Description
A refreshing and vibrant Watermelon Feta Salad combining juicy watermelon cubes, crisp cucumber slices, aromatic fresh mint and basil leaves, creamy feta cheese, and a tangy honey-lime dressing. Perfect for a light summer appetizer or side dish, this salad is quick to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 1/2 watermelon (seedless variety preferred), cut into cubes
- 1 English or Hot House cucumber, sliced
- 15 fresh mint leaves, vibrant green and fresh
- 15 fresh basil leaves, fresh and aromatic
- 1/2 cup (about 120 ml) creamy feta cheese, block feta preferred
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) honey
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) freshly squeezed lime juice (or bottled)
- 1 to 2 tablespoons (15 to 30 ml) extra virgin olive oil, high quality
- Pinch of kosher salt
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of kosher salt until the mixture is well combined and smooth. Set aside briefly to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Mix the salad ingredients: Place the cubed watermelon, sliced cucumber, fresh mint leaves, and fresh basil leaves into a large bowl or serving platter. Gently toss by hand or with a large spoon to combine, taking care to keep the watermelon cubes intact and avoid bruising them.
- Add the dressing: Drizzle the prepared honey-lime dressing evenly over the fruit, cucumber, and herbs. Gently toss the salad again using your hands to coat all ingredients evenly without crushing the watermelon cubes.
- Finish and serve: Sprinkle the creamy feta cheese over the top of the salad just before serving to maintain texture and freshness. Serve immediately as a light and refreshing dish.
Notes
- For best texture and flavor, use a seedless watermelon variety.
- Block feta cheese offers better texture control compared to crumbled feta.
- If fresh lime juice is not available, bottled lime juice is a suitable substitute.
- Adjust the amount of olive oil between 1 to 2 tablespoons according to taste preference.
- Serve immediately after assembling to preserve freshness and avoid watery salad.
