Watermelon and Cucumber Salad

Watermelon and Cucumber Salad is the perfect summer dish—light, refreshing, and full of vibrant flavor. Combining sweet watermelon with crisp cucumber, tangy lime, fresh herbs, and creamy feta, this salad is a cooling side that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch, it comes together in just minutes and always impresses.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet, salty, tangy, and herbaceous all in one dish
• No cooking required—just chop, toss, and serve
• Incredibly hydrating and refreshing for warm weather
• Pairs well with grilled dishes or can stand alone
• Easily adaptable to different dietary needs

Ingredients

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

• Seedless watermelon, cubed
• English cucumber, thinly sliced
• Feta cheese, crumbled
• Fresh mint leaves, chopped
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional), chopped
• Red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• Jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional for heat)
• Fresh lime juice
• Olive oil
• Honey (optional, for added sweetness)
• Salt

Directions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, and honey (if using). Season lightly with salt.
2. In a large salad bowl, combine cubed watermelon, sliced cucumber, crumbled feta, herbs, and optional red onion or jalapeño.
3. Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional herbs or feta if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add arugula for a peppery bite
• Replace feta with goat cheese or a plant-based alternative
• Use balsamic glaze instead of honey-lime for a richer dressing
• Toss in berries like blueberries or strawberries for added sweetness
• Add grilled shrimp or chicken for a protein-packed meal

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating: Not applicable—this salad is meant to be served cold.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, prep the ingredients and dressing separately, then toss together right before serving.

What kind of cucumber is best?

English or Persian cucumbers work best due to their thin skin and mild seeds.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is ideal for brightness, but bottled can work in a pinch.

What’s a good substitute for feta?

Goat cheese or a dairy-free feta-style cheese are good alternatives.

How do I know if a watermelon is ripe?

Look for a yellow field spot, a hollow sound when tapped, and a heavy feel for its size.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How can I make this vegan?

Skip the feta or use a vegan cheese alternative and maple syrup instead of honey.

Can I add greens to make it more filling?

Yes, try tossing with arugula or spinach for extra volume and nutrients.

Is jalapeño too spicy for this dish?

It adds mild heat, but you can omit it or adjust to taste.

What should I serve this salad with?

Pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or Mediterranean dishes like souvlaki or falafel.

Conclusion

Watermelon and Cucumber Salad is a crisp, refreshing, and colorful dish that’s perfect for summer dining. Quick to prepare and endlessly versatile, it’s a crowd-pleaser that elevates any meal with its sweet-savory balance and fresh ingredients. Make it your go-to side dish when the temperatures rise.

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