It’s funny how some of the simplest dishes can become absolute staples in your culinary repertoire. This Watermelon Salad with Feta is a perfect example. Last summer, seeking a refreshing escape from the heat, I stumbled upon this recipe. Honestly, I was a little skeptical at first – watermelon and feta? It sounded… intriguing. But with a fridge full of ripe watermelon and a block of feta calling my name, I decided to give it a whirl. Let me tell you, it was a revelation. The first bite was an explosion of flavors and textures: the juicy sweetness of the watermelon, the salty tang of the feta, the crisp bite of red onion, and the fresh herbaceousness of mint, all brought together by a bright, zesty dressing. It was an instant hit with my family. My kids, who are usually picky eaters, devoured it. My husband, a self-proclaimed salad skeptic, asked for seconds. Since then, this Watermelon Salad with Feta has become our go-to summer side dish. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is always a crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for a salad that’s both delicious and invigorating, look no further. This recipe is a guaranteed winner, perfect for barbecues, picnics, or simply a light and satisfying lunch on a hot day. Prepare to be surprised by how perfectly these seemingly disparate ingredients harmonize to create a truly unforgettable salad experience.

Ingredients

Creating the perfect Watermelon Salad with Feta is all about using high-quality, fresh ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the symphony of flavors and textures that make this salad so irresistible. Let’s delve into each ingredient, exploring why it’s essential and offering tips for selecting the best:

Watermelon: The star of the show, watermelon provides the sweet, juicy base for this salad. When choosing a watermelon, look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a deep, resonant sound when you thump it. A consistent, yellow ground spot (where the melon rested on the ground) is also a good indicator of ripeness. For this salad, seedless watermelon is the most convenient option, but seeded watermelon works just as well – just be prepared to remove the seeds. The type of watermelon can also influence the flavor profile. Crimson Sweet watermelons offer a classic sweet taste, while Sugar Baby watermelons are known for their intense sweetness and smaller size, perfect for single servings or smaller gatherings. Consider experimenting with different varieties to discover your personal favorite for this salad. Beyond the taste, watermelon is incredibly hydrating, making this salad a perfect choice for hot summer days. It’s packed with vitamins A and C, and also contains antioxidants like lycopene, which is known for its potential health benefits.
Feta Cheese: Feta provides the salty, tangy counterpoint to the watermelon’s sweetness. It’s crucial to use good quality feta for the best flavor. Look for feta that is stored in brine, as this keeps it moist and flavorful. Greek feta, made from sheep’s milk or a mixture of sheep and goat’s milk, is considered the most authentic and has a richer, more complex flavor than feta made from cow’s milk. When selecting feta, consider the texture you prefer. Some feta is crumbly and dry, while others are creamier and smoother. For this salad, a slightly crumbly feta works well, allowing it to distribute evenly and provide bursts of salty flavor throughout. Don’t be tempted to use pre-crumbled feta, as it often lacks flavor and can be dry. Instead, buy a block of feta and crumble it yourself just before adding it to the salad. Feta is also a good source of calcium and protein, adding nutritional value to this refreshing salad.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a welcome sharpness and bite to the salad, balancing the sweetness of the watermelon and the saltiness of the feta. Red onion is milder than yellow or white onions and offers a slightly sweet and peppery flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. When selecting red onion, choose one that is firm and has a vibrant red color. To mellow the sharpness of the red onion and make it even more palatable in the salad, you can soak the thinly sliced onion in ice water for about 10-15 minutes before adding it to the salad. This process helps to reduce the sulfur compounds that cause the onion’s pungent flavor. Alternatively, you can quickly pickle the red onion by tossing it in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and salt for a few minutes. This adds a slightly sweet and tangy element to the onion, further enhancing its flavor profile in the salad.
Fresh Mint: Fresh mint is the herbaceous element that brings a refreshing coolness to the salad. Its bright, slightly sweet, and minty flavor elevates the entire dish and complements both the watermelon and feta perfectly. Use fresh mint leaves for the best flavor; dried mint is not a suitable substitute in this recipe. Look for mint that is vibrant green and has perky leaves. Avoid mint that is wilted or has brown spots. To prepare the mint, gently pluck the leaves from the stems and roughly chop them. Avoid chopping the mint too finely, as this can bruise the leaves and release bitter flavors. Mint is not only flavorful but also adds a touch of visual appeal to the salad. Its vibrant green color contrasts beautifully with the red watermelon and white feta. Beyond its flavor and visual appeal, mint also has digestive properties and can help to freshen breath, making this salad a refreshing and healthy choice.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil is essential for the dressing. It adds richness, flavor, and helps to bind the ingredients together. Extra virgin olive oil has a fruity, slightly peppery flavor that complements the other ingredients in the salad perfectly. When choosing olive oil, look for one that is cold-pressed and has a robust flavor. The quality of the olive oil will significantly impact the overall taste of the salad, so it’s worth investing in a good one. Store your olive oil in a cool, dark place to maintain its quality and flavor. Olive oil is also a source of healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, contributing to the nutritional benefits of this salad.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides the acidity that brightens the flavors of the salad and balances the sweetness of the watermelon and richness of the olive oil. Fresh lemon juice is far superior to bottled lemon juice in terms of flavor and freshness. When selecting lemons, choose ones that are heavy for their size and have a bright yellow color. To get the most juice out of your lemons, roll them firmly on the countertop before squeezing. Lemon juice not only adds flavor but also helps to prevent the watermelon from oxidizing and browning. It also adds a dose of vitamin C to the salad.
Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Salt and freshly ground black pepper are essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors in the salad. Use sea salt or kosher salt for the best flavor. Freshly ground black pepper has a much more vibrant and aromatic flavor than pre-ground pepper. Season the salad to taste, starting with a pinch of salt and pepper and adding more as needed. Remember that feta is already salty, so you may not need to add too much additional salt. Taste the salad after adding the dressing and adjust the seasoning accordingly. Proper seasoning is key to bringing all the flavors together and making this salad truly delicious.

Instructions

Crafting this Watermelon Salad with Feta is incredibly straightforward, making it a perfect recipe for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. The beauty lies in its simplicity, yet the resulting flavors are anything but ordinary. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a salad that’s both refreshing and impressive:

Prepare the Watermelon: Begin by preparing the watermelon. If using a whole watermelon, cut it in half and then into slices. Remove the rind and cut the watermelon into bite-sized cubes, about 1-inch in size. Aim for uniform cubes for a visually appealing salad and even distribution of flavor. If you prefer, you can use a melon baller to create watermelon balls for a more elegant presentation. Place the cubed watermelon in a large bowl. If using seeded watermelon, make sure to remove all the seeds before cubing. Consider chilling the cubed watermelon in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before assembling the salad. This will enhance the refreshing quality of the salad, especially on a hot day.
Prepare the Red Onion: Next, prepare the red onion. Peel the red onion and cut it in half. Thinly slice one half of the red onion into very thin half-moons. The key is to slice the onion thinly so that it provides a pleasant bite without overpowering the other flavors. As mentioned earlier, to mellow the sharpness of the red onion, you can soak the sliced onion in ice water for 10-15 minutes or quickly pickle it in a vinegar mixture. Drain the red onion thoroughly if you have soaked it in ice water. Add the thinly sliced red onion to the bowl with the cubed watermelon.
Prepare the Feta Cheese: Now, prepare the feta cheese. If you have a block of feta, crumble it into the bowl with the watermelon and red onion. Aim for a coarse crumble, rather than very fine pieces, so that you get satisfying chunks of feta in each bite. Alternatively, you can cube the feta cheese if you prefer a more uniform texture in the salad. Add the crumbled or cubed feta to the bowl.
Prepare the Fresh Mint: Prepare the fresh mint. Rinse the mint leaves under cold water and pat them dry. Pluck the mint leaves from the stems. Roughly chop the mint leaves. Add the chopped fresh mint to the bowl with the other ingredients. Reserve a few whole mint leaves for garnishing the salad, if desired.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice. Whisk until the dressing is emulsified and slightly thickened. Season the dressing with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of salt and pepper and adjust according to your preference. Remember that feta is already salty, so be mindful of the amount of salt you add. You can also add a pinch of sugar or honey to the dressing to balance the acidity, if desired, but it’s usually not necessary given the sweetness of the watermelon.
Dress and Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the watermelon, feta, red onion, and mint in the large bowl. Gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients and evenly coat them with the dressing. Be careful not to over-mix the salad, as this can cause the watermelon to break down and become mushy. A gentle toss is all that’s needed to combine everything.
Chill and Serve: For the best flavor and texture, chill the Watermelon Salad with Feta in the refrigerator for at least 15-30 minutes before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to become even more refreshing. However, you can serve it immediately if you are short on time. Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss to redistribute the dressing. Garnish the salad with the reserved whole mint leaves, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of refreshing flavors!

Nutrition Facts

This Watermelon Salad with Feta is not only a delight to the taste buds but also a relatively healthy and nutritious choice, especially for a light meal or side dish. Here’s a general overview of the nutritional information:

Servings: Approximately 6 servings

Calories per Serving: Roughly 150-200 calories per serving (This is an estimate and can vary based on portion size and specific ingredient quantities and types, particularly the amount of feta and olive oil used).

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per Serving (estimated):

Calories: 150-200 kcal
Protein: 5-7 grams
Fat: 10-15 grams (primarily from olive oil and feta, mostly healthy fats)
- Saturated Fat: 3-5 grams (from feta)
Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
- Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugar: 8-12 grams (naturally occurring sugars from watermelon)
Sodium: 200-300 mg (primarily from feta and added salt)

Key Nutritional Highlights:

Hydrating: Watermelon is about 92% water, making this salad incredibly hydrating, especially beneficial during warm weather.
Vitamins and Minerals: Watermelon is a good source of Vitamin A and Vitamin C. Feta provides calcium.
Antioxidants: Watermelon contains lycopene, an antioxidant linked to various health benefits. Olive oil is rich in antioxidants and healthy monounsaturated fats.
Relatively Low in Calories: For a flavorful and satisfying salad, it’s relatively low in calories, making it a good option for those watching their calorie intake.
Good Source of Healthy Fats: The olive oil contributes healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
Moderate Sodium: While feta contributes sodium, the overall sodium content is moderate compared to many processed foods.

Important Notes:

Portion Control: Nutritional values are per serving, so be mindful of portion sizes to manage calorie and nutrient intake.
Ingredient Variations: Using different types of feta (e.g., reduced-fat feta) or adjusting the amount of olive oil will affect the nutritional content.
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients ensures you maximize the nutritional benefits and flavor of the salad.
This is an estimate: For precise nutritional information, you can use online nutritional calculators or apps, inputting the exact quantities and brands of ingredients you use.

Overall, Watermelon Salad with Feta is a delicious and reasonably healthy salad that provides hydration, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, making it a great addition to a balanced diet, especially during the summer months.

Preparation Time

One of the many advantages of Watermelon Salad with Feta is its quick and easy preparation. It’s a perfect recipe when you need a delicious and refreshing dish in a hurry. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation time:

Total Preparation Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes

Breakdown:

Watermelon Preparation (cubing/balling): 5-7 minutes
- This includes washing the watermelon, cutting it, removing the rind (if necessary), and cubing or balling the watermelon. Using pre-cut watermelon can reduce this time significantly.
Red Onion Preparation (slicing): 2-3 minutes
- Peeling and thinly slicing the red onion is a quick step. Soaking or pickling the onion adds a few minutes but is optional.
Feta Preparation (crumbling/cubing): 2-3 minutes
- Crumbling or cubing feta is also a very fast task.
Mint Preparation (chopping): 2-3 minutes
- Rinsing, plucking, and roughly chopping the mint leaves is quick and easy.
Dressing Preparation (whisking): 1-2 minutes
- Whisking together the olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings takes very little time.
Assembling and Tossing: 2-3 minutes
- Combining all the ingredients in a bowl, adding the dressing, and gently tossing to combine.

Optional Chilling Time:

Chilling Time (recommended): 15-30 minutes (or longer)
- While the active preparation time is short, chilling the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15-30 minutes is recommended to enhance the flavors and make it more refreshing. This chilling time is passive, meaning you don’t need to actively work on the salad during this time.

Tips to Speed Up Preparation:

Use Pre-Cut Watermelon: If you are really short on time, you can purchase pre-cut watermelon cubes from the grocery store to save time on watermelon preparation.
Prepare Ingredients Ahead: You can chop the red onion and mint, and crumble the feta ahead of time and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble the salad. The dressing can also be made ahead and stored at room temperature.
Skip Soaking/Pickling Onion: If you don’t have time to soak or pickle the red onion, you can skip this step. The salad will still be delicious, just with a slightly sharper onion flavor.

Overall Time Commitment:

Even with chilling time, the active time spent preparing this Watermelon Salad with Feta is minimal. It’s a fantastic choice for a last-minute side dish or a quick and healthy lunch. The short preparation time, combined with the incredible flavor and refreshing qualities, makes this recipe a true winner for any occasion.

How to Serve

Watermelon Salad with Feta is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, making it a fantastic addition to numerous occasions and meals. Its refreshing nature and vibrant flavors make it a perfect choice for warm weather gatherings and casual meals. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful salad:

As a Side Dish:

Barbecues and Cookouts: Watermelon Salad with Feta is an ideal side dish for barbecues, picnics, and cookouts. Its refreshing taste complements grilled meats, burgers, and hot dogs perfectly. It offers a light and flavorful contrast to heavier barbecue fare.
Summer Dinners: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp for a light and healthy summer dinner. It pairs beautifully with Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Potlucks and Gatherings: It’s a crowd-pleasing salad that travels well and is always a hit at potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings. Its vibrant colors and refreshing taste make it stand out on a buffet table.
Brunch or Lunch: This salad is a refreshing and light option for brunch or lunch, especially on a warm day. It can be served on its own or alongside sandwiches or wraps.

As an Appetizer:

Small Plates or Starters: Serve smaller portions of the salad in appetizer bowls or on small plates as a refreshing starter before a meal.
Skewered Salad Bites: Thread watermelon cubes, feta cubes, and mint leaves onto skewers for a fun and elegant appetizer presentation. Drizzle with the dressing just before serving.

Serving Suggestions & Presentation:

Chilled: Always serve Watermelon Salad with Feta chilled for the most refreshing and enjoyable experience.
Garnish: Garnish with fresh mint leaves, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper for added visual appeal and flavor.
Serving Bowls: Use a beautiful serving bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the salad. A clear glass bowl works particularly well.
Individual Servings: For a more elegant presentation, serve the salad in individual bowls or ramekins.
Pair with Balsamic Glaze (Optional): For an extra layer of flavor, consider drizzling a balsamic glaze over the salad just before serving. The sweet and tangy balsamic glaze adds a delightful complexity.
Add a Grain (Optional): For a more substantial salad, you can add cooked quinoa, farro, or couscous to the Watermelon Salad with Feta. This turns it into a heartier salad that can be a light meal on its own.
Pair with Other Salads: Serve it alongside other summer salads like a Caprese salad, cucumber salad, or tomato salad for a colorful and refreshing salad platter.

Drinks to Pair With:

White Wine: Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or dry Rosé pair wonderfully with the refreshing flavors of the salad.
Sparkling Water or Lemonade: For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or homemade lemonade are excellent choices.
Iced Tea: Unsweetened iced tea or herbal iced teas like mint or green tea also complement the salad well.

By considering these serving suggestions, you can elevate your Watermelon Salad with Feta and make it a star dish for any occasion. Its versatility and refreshing taste ensure it will be a welcome addition to your summer menus.

Additional Tips

To truly master and elevate your Watermelon Salad with Feta, consider these five additional tips that can enhance the flavor, texture, and overall experience of this delightful dish:

Salt Your Watermelon (Judiciously): A secret to unlocking the full sweetness of watermelon is to lightly salt it. Just a tiny pinch of salt sprinkled over the cubed watermelon about 10-15 minutes before assembling the salad can make a significant difference. Salt helps to draw out the natural sweetness of the watermelon and intensifies its flavor. However, be very careful not to over-salt, as too much salt will have the opposite effect and make the salad unpleasantly salty. Remember that feta is already salty, so use salt sparingly, especially when pre-salting the watermelon. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning carefully.
Toast Your Nuts (Optional but Recommended): While not traditionally included in Watermelon Salad with Feta, adding toasted nuts can introduce a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Consider adding toasted pine nuts, almonds (slivered or sliced), or pecans. To toast nuts, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until lightly golden and fragrant. Alternatively, you can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until fragrant. Let the nuts cool completely before adding them to the salad to maintain their crispness. Adding toasted nuts not only enhances the texture but also adds a layer of complexity to the flavor profile.
Experiment with Herbs: While fresh mint is the classic herb for Watermelon Salad with Feta, don’t be afraid to experiment with other fresh herbs to create different flavor nuances. Fresh basil is an excellent alternative or addition to mint. Its slightly peppery and sweet flavor pairs wonderfully with watermelon and feta. You can also try adding a touch of fresh oregano or even dill for a more herbaceous and complex flavor profile. When experimenting with herbs, start with a small amount and taste as you go to ensure the flavors are balanced and harmonious. Chopping the herbs just before adding them to the salad will maximize their fresh aroma and flavor.
Marinate Your Feta (Optional): For an even more flavorful feta, consider marinating it briefly before adding it to the salad. You can marinate feta cubes in a mixture of olive oil, lemon zest, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and some fresh herbs like thyme or oregano. Marinating the feta for about 30 minutes to an hour allows it to absorb the flavors of the marinade, making it even more delicious and adding an extra layer of complexity to the salad. Marinated feta becomes softer and creamier, which can also enhance the texture of the salad. If you choose to marinate the feta, you can use the marinade itself as part of the salad dressing, adjusting the amount of fresh olive oil and lemon juice accordingly.
Don’t Dress Too Far in Advance: Watermelon is quite juicy, and when dressed too far in advance, the salad can become watery as the watermelon releases its juices. For the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to dress the Watermelon Salad with Feta shortly before serving, ideally within 30 minutes to an hour. If you are preparing the salad ahead of time, you can prepare all the components – cube the watermelon, slice the red onion, crumble the feta, and chop the mint – and store them separately in the refrigerator. Make the dressing separately and store it at room temperature. When you are ready to serve, combine all the components in a bowl, add the dressing, toss gently, and serve immediately or chill briefly for 15-30 minutes. This will ensure that your salad is perfectly fresh, flavorful, and has the best possible texture.

By incorporating these additional tips, you can take your Watermelon Salad with Feta to the next level, creating a truly exceptional and memorable dish that will impress your family and friends and become a summer staple in your kitchen.

FAQ Section

Here are five frequently asked questions about Watermelon Salad with Feta, addressing common queries and providing helpful tips to ensure your salad is perfect every time:

Q1: Can I make Watermelon Salad with Feta ahead of time?

A: While you can prepare the individual components of Watermelon Salad with Feta ahead of time, it’s best to assemble and dress the salad shortly before serving, ideally within 30 minutes to an hour. Watermelon releases juices when dressed, and if dressed too far in advance, the salad can become watery and lose its crisp texture.

Tip: You can cube the watermelon, slice the red onion, crumble the feta, and chop the mint ahead of time and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Make the dressing separately and store it at room temperature. When ready to serve, combine all components, dress, and toss gently. Chilling the assembled salad for 15-30 minutes before serving enhances the flavor and refreshment.

Q2: I don’t like feta cheese. Is there a good substitute?

A: If you’re not a fan of feta, there are a few alternatives you can try, although they will slightly alter the flavor profile of the salad.

Goat Cheese (Chèvre): A soft, fresh goat cheese offers a tangy and creamy alternative to feta. Choose a mild goat cheese for a similar flavor balance.
Halloumi Cheese (Grilled or Pan-Fried): For a different texture and flavor dimension, try grilling or pan-frying halloumi cheese and adding it to the salad. Halloumi is a salty cheese that holds its shape when cooked and provides a pleasant chewiness.
Mozzarella (Fresh): Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) can offer a milder and creamier alternative, although they lack the saltiness and tang of feta.
Ricotta Salata: This is a salted, pressed ricotta cheese that can be crumbled like feta and provides a salty and slightly nutty flavor.

While these substitutes can work, remember that feta’s distinct salty and tangy flavor is a key component of this salad.

Q3: Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

A: Yes, you can definitely add other vegetables to Watermelon Salad with Feta to enhance its flavor, texture, and nutritional value. Some excellent additions include:

Cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch and mild flavor. English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are great choices.
Bell Peppers (Red, Yellow, or Orange): Provide sweetness and a crisp texture.
Cherry Tomatoes or Grape Tomatoes: Add sweetness and juiciness. Halve or quarter them before adding.
Avocado: For creaminess and healthy fats. Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
Spinach or Arugula: A bed of baby spinach or arugula can add leafy greens and peppery notes to the salad.

When adding vegetables, consider how they complement the existing flavors and textures of the salad.

Q4: What if my red onion is too strong?

A: Red onion can sometimes be quite pungent. If you find the flavor too strong, there are a few ways to mellow it:

Soak in Ice Water: Thinly sliced red onion can be soaked in ice water for 10-15 minutes. This helps to reduce the sulfur compounds that cause the onion’s sharpness. Drain thoroughly before adding to the salad.
Quick Pickle: Quickly pickle the sliced red onion by tossing it in a mixture of vinegar (like red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar), sugar, and salt for a few minutes. This adds a sweet and tangy element and mellows the raw onion flavor.
Use Shallots: Shallots are milder and sweeter than red onions and can be used as a substitute for a less pungent flavor.

Q5: Can I make this salad vegan?

A: To make Watermelon Salad vegan, the primary adjustment is to replace the feta cheese. Here are some vegan alternatives:

Vegan Feta: There are several brands of vegan feta available made from ingredients like tofu, almond, or coconut oil. These can mimic the salty and crumbly texture of feta.
Marinated Tofu: Cubes of firm or extra-firm tofu marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and herbs can provide a savory and slightly tangy element.
Roasted Chickpeas: Roasted chickpeas seasoned with salt, pepper, and herbs can offer a crunchy and savory element to replace the feta’s texture and some of its flavor profile.
Avocado (Increased Amount): While not a direct feta substitute, increasing the amount of avocado can add creaminess and healthy fats that can make the salad more satisfying without cheese.

When making a vegan version, consider adjusting the dressing to ensure it complements the chosen feta substitute. You might need to add a bit more salt or acidity depending on the vegan feta alternative you use.