and sea salt until well combined to create a tangy and flavorful dressing.
- Prepare the salad base: On a large plate or serving platter, arrange the cubed watermelon, diced English cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion evenly to form the salad’s fresh and crisp foundation.
- Add dressing and toppings: Drizzle half of the prepared dressing over the arranged salad ingredients, then top with crumbled feta cheese, cubed avocado, torn fresh mint leaves (or basil), and thinly sliced jalapeño or serrano pepper if using for a hint of heat.
- Finish and serve: Drizzle the remaining dressing over the salad, season with additional sea salt to taste if needed, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For added freshness, chill watermelon and cucumber before preparing.
- Adjust jalapeño or serrano pepper quantity according to desired spiciness or omit for a milder salad.
- Swap basil for mint to change flavor profile slightly.
- This salad is best served immediately to keep watermelon crisp and fresh.
- To make it vegan, substitute feta with a plant-based cheese alternative.
