Watermelon Salad with Feta and Cucumber

Watermelon salad is a must-make fruit salad for summer. It’s simple, refreshing, and the perfect side dish for BBQs, picnics, potlucks, and more!

Watermelon salad in a black bowl — *Photo: Gayle McLeod*

Why You’ll Love This Watermelon Salad

While a classic fruit salad is always in regular rotation on hot summer days, I often switch to making this watermelon salad when watermelon season hits. I really can’t get enough of this sweet fruit when it’s mixed with crisp cucumbers, creamy feta, and fresh mint. It’s cooling, hydrating, and the ultimate throw-together side dish. Here are a few other tidbits on why this watermelon salad is my favorite:

Fresh feta beats crumbled feta. Many recipes call for crumbled feta, but I find that slicing a fresh block of feta into cubes tastes far better and looks extra presentable on a platter.
It’s a crowd favorite for cookouts. I have a list of summer salad recipes that my friends and family love, but whenever I bring this to a summer outing (especially on the 4th of July), it’s always the first dish to disappear.
It’s a seasonal superstar. And on sale during the summer! Pro tip: If you happen to have any leftovers from an extra-large watermelon, you can always make my watermelon smoothie or grilled watermelon as well!

Watermelon Salad Recipe Ingredients

Ingredients for watermelon salad on a table

Watermelon: The key is to grab a perfectly sweet and juicy watermelon. If you need tips on how to choose one, check out the FAQ section below.
Cucumber: I’m using English cucumbers for this salad, but Persian cucumbers work well too. Just note that regular field cucumbers have thicker skin, so I recommend peeling those if you plan to use them.
Feta Cheese: A fresh block of feta is always best—just slice it into even cubes. You can also swap in goat cheese if you’re not a fan of feta.
Herbs: Mint is a classic choice for a refreshing contrast to the sweet watermelon, but basil or dill are great options too.
Dressing: A simple mix of olive oil, fresh lime juice, and honey gives this salad the bright, tangy-sweet oomph it needs.

Find the printable recipe with measurements in the recipe card below.

How To Make Watermelon Salad

Step one: Make the dressing by whisking the olive oil, lime juice, and honey in a small bowl.

Mixing a dressing for a watermelon salad.

Step two: Add the watermelon, cucumber, and mint to a large salad bowl. Then pour the dressing on top and stir together.

Step three: Leave the feta out until the end, because the more you stir it, the more it’ll break apart. If you’re not concerned with cubes of feta, you can, of course, opt for feta crumbles. If you do so, I’d probably use half the amount.

Common Questions

How do I choose a ripe watermelon?

When choosing a ripe watermelon, I start by looking for one with a uniform, symmetrical shape. Avoid any with odd bumps or irregularities, which can indicate uneven ripening. The color should be a deep green rather than a pale or lime green shade. A creamy yellow spot on one side is actually a good sign—it shows the watermelon had time to ripen in the field. Lastly, I give it a tap or flick with my fingers. A ripe watermelon will sound deep and hollow, indicating it’s juicy and ready to eat!

Can I make watermelon salad ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components up to 24 hours in advance. Store cut watermelon and cucumber separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Then, add the delicate ingredients like the feta and herbs just before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.

How long does watermelon salad last in the fridge?

If you have any leftovers, you can store them for 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Just keep in mind that the dressing might water down the salad a bit.

More Summer Salad Recipes

If you make this watermelon salad recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out in the comment box below! Your review will help other readers in the community. And if you’re hungry for more healthy food inspiration and exclusive content, join my free newsletter here.

Description

Simple, refreshing, and sweet, this watermelon salad is a true crowd favorite for summer!

Storage tip: If you have any leftovers, you can store them for 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Just keep in mind that the dressing might water down the salad a bit.

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Recipe originally posted July 2016, but updated with new photos and information for your benefit!