Description
A refreshing watermelon salad with crisp cucumbers, fragrant fresh mint and basil, topped with tangy crumbled feta cheese and a sweet lime-honey dressing. Perfect for a light summer side dish or appetizer, this vibrant salad comes together in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 to 2 tablespoons quality extra virgin olive oil
- Pinch of salt
Salad
- 1/2 watermelon, peeled and cut into cubes
- 1 English or Hot House cucumber, cubed (about 2 cupfuls)
- 15 fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 15 fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (more to your liking)
Instructions
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt until well combined. Set the dressing aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the salad: In a large bowl or serving platter with sides, combine the cubed watermelon, cubed cucumbers, and the chopped fresh mint and basil leaves. Toss gently to distribute the herbs evenly throughout the fruit.
- Finish and serve: Pour the dressing over the watermelon and cucumber mixture. Gently toss the salad to coat everything with the dressing without bruising the fruit. Finally, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use a ripe, sweet watermelon for the best flavor contrast with the feta cheese.
- Adjust honey and lime juice amounts to taste for more or less sweetness and acidity.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the dressing.
- This salad is best served fresh; avoid making it too far in advance to prevent the watermelon from becoming watery.
- Optionally garnish with extra fresh herbs or a squeeze of extra lime before serving.
