With summer in full swing, I’ve been on the lookout for light, healthy, and refreshing recipes to beat the heat. After enjoying plenty of sweet, juicy watermelon, I decided to repurpose the leftovers into a delicious watermelon salad. This easy summer salad is packed with fresh ingredients, hydrating, and perfect as a side dish for barbecues, picnics, or light lunches. If you are hosting a get-together or need to bring an appetizer this is the dish to bring.
It was surprising, Delish, and I couldn’t stop eating it. Watermelon is over 90% water, making it great for hydration.
Key Ingredients:
- Juicy watermelon cubes
- Creamy feta cheese
- Fresh mint leaves
- Thinly sliced red onions
This combination hits all the right notes: sweet, salty, creamy, and zesty. The mint adds a cooling freshness, while the feta brings a savory depth that complements the watermelon’s natural sweetness.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Serves
6
Ingredients
- large juicy watermelon
- crumbled feta
- pumpkin seeds ( roasted)
- mint leaves
- red onion sliced
- 1/2 lemon
- olive oil ( drizzle)
Steps
1
Start by chopping a medium to large watermelon into small, bite-sized cubes.Transfer the pieces to a medium bowl and place it in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the other ingredients. A refreshingly cold watermelon makes all the difference in this salad.
2
Grab a handful or more of fresh mint—finely mince the leaves for a burst of brightness in every bite. If you need to add more you can. Meanwhile, toss a handful of pumpkin seeds into a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast them for a few minutes, stirring frequently, until they’re golden and fragrant. This adds a perfect nutty crunch to the salad.
3
Next, thinly slice a red onion, then give it a rough chop into small pieces—you want just enough bite without overpowering the salad. Once the watermelon is nicely chilled, combine it with the minced mint, toasted pumpkin seeds, and chopped red onion in a large bowl. Finish with a generous sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese for a creamy, salty contrast that ties everything together.
4
Finish the salad with good serving olive oil and splash of lemon.
Creative Twists
Want to mix it up? Try these variations:
- Add cucumber for extra crunch and hydration.
- Include other ingredients like cherry tomatoes or colorful peppers for added flavor and color.
- Toss in arugula or micro peppery green base to create a fresh, balanced base.
- Sprinkle with toasted nuts or seeds , such as sunflower seeds or slivered almonds, for added texture.
- Swap feta for goat cheese or vegan cheese for dietary preferences.
- Use a chili-lime dressing for a spicy kick!
Tips for the Best Watermelon Salad
- Use chilled watermelon for maximum refreshment.
- Cut ingredients uniformly for a balanced bite.
- Dress just before serving to keep everything crisp.
- Serve cold and enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavour.
Watermelon is the ultimate summer fruit—refreshing, naturally sweet, and packed with hydration. It’s not only healthy and delicious but also incredibly versatile. Enjoy it simply in a bowl, topped with whipped cream for a light dessert, or get creative with watermelon skewers for a fun twist. It also shines in savory dishes, pairing beautifully with ingredients like feta, mint, cucumber, and citrus in fresh, vibrant salads.
