Juicy, vibrant, and effortlessly elegant, this Watermelon Salad Recipe with Feta and Cucumber is summer in a bowl. Each bite balances sweet, salty, creamy, and fresh in perfect harmony.

This Mediterranean-inspired salad is quick to prepare, visually stunning, and deeply satisfying. It’s ideal for backyard barbecues, weeknight dinners, or anytime you crave something cool and refreshing.

Key Ingredients that Make This Watermelon Salad with Feta and Cucumber Shine

Watermelon – Sweet and hydrating, watermelon brings color and luscious texture to the dish. Its juiciness anchors the salad with vibrant flavor.
English cucumber – Crisp and cooling, cucumber adds bite and freshness, balancing the watermelon’s natural sugars.
Feta cheese – Crumbled feta delivers a salty, creamy punch that contrasts beautifully with the fruit and herbs.
Fresh mint – This aromatic herb brightens the salad, enhancing the cooling effect of the cucumber.
Fresh basil – Earthy and sweet, basil adds a surprising depth that makes the flavors linger.
Honey-lime dressing – A zesty, subtly sweet vinaigrette that ties everything together and lifts the overall flavor.

Toss It Together: How to Make This Watermelon Salad with Feta and Cucumber

Begin with the honey-lime dressing: whisk together honey, freshly squeezed lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of salt. This tangy-sweet blend adds a punch of flavor that makes the salad irresistible.

In a large serving bowl, gently combine the watermelon cubes, cucumber, chopped mint, and basil. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the top and toss lightly to coat everything evenly without crushing the delicate fruit.

Finish with a generous sprinkle of crumbled feta and serve immediately. This salad is best enjoyed fresh when the ingredients are at their peak flavor and texture.

Flavor Boosts & Smart Substitutions

For a twist, try adding thinly sliced red onion or shallots for a bit of bite. Avocado cubes can lend extra creaminess, while a sprinkle of Aleppo pepper or chili flakes introduces a subtle heat that pairs beautifully with the sweet watermelon.

You can also swap basil for fresh dill or cilantro, depending on your flavor preference. If you prefer a vegan version, replace feta with plant-based cheese or omit it altogether and let the herbs and dressing do the heavy lifting.

Leftover Love: How to Store This Juicy Salad

Due to its high water content, this salad is best eaten the same day it’s prepared. Watermelon and cucumber release liquid quickly, which can water down the flavors over time.

However, if you have leftovers, store them in a sealed glass container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Give it a quick taste test before serving again. Avoid freezing—it alters the texture and dulls the vibrant flavors.

Watermelon Feta Salad Recipe

This invigorating Mediterranean salad marries the juicy sweetness of watermelon with the crispness of cucumber, balanced by creamy feta and aromatic herbs. A honey-lime vinaigrette adds a tangy finish that elevates every bite. For best flavor and texture, serve immediately after assembly.

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Course: Salad

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Keyword: Watermelon Feta Salad Recipe

Prep Time: 15

Total Time: 15

Servings:

Ingredients

For the Honey-Lime Dressing

2 tablespoons lime juice
1 –2 tablespoons high-quality extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons honey
pinch of salt

For the Watermelon Salad

15 fresh basil leaves finely chopped
½ cup crumbled feta cheese or more as desired
½ medium watermelon peeled and cubed
1 English cucumber or Hot House cucumber, diced (approximately 2 cups)
15 fresh mint leaves chopped

Instructions

Whisk together the honey, lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a small mixing bowl until the dressing is well combined and smooth. Set aside.
In a spacious bowl or a rimmed serving platter, combine the watermelon cubes, cucumber pieces, chopped mint, and basil.
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the assembled salad and toss delicately to ensure even coating.
Finish by scattering the crumbled feta on top and serve immediately.

Notes

Variations: Consider enhancing the salad with sliced shallots or red onions, creamy avocado chunks, or finely chopped hot peppers. A sprinkle of Aleppo-style pepper flakes can add subtle heat and depth.
Storage Tips: Given the high water content of both watermelon and cucumber, it’s recommended to consume the salad on the day it is made. Leftovers may be kept in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to two days, though texture and flavor may diminish.