Description
A vibrant summer salad featuring juicy watermelon, crisp cucumber, fresh herbs, and creamy feta, all tied together with a bright honey-lime dressing. Refreshing, simple, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the salad:
- 5 cups seedless watermelon, cubed or balled
- 1 English cucumber, diced
- 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled (from a block in brine)
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- For the dressing:
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (or lemon juice)
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Pinch of kosher or sea salt
- Optional garnish:
- Extra herbs
- Aleppo pepper or chili flakes
Instructions
- Prep the produce: Cube the watermelon and cucumber. Chop the mint and basil.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together honey (or maple syrup), lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt until emulsified.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine watermelon, cucumber, and herbs. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to coat.
- Finish with cheese: Crumble feta cheese over the top. Add extra herbs or Aleppo pepper if desired.
- Serve chilled: Chill for 10–15 minutes before serving. Best enjoyed fresh.
Notes
- Watermelon Tips: Choose one with a large yellow field spot and a hollow sound when tapped. Slice off ends for stability, then cube or use a melon baller.
- Make-ahead: Cut fruit and chop herbs up to 4 hours ahead. Store dressing separately and toss all together just before serving.
- Storage: Keeps for up to 2 days in the fridge, though texture will soften.
- Substitutes: Use goat cheese or queso fresco instead of feta. Basil or cilantro can replace mint.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad, Summer Dish
- Method: No-cook, Tossed
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired, Summer
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: watermelon salad, cucumber, feta, honey lime dressing, summer salad, fresh herbs