Name: Watermelon Feta Salad
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: Main Ingredients:; 4 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon); 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (or cubed block feta); 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, torn or chopped; Dressing:; 1–2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh lime or lemon juice; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Optional Add-ins:; 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion; 1/2 cup arugula or baby spinach; Balsamic glaze, for drizzling; Chopped cucumber; Toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds; Fresh basil leaves (as a substitute or addition to mint)

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This refreshing and vibrant 5-Minute Watermelon Feta Salad is the perfect side dish to bring a burst of flavor to any meal. With sweet, juicy watermelon paired with creamy feta and aromatic mint, it’s a quick, no-cook salad that’s full of Mediterranean flair.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Watermelon Feta Salad is a crowd-pleaser with its bright colors, bold flavors, and simple preparation. The combination of sweet watermelon, salty feta, and refreshing mint creates a perfect balance of tastes that’s light yet satisfying. Plus, it only takes five minutes to prepare, making it a great choice for busy days or last-minute gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a side dish to complement your main course, this salad is versatile, and you can easily customize it with your favorite add-ins.
Watermelon Feta Salad

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (or cubed block feta)
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, torn or chopped

Dressing

1–2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lime or lemon juice
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-ins

1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
1/2 cup arugula or baby spinach
Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Chopped cucumber
Toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds
Fresh basil leaves (as a substitute or addition to mint)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Watermelon: Cut the seedless watermelon into bite-sized cubes, removing any seeds if present. Place the cubes in a large mixing bowl.
Add Feta and Mint: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped or torn mint leaves over the watermelon pieces in the bowl.
Whisk the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime or lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and black pepper until well combined.
Toss the Salad: Drizzle the dressing evenly over the watermelon, feta, and mint. Gently toss everything together, taking care not to break up the watermelon cubes or crumble the feta too much.
Chill or Serve: You can serve the salad right away, or cover and chill it in the refrigerator for 15–30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to become extra refreshing.
Garnish and Enjoy: Just before serving, add any optional garnishes such as a drizzle of balsamic glaze, extra mint leaves, or any other preferred add-ins for extra flavor and presentation.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

Add Nuts for Crunch: Toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds can give this salad a delightful crunch.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Herb Substitution: You can swap mint for basil, or even use a mix of both herbs for an aromatic twist.
Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to turn this salad into a main dish.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the watermelon may release some moisture over time, but the flavors will still be delicious. If you plan on storing it, consider adding the dressing and mint just before serving to keep everything crisp.
Watermelon Feta Salad

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to add the mint and dressing just before serving to maintain freshness.

Can I use block feta instead of crumbled feta?

Yes, you can use cubed block feta. It will add a slightly firmer texture to the salad.

What other fruits can I add to this salad?

You can experiment with fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or mango for added sweetness and color.

Is this recipe vegan?

No, this recipe contains feta cheese, which is dairy-based. You can substitute with a vegan feta if you want a dairy-free version.

Can I use a different type of melon instead of watermelon?

Yes, cantaloupe or honeydew melon would also work well in this salad. Choose a melon that is sweet and juicy.

What can I serve this salad with?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or as a light side for pasta dishes.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

How do I make this salad more filling?

To make it more filling, you can add grains like quinoa, couscous, or a protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas.

Can I add other greens to the salad?

Yes, arugula or spinach would add extra flavor and nutrition to the salad.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this Watermelon Feta Salad is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

This 5-Minute Watermelon Feta Salad is the epitome of simple, healthy, and delicious. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ, enjoying it as a light lunch, or pairing it with your favorite Mediterranean dishes, it’s sure to be a hit. The combination of watermelon, feta, and mint, complemented by a tangy dressing, offers a burst of flavors that are both refreshing and satisfying. Try it today for a quick, flavorful salad that everyone will love!