Watermelon Feta Salad Is Very Refreshing
On a hot summer day, nothing beats the refreshing combination of sweet watermelon, tangy feta, and fresh mint. This Watermelon Feta Salad is perfect for those scorching afternoons when you crave something light and hydrating. The juicy watermelon bursts with flavor, while the salty feta adds a delicious contrast. This salad comes together in minutes, and I love making it just before serving for the best taste and texture. It’s a go-to side dish for barbecues, picnics, or even a quick afternoon snack, and it’s a favorite at every gathering.
Did You Know?
Watermelon is an excellent source of hydration due to its high water content, which makes it incredibly refreshing in hot weather. Pairing it with feta cheese provides a savory, salty contrast that enhances the watermelon’s sweetness. Plus, watermelon is packed with antioxidants like vitamin C and lycopene, which are great for your skin and overall health.
Yield:
4 Servings
Ingredients:
- 4 cups watermelon, cubed
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Ingredients:
Cube the watermelon and crumble the feta cheese. Chop the fresh mint leaves.
Personal Tip: I always chill the watermelon for at least 30 minutes before preparing this salad for an extra-cold, refreshing bite.
Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, crumbled feta, and chopped mint leaves.
Personal Tip: Don’t let the salad sit too long before serving, as the watermelon can release too much water and soften the feta.
Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the olive oil and lime juice over the salad. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
Personal Tip: For a more intense citrus flavor, add a bit of lime zest to the salad.
Serve:
Serve immediately for the freshest taste.
Personal Tip: This salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or fish for a light summer meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 150 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 12g | Sugars: 9g | Total Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Sodium: 250mg | Fiber: 1g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
- Choosing the Best Watermelon: Look for watermelons with a large yellow patch on their rind—this indicates that they spent more time ripening on the vine and will be sweeter.
- Avoid Soggy Salad: To avoid excess liquid, prepare this salad just before serving. If you make it ahead of time, store the watermelon and dressing separately and combine right before serving.
- Fresh Mint Options: If mint isn’t available, try using fresh basil or arugula for a different twist. Both add a fresh, peppery flavor to the salad.
- Feta Substitutes: If you don’t have feta, goat cheese works well as a substitute, providing a similar tangy flavor.
- Budget-Friendly Tips: Buy whole watermelons instead of pre-cut chunks for more savings. You can use the leftover watermelon for smoothies or as a snack.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad is a great side dish for summer barbecues or picnics. It pairs well with grilled meats like chicken or lamb.
- Store Leftover Watermelon: If you have leftover watermelon, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best eaten within 2 days.
- Adding More Flavor: For extra zing, sprinkle a little balsamic glaze over the salad just before serving. The sweetness of the glaze complements the watermelon beautifully.
- Presentation: Serve the salad in a hollowed-out watermelon bowl for a fun and festive presentation at parties or gatherings.
- Health Benefits: Watermelon is not only hydrating but also rich in vitamins A and C, making it great for skin health and boosting your immune system.
Let’s Learn About Watermelons
Watermelons are grown on trailing vines that can stretch across fields, producing large, juicy fruits in the summer. These refreshing fruits thrive in warm, sunny conditions and need plenty of water to grow properly. While watermelons are generally not heavily sprayed, it's still a good idea to wash the rind before cutting to remove any dirt or potential chemicals. Interestingly, watermelons come in different varieties, including seedless, yellow-fleshed, and miniature versions, each offering its own unique flavor and texture.
Watermelons are naturally low in calories and packed with nutrients, including lycopene, an antioxidant that may support heart health. When selecting a watermelon, look for one that is heavy for its size and has a dull skin, which indicates ripeness. Whether sliced for snacking or diced for salads, watermelons are a delicious and hydrating addition to any summer meal.