There’s nothing quite like a juicy watermelon to kick off summer, and this watermelon fruit salad takes it to the next level. With fresh herbs and complementary fruits, it’s light, hydrating, and oh-so-pretty in the bowl. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or just treating yourself on a hot day.
I love mixing sweet and savory flavors, and this watermelon salad with feta, cucumber, and mint is a perfect example of that delightful contrast. Plus, it’s super easy to throw together when you want something quick yet satisfying. Let’s dive into this vibrant dish!
Ingredients List
– 1 small seedless watermelon
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 large cucumber
– A handful of fresh mint leaves
– Juice of 1 lime
– A pinch of salt
– Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Watermelon
Using a melon baller, scoop out balls from the watermelon until you have about 4 cups. Place them in a shallow white dish.
Step 2: Slice the Cucumber
Peel the cucumber if desired, then slice it into thin rounds. Add these to the dish with the watermelon.
Step 3: Add the Feta Cheese
Crumble the feta cheese over the watermelon and cucumber slices.
Step 4: Add Mint Leaves
Tear fresh mint leaves into smaller pieces and sprinkle them over the salad for a refreshing aroma.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Squeeze lime juice over the salad, add a pinch of salt, and some freshly cracked black pepper. Give it a gentle toss and serve immediately.
Ways to Improve It
1. Add Avocado: Introduce creamy texture by adding sliced or cubed avocado.
2. Include Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion can add a bit of zing.
3. Drizzle Balsamic Reduction: For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle some balsamic reduction over the top.
4. Add Grilled Shrimp: To turn this into a main course, add some grilled shrimp on top.
5. Use Different Melons: Mix in cantaloupe or honeydew for more variety.
Side Dishes to Serve With This Meal
This watermelon salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken or lamb. You could also serve it alongside a crusty baguette or some homemade pita bread for scooping up every last bit of goodness. If you’re looking for something lighter, try it with a simple quinoa dish or alongside cold pasta salads.
Substitutions
1. Feta Cheese: Swap with goat cheese for a milder flavor.
2. Cucumber: Use zucchini as an alternative for similar texture.
3. Mint Leaves: Substitute with basil leaves if preferred.
Recipe Variations
1. Spicy Kick: Add thinly sliced jalapeños or chili flakes for some heat.
2. Nuts Addition: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch.
3. Citrus Twist: Incorporate orange or grapefruit segments for extra citrusy notes.
4. Herbaceous Boost: Mix in some fresh cilantro alongside mint for an herby twist.
Hope you enjoy making this deliciously refreshing salad as much as I do! It’s truly a taste of summer in every bite.
