Name: Easy Watermelon Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 avocados; ½ lime; 6 cups watermelon; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp cider vinegar; ¼ cup fresh mint; salt and pepper; ½ cup feta cheese

This easy watermelon salad is a refreshing mix of creamy avocados, juicy watermelon, and tangy feta cheese, all brought together with a simple dressing. Perfect for a summer day or as a light side dish.

Photos of Easy Watermelon Salad Recipe

While most of the ingredients in this recipe are commonly found, you might need to pay special attention to fresh mint. Make sure to look for vibrant, green leaves without any wilting when you visit the supermarket. The cider vinegar might also require a trip down the condiment aisle if it's not already in your pantry.

Ingredients For Easy Watermelon Salad Recipe

Avocados: These add a creamy texture and rich flavor to the salad.

Lime: Provides a zesty kick that enhances the flavors of the avocado.

Watermelon: The star of the salad, adding a juicy, refreshing sweetness.

Olive oil: Used in the dressing to bring everything together.

Cider vinegar: Adds a tangy note to the dressing.

Fresh mint: Offers a burst of freshness and a hint of coolness.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.

Pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth.

Feta cheese: Crumbled on top for a salty, creamy finish.

One reader, Cherice Baca says:

This easy watermelon salad recipe is a refreshing delight! The combination of juicy watermelon, creamy avocado, and tangy feta is perfect. The mint adds a burst of freshness, making it an ideal summer dish. Simple to make and absolutely delicious!

Cherice Baca

Techniques Required for Making Easy Watermelon Salad

How to dice avocados: Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh. Then, cut the flesh into small, even cubes. How to squeeze lime juice: Cut the lime in half and use a citrus juicer or your hand to squeeze out the juice. How to dice watermelon: Cut the watermelon into manageable slices, remove the rind, and then cut the flesh into small, even cubes. How to chop fresh mint: Wash the mint leaves, remove them from the stems, and chop them finely with a knife.

How To Make Easy Watermelon Salad

Serve a refreshing side with this watermelon salad. It’s tossed with avocados, a squeeze of lime juice, cider vinegar, and mint, then topped with feta.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2avocados,ripe, optional
½lime
6cupswatermelon,diced
2tbspolive oil
1tspcider vinegar
¼cupfresh mint,chopped
salt and pepper,to taste
½cupfeta cheese,crumbled

Instructions

Dice avocados, if using, and place in a large bowl. Squeeze lime juice over avocado and stir.
Add watermelon, olive oil, cider vinegar, mint, salt, and pepper to taste. Toss to combine.
Top with feta cheese and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 115.79kcal
Fat: 8.64g
Saturated Fat: 1.98g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.25g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.93g
Carbohydrates: 9.62g
Fiber: 2.85g
Sugar: 5.30g
Protein: 2.15g
Cholesterol: 5.56mg
Sodium: 289.48mg
Calcium: 46.77mg
Potassium: 269.46mg
Iron: 0.70mg
Vitamin A: 35.73µg
Vitamin C: 10.65mg

Key Technique for Elevating Your Watermelon Salad

When dicing avocados, use a spoon to scoop out the flesh after halving and pitting them. This helps maintain the shape and prevents bruising.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Watermelon Salad

Prep ingredients in advance: Dice the avocados and watermelon ahead of time and store them in the fridge.

Use pre-crumbled feta: Save time by buying feta cheese that's already crumbled.

Quick mint chopping: Stack and roll the mint leaves before chopping to save time.

Efficient lime juicing: Microwave the lime for 10 seconds to make it easier to juice.

Combine dressings: Mix olive oil and cider vinegar in a small jar and shake well before adding to the salad.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Watermelon Salad Recipe

avocados - Substitute with cucumbers: Cucumbers provide a similar creamy texture and refreshing taste, making them a great alternative.
lime - Substitute with lemon: Lemon juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, which can brighten up the salad just like lime.
watermelon - Substitute with cantaloupe: Cantaloupe has a similar sweetness and juicy texture, making it a good replacement for watermelon.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and similar health benefits, making it a suitable alternative.
cider vinegar - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar has a comparable acidity and light flavor, which can mimic the taste of cider vinegar.
fresh mint - Substitute with basil: Basil offers a fresh and aromatic flavor that can complement the other ingredients similarly to mint.
feta cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese has a similar tangy and creamy profile, making it a good alternative to feta cheese.

Best Way to Present This Refreshing Watermelon Salad

Use a chilled plate: Start by chilling your serving plate in the refrigerator. This will keep the watermelon salad fresh and cool, enhancing the dining experience.
Create a base layer: Arrange a bed of diced watermelon on the plate, forming a neat, even layer. This will serve as the foundation of your salad.
Add avocado elegantly: Gently place the diced avocados on top of the watermelon, ensuring they are evenly distributed. The lime juice will keep the avocados vibrant and fresh.
Drizzle with dressing: Mix the olive oil and cider vinegar together, then drizzle it evenly over the watermelon and avocados. This will add a subtle tang and richness to the salad.
Season with precision: Lightly sprinkle salt and pepper over the salad. Be careful not to over-season; the goal is to enhance the natural flavors.
Garnish with fresh mint: Finely chop the fresh mint and sprinkle it over the salad. This will add a refreshing aroma and a burst of color.
Top with feta cheese: Crumble the feta cheese over the salad just before serving. The creamy, salty feta will contrast beautifully with the sweet watermelon.
Final touch: For an extra touch of elegance, add a few whole mint leaves on top as a garnish. This will make the dish visually appealing and add a hint of freshness.
Serve immediately: Present the salad promptly to ensure the ingredients remain crisp and vibrant. The chilled plate will help maintain the salad's refreshing quality.

Essential Tools for Making a Delicious Watermelon Salad

Knife: To dice the avocados and watermelon into bite-sized pieces.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting the avocados and watermelon.
Large bowl: Used to mix all the salad ingredients together.
Lime squeezer: Helps to extract juice from the lime efficiently.
Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of olive oil, cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Mixing spoon: Used to toss and combine the salad ingredients evenly.
Serving spoon: For serving the salad once it is ready.
Salad tongs: Optional, but useful for serving the salad without squishing the ingredients.
Small bowl: To hold the lime juice before adding it to the salad.
Cheese grater: If you need to crumble the feta cheese yourself.

How To Store and Freeze Watermelon Salad for Later

This watermelon salad is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Keep in mind that the watermelon will release some of its juices as it sits, so the salad may become slightly watery over time.
If you want to prepare the salad in advance, you can dice the watermelon and store it separately from the other ingredients in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
When ready to serve, combine the watermelon with the remaining ingredients and toss gently.
It's not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of the watermelon and avocado will change significantly upon thawing, resulting in a mushy and unappetizing dish.
If you have leftover feta cheese, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To maintain the best flavor and texture of the mint leaves, store them in a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Random Fact About Watermelon Salad

A random fact about this watermelon salad recipe is that the combination of watermelon and feta cheese creates a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a refreshing and unique dish perfect for summer gatherings.

Is Making Watermelon Salad at Home Cost-Effective?

This watermelon salad recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like watermelon, avocados, and feta cheese are generally affordable and readily available. The use of olive oil and fresh mint adds a touch of gourmet without breaking the bank. Overall, this recipe scores an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $12-$15 USD.

Is This Watermelon Salad Healthy or Unhealthy?

This watermelon salad recipe is a refreshing and mostly healthy dish, thanks to its main ingredient: watermelon. Watermelon is low in calories and packed with essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. The addition of mint provides a burst of freshness and has been known to aid digestion. Olive oil, a healthy fat, is used in moderation, which is beneficial for heart health.

However, there are a few elements that could be adjusted to make this salad even healthier:

Reduce the amount of feta cheese or opt for a lower-fat variety to decrease the overall fat content
Use a salt substitute or reduce the amount of salt added to the salad to lower sodium intake
Include more nutrient-dense ingredients, such as spinach or arugula, to boost the salad's vitamin and mineral content

To further enhance the nutritional value of this watermelon salad, consider the following suggestions:

Add a handful of chopped walnuts or almonds for a dose of healthy fats and protein
Incorporate a variety of colorful vegetables, such as bell peppers or cucumber, to increase the salad's fiber content and provide a wider range of vitamins and minerals
Drizzle the salad with a homemade balsamic vinaigrette instead of plain olive oil and cider vinegar for an extra layer of flavor and antioxidants
Experiment with different herbs, like basil or cilantro, to introduce new flavors and potential health benefits

Editor's Thoughts on This Simple Yet Flavorful Watermelon Salad

This watermelon salad recipe is a refreshing and vibrant dish, perfect for summer. The combination of juicy watermelon, creamy avocado, and tangy feta creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. The mint adds a fresh, aromatic note, while the lime juice and cider vinegar provide a zesty kick. The olive oil ties everything together with a smooth finish. It's a simple yet sophisticated salad that can be prepared quickly, making it ideal for both casual gatherings and elegant dinners.

Enhance Your Easy Watermelon Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Elevate your watermelon salad with a touch of the sea. Grilled shrimp skewers bring a smoky, savory contrast to the sweet and refreshing watermelon. The charred edges and juicy interior of the shrimp will make your taste buds dance in delight.

Quinoa and Black Bean Salad: For a protein-packed companion, consider a quinoa and black bean salad. The nutty quinoa and hearty black beans provide a satisfying texture and flavor that complements the lightness of the watermelon salad. A sprinkle of cilantro and a dash of lime juice will tie the two dishes together beautifully.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus: Add a touch of elegance with prosciutto-wrapped asparagus. The salty, savory prosciutto pairs perfectly with the crisp, tender asparagus, creating a delightful contrast to the sweet and juicy watermelon. This side dish is not only delicious but also visually stunning.

Mango Salsa: Brighten up your meal with a vibrant mango salsa. The sweet and tangy mango chunks, combined with a hint of jalapeño heat, create a zesty side that complements the refreshing watermelon salad. A sprinkle of cilantro and a squeeze of lime will make this salsa irresistible.

Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: For a touch of indulgence, serve garlic parmesan breadsticks. The warm, buttery breadsticks, coated in garlic and parmesan, offer a savory contrast to the light and fruity watermelon salad. These breadsticks are perfect for soaking up any extra olive oil and cider vinegar dressing.

Other Refreshing Salad Recipes Similar to Watermelon Salad

Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad: Experience a delightful fusion of grilled peaches and creamy burrata cheese. This salad is elevated with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts. Perfect for a summer appetizer or a light meal.

Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Basil: A refreshing mix of crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes, this salad is brought to life with fresh basil, a splash of red wine vinegar, and a touch of olive oil. Simple, yet bursting with flavor.

Mango and Jicama Slaw: Combine the tropical sweetness of mango with the crunchy texture of jicama. Tossed in a zesty lime vinaigrette and garnished with cilantro, this slaw is a vibrant addition to any meal.

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing: A delightful blend of fresh strawberries and baby spinach, topped with sliced almonds and crumbled goat cheese. The homemade poppy seed dressing ties all the flavors together beautifully.

Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Salad: Nutty quinoa pairs perfectly with a medley of roasted vegetables. Tossed in a tangy lemon-tahini dressing and sprinkled with fresh parsley, this salad is both hearty and nutritious.

Suggested Main Courses and Desserts to Pair With Watermelon Salad

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the zesty flavors of lemon with aromatic herbs. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, thyme, and rosemary, then grilled to perfection. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. The smoky char from the grill enhances the citrusy and herbaceous notes, making it a crowd-pleaser for any dinner gathering.

Pasta Primavera: Pasta Primavera is a vibrant and colorful dish that celebrates the freshness of seasonal vegetables. The pasta is tossed with a medley of bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and peas, all sautéed in olive oil and garlic. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice add the finishing touches. This dish is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal, offering a burst of flavors and textures in every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Chocolate Lava Cake is a decadent treat that features a warm, gooey center of melted chocolate. This dessert is perfect for those who crave a rich and indulgent experience. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the intense flavors. Garnish with fresh berries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

Tiramisu: Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that layers coffee-soaked ladyfingers with a creamy mixture of mascarpone cheese, eggs, and sugar. The top is dusted with a generous amount of cocoa powder for a bittersweet finish. This dessert is best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together. Consider adding a hint of coffee liqueur for an extra kick.

Why trust this Easy Watermelon Salad Recipe:

This watermelon salad recipe is a refreshing and nutritious choice, perfect for summer. The combination of avocado and watermelon provides a delightful contrast in texture, while the lime juice adds a zesty kick. The olive oil and cider vinegar dressing enhances the flavors, and the fresh mint brings a burst of freshness. Topped with feta cheese, this salad is both savory and sweet. Simple to prepare, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress.

Share your thoughts on this easy watermelon salad recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any creative variations or serving suggestions!

FAQ:

Can I make this watermelon salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but I recommend adding the avocado, lime juice, and feta cheese just before serving to keep everything fresh and prevent the avocado from browning.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

If you're not a fan of feta, you can substitute it with goat cheese, ricotta salata, or even a mild blue cheese. Each will give a different flavor twist to the salad.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It's best to consume the salad within a day or two, as the watermelon can release a lot of juice and the avocado may brown.

Can I add other ingredients to this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like cucumber, red onion, or arugula for extra crunch and flavor. You can also sprinkle some nuts or seeds for added texture.

Is there a substitute for cider vinegar?

If you don't have cider vinegar on hand, you can use white wine vinegar, red wine vinegar, or even balsamic vinegar. Each will bring a slightly different taste to the salad, but they'll all work well.