Refreshing Watermelon Salad with Feta and Mint: The Ultimate Summer Side
A cool medley of sweet, salty, and crunchy flavors that brightens any warm-weather meal.
Watermelon Salad with Feta and Mint
Summer offers an abundance of juicy fruits and crisp vegetables, but few combinations evoke the spirit of the season like a watermelon salad with feta and mint. This dish brings together the sweetness of perfectly ripe watermelon, the brininess of crumbly feta, and the invigorating brightness of fresh mint. Rounded out with crisp cucumbers and crunchy pistachios, it’s a salad that delivers an array of flavors and textures—all in one refreshing bite.
Why Watermelon Salad Shines in Summertime
When the sun is high and meals move outdoors, finding a side dish that is both energizing and easy becomes essential. Watermelon salad with feta and mint ticks every box:
- Sweet and Salty Balance: The juicy, sugary note of watermelon is the ideal counterpoint to feta’s tangy saltiness.
- Refreshing Crunch: Cucumbers add a satisfying crispness, making each mouthful even more revitalizing.
- Herbal Lift: Mint lends an aromatic quality that makes the salad unforgettable on hot days.
- Subtle Nutty Finish: Pistachios introduce a layer of richness and crunch that instantly elevates the plate.
This effortless blend transforms everyday ingredients into a side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, and vegetarian favorites.
What Is Watermelon Feta Salad Made Of?
The ingredient list is as straightforward as it gets, yet the result is delightfully sophisticated. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Watermelon: Opt for a ripe, seedless watermelon, chopped into bite-size chunks for maximal juiciness and sweetness.
- Cucumbers: Persian cucumbers are preferred for their small size and tender skin, but English cucumbers are a suitable alternative. Slice them for crunch and coolness.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta introduces a creamy saltiness. Fresh mozzarella or goat cheese can work if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Fresh Mint: Mint is essential for its distinctive aroma. Add just before serving to maintain its bright color and flavor.
- Pistachios: Roasted pistachios lend crunch and a nutty undertone. Swap in almonds or walnuts if needed.
- Dressing: The dressing is simply olive oil and vinegar (rice or white balsamic), drizzled just before serving for a light, tangy finish.
- Seasonings: Kosher salt and cracked black pepper enhance the vivid flavors of the salad.
Why Do People Eat Watermelon with Feta?
The union of sweet watermelon and salty feta is a Mediterranean-inspired classic. The two ingredients play off each other, creating a satisfying bite that’s both light and deeply flavorful. Here’s why they’re so compatible:
- Contrast: Watermelon’s high water content and sugar balance feta’s dryness and salt.
- Complexity: When paired, these flavors become more nuanced, making each ingredient taste even better.
- Visual Appeal: The bright red and white contrast looks beautiful on the table.
Additions like cucumber, mint, and nuts turn this simple pairing into an unforgettable summer side.
What’s in the Salad Dressing?
This dish is as unfussy as summer itself—so the dressing is minimal but impactful. Combine these staple ingredients:
- Olive Oil: Use extra-virgin for its fruity flavor and health benefits.
- Vinegar: Either rice vinegar or white balsamic will add lively acidity without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Salt and Pepper: Finish with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
The result: a clean, light dressing that ties everything together without masking the ingredients’ freshness.
Ingredient List
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Persian cucumbers | 5, sliced | Or use 1.5 English cucumbers |
| Seedless watermelon | 1/2 small (about 12 cups), cubed | Chop into 1-inch pieces |
| Fresh mint | 1/2 cup, divided | Chopped, reserve half for garnish |
| Kosher salt | 1/2 tsp | Or to taste |
| Black pepper | To taste | Freshly ground preferred |
| Olive oil | 1/4 cup | Extra-virgin |
| Rice vinegar or white balsamic | 1/4 cup | Choose based on your preference |
| Feta cheese | 4 oz (about 1 cup), crumbled | Or substitute goat cheese/mozzarella |
| Roasted pistachios | 1/3 cup, chopped | Optional, for crunch |
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Step-by-Step Directions
- Toss Main Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the sliced cucumbers, cubed watermelon, 1/4 cup of chopped mint, kosher salt, and a generous grind of black pepper. Gently toss to combine and distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the olive oil and vinegar over the cucumber-watermelon-mint mixture. Gently toss again, making sure all produce is evenly coated.
- Assemble to Serve: Spoon the salad onto a serving platter or bowl. Sprinkle with the crumbled feta, chopped pistachios, and remaining 1/4 cup mint. Add more black pepper if desired.
- Serve Immediately: This salad shines brightest when served fresh. If possible, enjoy within minutes of assembly for the best flavor and texture.
Tips for the Best Watermelon Salad
- Choosing the Perfect Watermelon: Look for a heavy watermelon with a creamy yellow “field spot”—a sign of ripeness. It should sound hollow when tapped.
- Avoid watermelons with bruises, dents, or shiny skins.
- Keep Mint Fresh: Add chopped mint just before serving, and sprinkle extra on top for color and aroma.
- Feta Tips: Use block feta and crumble it yourself for the richest taste and best texture. Pre-crumbled feta can be dry.
- Plating: Serve on a chilled platter to keep the salad crisp and cool longer.
- Make Ahead: Prep everything except the mint and dressing a few hours ahead. Combine just before serving.
Common Variations
- Swap the Cheese: Try creamy goat cheese or small mozzarella balls for a different flavor profile.
- Add Red Onion: A few thin slices of red onion can add sharpness and a pop of color. Soak sliced onions in ice water for 15 minutes to soften their flavor.
- Toss in Greens: Mix in arugula or baby spinach for extra nutrition and peppery flavor.
- Change the Nuts: Use toasted almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for varied crunch.
- Different Vinegars: Substitute balsamic glaze, apple cider vinegar, or lemon juice to tweak the dressing.
What to Serve with Watermelon Feta Salad
This salad is exceptionally versatile. The sweet, salty, and tangy elements pair well with a wide variety of mains and sides:
- Grilled chicken or steak
- Burgers: beef, chicken, or veggie
- Seafood: salmon or grilled shrimp
- Summer spreads: potato salad, pasta salad, grilled veggies
- Spicy barbecue dishes: helps cool the palate
Nutrition Snapshot
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Carbohydrates | 16g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 320mg |
Note: Actual values may vary depending on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Serve Fresh: Watermelon salads are best enjoyed immediately, as the fruit releases liquid quickly and the mint wilts. Dress just before eating to maintain crispness.
- Prep in Advance: You can cube watermelon and slice cucumbers up to 24 hours ahead. Store separately in airtight containers, refrigerated.
- Leftovers: Store leftover salad in the fridge for up to 1 day. Expect some extra liquid at the bottom of the container; drain before serving.
- Mint and feta both deteriorate quickly once mixed in, so add those at the last minute for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this watermelon salad ahead of time?
Yes, but for the freshest flavor and texture, wait to add the mint, feta, pistachios, and dressing until just before serving. Store the prepped ingredients in separate containers and assemble right before eating.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
Creamy goat cheese, small mozzarella balls, or even ricotta salata can be used in place of feta. Each cheese variation brings a unique taste and texture to the salad.
How do I pick a good watermelon?
A ripe watermelon should feel heavy for its size, have a pronounced “field spot” where it sat on the ground ripening (yellowish in color), and sound hollow when tapped. The outer skin should be firm and matte, not shiny.
Is this salad healthy?
Yes, this salad is packed with hydrating watermelon, protein-rich pistachios and feta, and nutrient-dense cucumbers and mint. It’s low in calories, high in water content, and provides vitamins A and C as well as potassium and antioxidants.
Can I omit the nuts?
Absolutely. Pistachios are optional and can be replaced with another nut or omitted entirely for a nut-free version.
Serving Ideas & Leftover Inspiration
- Layer leftovers over mixed greens for a next-day salad or grain bowl.
- Top grilled fish or chicken with a spoonful for an instant upgrade.
- For a light lunch, pair with a slice of crusty bread and chilled white wine.
Explore More Delicious Summer Recipes
- 15 Best Chicken Salad Recipes
- Easy Summer Wraps
- Simple Tex-Mex Caesar Salad
- Classic Tuna and Grape Salads
- Harvest-Inspired Fall Salads
This watermelon salad with feta and mint is a summer legend, beloved for its dazzling combination of flavors and textures. Serve it at your next backyard barbecue, picnic, or weeknight dinner—and prepare for it to disappear quickly!
References
- https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/a5739/watermelon-salad-feta-mint-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a32345604/watermelon-salad-with-feta-and-mint-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a60759282/watermelon-feta-orzo-salad-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g39815372/best-pioneer-woman-salad-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g65638086/fruit-salad-recipes/
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