Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe

This refreshing watermelon cucumber salad is a game changer for your summer cookouts. Its fresh, juicy watermelon, crispy cucumber, salty feta, and minty undertones create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. It's the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy that is sure to impress your guests.

Photos of Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe

Most of the ingredients are common and should be easily found in your local grocery store. However, keep in mind that English cucumber is different from regular cucumber. It's often larger, sweeter, and has a thinner skin that doesn't require peeling. Also, look for baby arugula which is tender and has a less bitter taste than the mature variety. Finally, try using fresh mint leaves for an enhanced flavor profile.

Ingredients for Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Feta

Watermelon: This juicy fruit provides sweetness and hydration.

Baby Arugula: Its peppery flavor balances out the sweetness of the watermelon.

English Cucumber: Adds crunch and freshness to the salad.

Red onion: Offers a sharp and slightly sweet flavor.

Fresh mint leaves: Adds a refreshing and cool flavor.

Feta cheese: Gives a tangy and salty flavor that contrasts with the sweet watermelon.

Walnuts: Gives a nice crunch and is a great source of Omega-3.

Olive oil: Used for the vinaigrette, adds a rich and fruity taste.

Fresh lemon juice: Adds acidity to the vinaigrette balancing the oil.

Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to the vinaigrette.

Dijon mustard: Gives the vinaigrette a tangy kick and helps emulsify it.

Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Used to season the salad and vinaigrette.

One reader, Blair Parrish says:

This watermelon cucumber salad with feta recipe is a refreshing delight! The combination of sweet watermelon, crisp cucumber, and tangy feta is a burst of flavors. The lemon vinaigrette adds a zesty kick, making it a perfect summer dish. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a light and delicious salad option.

Blair Parrish

Key Techniques for Making Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Feta

How to make lemon vinaigrette: Combine olive oil, lemon juice, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper in a jar. Cover with a lid and shake to combine. Chill until ready to use.

How to assemble the salad: In a salad bowl, layer together watermelon, baby arugula, English cucumber, red onion, fresh mint leaves, feta cheese, and walnuts. Shake the dressing again, then pour it over the top. Gently toss to coat the salad ingredients. Serve immediately.

How To Make Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Feta

Have a refreshing meal with this watermelon cucumber salad tossed with arugula, feta cheese, and pecans with lemon vinaigrette.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Salad:

4cupswatermelon,(20 oz), chilled seedless, diced into small chunks
4cupsbaby arugula
½English cucumber,halved lengthwise and sliced
⅓cupred onion,quartered and thinly sliced
½cupfresh mint leaves,chopped
4ozfeta cheese,crumbled
⅔cupwalnuts,chopped, toasted

For Lemon Vinaigrette:

⅓cupolive oil
3tbspfresh lemon juice
1tbsphoney
1tspDijon mustard
salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

In a jar combine olive oil, lemon juice, honey, mustard and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover with lid and shake to combine. Chill until ready to use.
In a salad bowl layer together salad ingredients. Shake dressing again then pour over top. Very gently toss to coat. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 258.86kcal
Fat: 19.98g
Saturated Fat: 5.48g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.68g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.04g
Carbohydrates: 17.95g
Fiber: 1.82g
Sugar: 13.34g
Protein: 4.96g
Cholesterol: 20.18mg
Sodium: 537.36mg
Calcium: 159.74mg
Potassium: 298.19mg
Iron: 1.92mg
Vitamin A: 89.45µg
Vitamin C: 17.20mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Feta

When preparing the watermelon for this salad, try using a melon baller to create uniform, bite-sized pieces. This not only enhances the presentation of the salad, but also ensures even distribution of flavors in each bite. Additionally, when adding the feta cheese, crumble it into small pieces rather than large chunks to allow its salty flavor to subtly permeate the entire salad.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Salad Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the lemon vinaigrette and chop the watermelon, cucumber, and red onion a day in advance to save time on the day of serving.

Use pre-crumbled feta: Opt for pre-crumbled feta cheese to save time on crumbling and measuring.

Invest in a good quality knife: A sharp, high-quality knife will make chopping and slicing ingredients quicker and more efficient.

Buy pre-toasted walnuts: Save time by purchasing pre-toasted walnuts, or toast a large batch in advance and store them for later use.

Organize your workspace: Before you start, ensure all ingredients and utensils are easily accessible to streamline the cooking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe

watermelon - Substitute with cantaloupe: Cantaloupe has a similar texture and sweetness to watermelon, making it a suitable replacement in the salad.
baby arugula - Substitute with baby spinach: Baby spinach can provide a milder flavor and tender texture similar to arugula in the salad.
english cucumber - Substitute with Persian cucumber: Persian cucumbers are crisp and have a similar mild flavor, making them a good alternative in the salad.
red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a mild onion flavor and can be a suitable replacement for red onions in the salad.
fresh mint leaves - Substitute with fresh basil leaves: Fresh basil can provide a similar aromatic and herbaceous flavor to the salad.
feta cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese has a tangy flavor and creamy texture that can be a good alternative to feta in the salad.
walnuts - Substitute with pecans: Pecans have a similar nutty flavor and crunchy texture, making them a suitable replacement for walnuts in the salad.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil offers a mild, buttery flavor and can be used as a healthy alternative in the lemon vinaigrette.
lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar provides a tangy acidity similar to lemon juice in the vinaigrette.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can offer a similar sweetness and depth of flavor to the vinaigrette.
dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard can provide a similar tangy flavor and texture to the vinaigrette.

Presentation Tips for a Stunning Watermelon Cucumber Salad

Elevate the watermelon: Cut the watermelon into elegant cubes or use a melon baller to create visually appealing shapes. This will add sophistication to the dish.
Artful arrangement of arugula: Arrange the baby arugula in a delicate and deliberate manner, creating a visually stunning bed for the other ingredients.
Precision-cut cucumber: Slice the English cucumber thinly and uniformly, then arrange it in a precise pattern to add a touch of finesse to the dish.
Meticulously minced red onion: Finely mince the red onion and sprinkle it sparingly over the salad for a burst of flavor and a pop of color.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves: Carefully place the fresh mint leaves on top of the salad, adding a pop of vibrant green and a refreshing aroma.
Crumbled feta cheese: Crumble the feta cheese with precision, scattering it evenly over the salad to provide a creamy and tangy element.
Toasted walnuts: Toast the walnuts to perfection and sprinkle them over the salad, adding a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
Drizzle with lemon vinaigrette: Using a steady hand, drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the salad, ensuring an even distribution of the tangy and sweet dressing.
Final touch with edible flowers: For an extra touch of elegance, delicately place edible flowers on the salad, adding a pop of color and a hint of floral fragrance.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Watermelon Cucumber Salad

Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile and essential kitchen tool for slicing, dicing, and chopping various ingredients.
Mixing bowl: Used for combining and mixing ingredients for salads, dressings, and marinades.
Whisk: Used for blending and emulsifying ingredients, such as for making vinaigrettes.
Jar with lid: Used for shaking and storing dressings and marinades.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients for recipes.
Serving bowl or platter: Used for serving the watermelon cucumber salad with feta.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Watermelon Cucumber Salad

This watermelon cucumber 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 the lemon vinaigrette separate from the salad ingredients until ready to serve to prevent the arugula from wilting and the watermelon from becoming soggy.
If you want to prepare the salad in advance, you can:
- Cut the watermelon and cucumber and store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Crumble the feta cheese and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Chop the red onion and fresh mint leaves and store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Toast the walnuts and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Prepare the lemon vinaigrette and store it in a jar with a tight-fitting lid in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
It is not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture and quality of the ingredients will deteriorate upon thawing.

Interesting Trivia About Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Feta

Watermelon cucumber salad is a refreshing and hydrating dish, perfect for hot summer days. It's a great source of hydration due to its high water content, with watermelon being about 92% water and cucumber about 95% water. This salad is also rich in vitamins and minerals, providing a boost of nutrients. Additionally, the combination of watermelon and cucumber creates a unique flavor profile that is both sweet and refreshing. The addition of feta cheese provides a savory and creamy element, balancing out the sweetness of the fruits.

Budget-Friendly: Making Watermelon Cucumber Salad at Home

This watermelon cucumber salad with feta recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are mostly affordable and easily accessible. The watermelon, cucumber, and arugula are generally reasonably priced, and the addition of feta cheese and walnuts doesn't significantly impact the overall cost. The lemon vinaigrette ingredients are also economical. This refreshing salad is a great option for a budget-friendly yet flavorful meal. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious taste. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20.

Is This Salad Recipe Healthy?

This watermelon cucumber salad with feta recipe is a refreshing and nutritious summer dish. The combination of watermelon, cucumber, and arugula provides a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as hydration. The addition of mint leaves adds a burst of freshness and aids in digestion. Feta cheese and walnuts contribute protein and healthy fats to the salad, making it a well-rounded meal. The lemon vinaigrette is light and complements the flavors of the salad without overpowering them.

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

Swap the arugula for spinach or kale to increase the iron and calcium content
Add a handful of quinoa or chickpeas for an extra boost of plant-based protein and fiber
Replace the feta cheese with a lower-sodium alternative, such as goat cheese or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast
Toast the walnuts to bring out their flavor and crunch, while also increasing their antioxidant properties
Experiment with different herbs, such as basil or cilantro, to add variety and additional health benefits to the salad

Editor's Opinion: Why We Love This Watermelon Cucumber Salad

This watermelon cucumber salad with feta recipe is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. The juicy watermelon, crisp cucumber, and peppery arugula create a delightful texture, while the red onion and fresh mint add a pop of freshness. The creamy and salty feta cheese, along with the crunchy walnuts, provide a satisfying contrast. The lemon vinaigrette ties everything together with its zesty and bright notes. Overall, this salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a delightful addition to any summer meal or gathering.

Enhance Your Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Asparagus: Toss asparagus in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grill until tender and slightly charred for a delicious and healthy side dish.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Toss sweet potatoes in a mix of olive oil, paprika, and garlic powder, then roast until crispy and caramelized for a flavorful and colorful addition to the meal.

Mango Avocado Salsa: Combine diced mango, avocado, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice for a refreshing and tropical salsa that pairs perfectly with the watermelon cucumber salad.

Quinoa Pilaf: Cook quinoa with sautéed onions, garlic, and bell peppers, then toss with fresh herbs and lemon juice for a light and protein-packed side dish.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Roast carrots with a honey and butter glaze until tender and caramelized for a sweet and savory accompaniment to the salad.

Similar Refreshing Salad Recipes to Try

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a tangy balsamic glaze before grilling for a delicious and healthy side dish.

Mango Avocado Salsa: Combine ripe mango, creamy avocado, and zesty lime juice for a refreshing and flavorful salsa that pairs perfectly with grilled fish or chicken.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken: Rub a whole chicken with a mixture of lemon, garlic, and herbs before roasting to golden perfection for a juicy and flavorful main course.

Berry Chia Seed Pudding: Mix chia seeds with your favorite berries and almond milk for a nutritious and satisfying dessert or breakfast option.

Butternut Squash Soup: Simmer butternut squash with onions, garlic, and warming spices for a comforting and creamy soup that's perfect for chilly evenings.

Perfect Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Watermelon Cucumber Salad

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms stuffed with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs, then baked to perfection. A delightful bite-sized appetizer that will leave your guests wanting more.

Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves threaded onto skewers and drizzled with a balsamic glaze. A refreshing and elegant appetizer that is sure to impress.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Berry Parfait: Layer fresh berries with creamy yogurt and crunchy granola for a light and refreshing parfait that is perfect for a summer treat or a guilt-free dessert option.

Why trust this Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe:

This refreshing watermelon cucumber salad with feta recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of juicy watermelon, crisp cucumber, peppery arugula, and tangy feta cheese creates a harmonious balance. The addition of fresh mint and crunchy walnuts adds a burst of freshness and nuttiness. The zesty lemon vinaigrette ties everything together with its bright and citrusy notes. Trust in the quality and simplicity of these fresh ingredients to elevate your salad game and impress your taste buds.

Want to share your own twist on this refreshing Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Feta Recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of the forum and let us know how you make it your own!

FAQ:

Can I substitute the feta cheese with another type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute feta cheese with goat cheese, ricotta salata, or even queso fresco for a similar creamy and tangy flavor.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

While you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, it's best to dress the salad just before serving to prevent the arugula from wilting and the watermelon from becoming too watery.

Can I omit the walnuts for a nut-free version?

Absolutely, you can omit the walnuts or substitute them with pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or even croutons for added crunch.

Can I use a different type of greens instead of arugula?

Yes, you can use baby spinach, mixed greens, or even chopped romaine lettuce as a substitute for the arugula.

Can I use a different type of melon instead of watermelon?

Certainly, you can use honeydew, cantaloupe, or a mix of different melons to create a unique and refreshing salad.