Name: Easy Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint and Cucumber
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 4 cups cubed watermelon (about 1/4 of a medium watermelon); 1 large cucumber, diced; 6 oz feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; Optional: 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts; Optional: 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; Optional: 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’ve ever had a watermelon sitting on your kitchen counter, begging to be used, then you know the feeling of scrambling for the perfect recipe. That’s exactly what happened to me last summer when I spotted a huge watermelon and remembered the amazing watermelon feta salad I had at a Greek restaurant years ago. The combination of sweet, juicy watermelon with salty feta and fresh mint was a game changer, and since then, I’ve been recreating it at every opportunity. This watermelon feta salad with mint and cucumber is incredibly easy to make, but it always seems to impress. Whether for a backyard barbecue or a light summer dinner, it’s the perfect refreshing dish to bring to the table.

Easy Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint and Cucumber

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this watermelon feta salad because it’s everything I crave in a summer dish—refreshing, light, and just a little bit indulgent. The watermelon provides the perfect balance of sweetness and juiciness, while the feta cheese adds a salty richness that perfectly complements the fresh cucumber and mint. Plus, the best part is that it’s a super easy dish to make that gets even better as it sits. It’s ideal for those moments when you need a dish that you can prepare ahead of time, and it works for a variety of occasions, from casual dinners to elegant parties. If you want to add a little extra texture, you can toss in some pine nuts or a few slivers of red onion for a little bite.

Ingredients

4 cups cubed watermelon (about 1/4 of a medium watermelon)
1 large cucumber, diced
6 oz feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Optional additions:

2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts for extra crunch
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced for a bit of bite
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped alongside the mint

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prep the watermelon: Cut the watermelon into bite-sized cubes (about 3/4-inch pieces). To avoid watery salad, place the cubed watermelon in a fine-mesh strainer and let it drain for about 10 minutes to remove excess liquid.
Prepare the cucumber: Dice the cucumber into pieces that are roughly the same size as the watermelon cubes. If you’re using regular cucumbers, you can scoop out the seeds if they seem too tough or seedy.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, and kosher salt. This dressing is simple but essential for brightening up the salad and bringing all the flavors together.
Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, gently combine the watermelon, cucumber, and crumbled feta. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to avoid breaking up the feta too much. Add the chopped mint and toss one more time to evenly distribute everything.
Let it marinate: For the best flavor, let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and gives the watermelon a chance to absorb the tangy goodness of the feta and dressing.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 4 servings, depending on portion size. It takes approximately 10 minutes to prepare, with an additional 15-30 minutes for marinating. I recommend making it about 15 minutes to 2 hours before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Variations

If you’re in the mood for a twist, you can try adding the following to the salad:

Pine nuts: Toasted pine nuts bring an extra crunch and richness.
Red onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp bite that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the watermelon.
Basil: Chopped fresh basil alongside mint enhances the herbal notes of the salad.
Arugula or rocket: For a peppery addition, you can toss in some fresh arugula to make the salad feel even more substantial.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best served fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, watermelon tends to lose its texture over time, so it’s best enjoyed within a few hours of making it. If you do need to store leftovers, be sure to drain any excess liquid before refrigerating. It won’t need reheating as it’s meant to be served cold, but if you prefer a chilled version, keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy.

FAQs

How do I pick the perfect watermelon for this salad?

Look for a watermelon that sounds hollow when thumped and feels heavy for its size. The skin should have a matte finish, not shiny. A yellow spot on the bottom indicates it’s ripened on the ground, and a creamy yellow spot (not white) is a great sign of sweetness.

Can I use pre-crumbled feta cheese?

I highly recommend using a block of feta cheese instead of pre-crumbled versions. The texture of block feta is so much better, and you can crumble it yourself to get the perfect consistency. I personally love using Bulgarian feta because it’s creamy and not too salty.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! If you want to change it up, you could add a handful of diced bell peppers or even a few cherry tomatoes for extra color and texture.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, you can make it up to 2 hours ahead of time. Just remember, the watermelon will soften as it sits, so try to avoid making it too far in advance.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this watermelon feta salad is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, making it a perfect option for those with dietary restrictions.

Conclusion

This easy watermelon feta salad with mint and cucumber has quickly become one of my go-to recipes for summer. It’s light, refreshing, and full of flavor, making it the perfect side dish for any occasion. The sweet, juicy watermelon and salty feta complement each other perfectly, while the cucumber and mint add refreshing crunch and flavor. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just looking for a healthy, satisfying dish, this salad will definitely impress!