Name: Watermelon Feta Mint Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed (about 1 kg); 1/2 cup (75 g) feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup loosely packed fresh mint leaves, torn; 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 1 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1 lime); 1/4 tsp kosher salt, or to taste; 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper; Optional: 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Juicy watermelon, tangy feta, and aromatic mint come together in a vibrant salad that is both refreshing and satisfying. Ready in minutes, it requires no cooking, pairs well with grilled mains, and adds a burst of color to any table. The sweet–salty flavor contrast, crunchy-creamy texture, and cooling herbs make this dish ideal for warm-weather gatherings or light lunches.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Seedless watermelon, cut into bite-size cubes
Crumbled feta cheese
Fresh mint leaves, thinly sliced
Extra-virgin olive oil
Fresh lime (or lemon) juice
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Optional: thinly sliced red onion, cucumber chunks, balsamic glaze for drizzling

directions

Prepare the produce – Cube the chilled watermelon, crumble the feta if purchased in blocks, and chiffonade the mint leaves.
Build the base – Place watermelon cubes in a large serving bowl. Sprinkle the feta evenly over the top.
Season – Drizzle lightly with olive oil and fresh lime juice. Add a pinch of salt and a few twists of black pepper.
Finish with herbs – Scatter the mint over the salad.
Toss gently & serve – Using a rubber spatula, fold the ingredients just until combined to avoid breaking the watermelon. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate up to 30 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

Yield: About 6 cups (4–6 side-dish servings)
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: None
Total time: 15 minutes

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Expect some liquid to accumulate; drain it off and refresh with a squeeze of citrus and a few new mint leaves. Freezing is not recommended, and the salad is best enjoyed chilled—reheating is unnecessary.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Prepare the components up to 24 hours in advance, but combine them no more than 30 minutes before serving to maintain texture.

What type of feta works best?

A firm, block-style sheep’s-milk feta offers the brightest flavor and resists crumbling into mush.

Do I need seedless watermelon?

Seedless varieties save time and improve presentation, but seeded watermelon can be used if seeds are removed after cutting.

How do I keep the salad from becoming watery?

Toss just before serving and pour off any excess juice that collects at the bottom of the bowl.

Can I substitute herbs other than mint?

Yes—basil or fresh dill provide different but complementary notes.

Is there a dairy-free option?

Replace feta with diced avocado or a plant-based feta alternative for a dairy-free version.

What protein pairs well with this salad?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or seared halloumi complement the sweet-salty profile.

Can I add greens?

A bed of arugula or baby spinach transforms the dish into a heartier entrée salad.

How do I choose a ripe watermelon?

Look for a deep yellow field spot, a dull (not shiny) rind, and a hollow sound when tapped.

Is balsamic glaze necessary?

It is optional; a light drizzle adds sweetness and acidity but can be omitted for a purer flavor.

Conclusion

Watermelon Feta Mint Salad exemplifies summer cooking at its best—quick, colorful, and bursting with contrasting flavors. Whether served alongside grilled fare or enjoyed on its own, this salad delivers an elegant balance of sweet fruit, creamy cheese, and invigorating herbs in every bite.