Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Strawberries and Feta

Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Strawberries and Feta is the perfect summer salad—light, refreshing, colorful, and full of vibrant flavor. The sweetness of the watermelon and strawberries is beautifully balanced by the cool crunch of cucumber, salty feta, and a zesty lime-mint dressing. It’s an ideal dish for backyard cookouts, picnics, or light lunches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultra-refreshing and hydrating, especially in warm weather
• Sweet, salty, and tangy flavors all in one bite
• Ready in minutes with minimal prep
• Naturally gluten-free and easily made vegan
• Stunning presentation that’s perfect for entertaining

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Seedless watermelon, cubed
• Fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• English or Persian cucumber, thinly sliced
• Feta cheese, crumbled (or vegan alternative)
• Fresh mint leaves, chopped

For the dressing:

• Fresh lime juice
• Lime zest
• Honey or agave syrup
• Salt
• Optional: a touch of olive oil or finely chopped mint

directions

1. Prep the ingredients: Cube the watermelon, slice the strawberries and cucumbers, and chop the mint. Place everything in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, lime zest, honey (or agave), and a pinch of salt. Add chopped mint if using.
3. Assemble the salad: Drizzle the dressing over the fruit and veggies. Gently toss to combine.
4. Add feta: Top with crumbled feta cheese just before serving.
5. Serve chilled: Refrigerate for 10–15 minutes or serve immediately for a cool, crisp bite.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 0 minutes
• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy twist: Add a few slices of jalapeño or a pinch of chili flakes
• Vegan version: Use a dairy-free feta or skip the cheese entirely
• Herb swap: Try basil instead of mint for a different fresh note
• More crunch: Add sliced radishes or toasted almonds
• Tropical take: Add pineapple or mango chunks for extra sweetness

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Note: The watermelon will release moisture over time, so the salad is best enjoyed fresh. Re-toss before serving again.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but for the best texture, keep the dressing and feta separate until just before serving.

How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?

Serve shortly after tossing and avoid overmixing. You can also salt the cucumbers slightly ahead of time and pat them dry.

Is this salad good without the feta?

Definitely—it’s still delicious and refreshing. Feta just adds a salty contrast.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.

What type of cucumber is best?

English or Persian cucumbers are ideal—they’re crisp and have thin skins with minimal seeds.

Can I add greens to this salad?

Yes! Arugula or baby spinach are great additions for more volume and texture.

Is this a good salad for a potluck or picnic?

Absolutely—it’s colorful, flavorful, and easy to transport. Just keep it chilled.

Can I use a different fruit besides strawberries?

Yes, blueberries, raspberries, or diced mango also work well.

What protein could I add to make it a full meal?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are great protein additions.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

No, this salad is not freezer-friendly due to the high water content of the fruit.

Conclusion

Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Strawberries and Feta is the ultimate warm-weather dish—cool, juicy, and bursting with flavor. It’s a simple, elegant salad that’s as easy to prepare as it is to love. Whether you’re making it for a cookout or just to enjoy a taste of summer, this recipe will leave everyone refreshed and impressed.

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