How to Make Refreshing Watermelon & Feta Salad

What’s the leading summer salad? One that’s light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor! If you love the sweet and salty combo, you’ll love this Watermelon & Feta Salad. 

Watermelon is 92% water, making it one of the most hydrating fruits. When paired with crumbly feta, crisp cucumber, and fresh herbs, it creates a mouthwatering contrast of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s a nutrient-packed dish that’s perfect for barbecues, picnics, or a healthy lunch option. This quick and easy recipe is proof that fresh ingredients and simple preparation can create something incredibly delicious. Let’s get started!

How to Make Refreshing Watermelon & Feta Salad 

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 0 minutes

Servings: 6 | Difficulty Level: Easy

Ingredients

For the Dressing:

• • • 2 tablespoons honey
    • 2 tablespoons lime juice
    • 1–2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
    • ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Salad:

• • • ½ watermelon, peeled and cubed
    • 1 English cucumber, cubed (about 2 cups)
    • 15 fresh mint leaves, chopped
    • 15 fresh basil leaves, chopped
    • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a bowl from your Zulay Kitchen mixing bowl set, whisk together honey, lime juice, olive oil, and salt until fullycombined. Let the mixture sit while you prepare the salad, allowing the flavors to meld for a perfectly balanced dressing. Using a high-quality mixing bowl set ensures easy whisking and mess-free preparation.

Step 2: Chop the Ingredients

With a knife set, cut the watermelon into small cubes for easy eating. Dice the English cucumber into even-sized pieces to ensure a consistent texture in every bite. Finely chop the mint and basil leaves to release their fresh, aromatic flavors, enhancing the overall taste of the salad. A sharp, high-quality chef’s knife makes prep work quicker and more precise, ensuring effortless slicing and dicing.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large serving bowl, combine watermelon, cucumber, mint, and basil. Drizzle the honey-lime dressing over the salad. Toss gently with a silicone spatula to coat everything evenly.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches

Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top, then serve immediately or store in a glass food container for up to 3 days.

Health Benefits of Watermelon & Feta Salad

Keeps You Hydrated

With watermelon consisting of 92% water, this refreshing salad is an excellent way to stay hydrated while also nourishing your body. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), your daily fluid intake includes what you drink and the water content in foods. Similarly, the Mayo Clinic emphasizes that hydrating fruits and vegetables—such as watermelon and cucumber—contribute significantly to overall fluid balance. Eating water-rich foods helps maintain hydration while delivering essential vitamins and minerals.

Loaded with Antioxidants

Watermelon is a powerhouse of lycopene, a potent antioxidant known for reducing inflammation, supporting heart health, and protecting cells from damage. Lycopene has been linked to improved cardiovascular function and may help lower the risk of chronic diseases by neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body.

Supports Healthy Digestion

Both watermelon and cucumber are high in fiber and water, making them excellent for digestion. Fiber promotes regular bowel movements, while the water content helps prevent bloating and supports a healthy gut. 

Rich in Essential Nutrients

• • Watermelon provides vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium, which boost immunity, enhance skin health, and regulate blood pressure.
  • Feta cheese is an excellent source of calcium, essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
  • Fresh herbs like mint and basil contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce oxidative stress and support overall wellness.

Tasty Variations & Serving Ideas

• Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a protein-packed version.
• Sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot honey for a kick of heat.
• Swap mint and basil with cilantro or parsley for a new flavor profile.
• Add toasted almonds, pistachios, or sunflower seeds for extra texture.
• Pair this salad with grilled meats, seafood, or pasta for a balanced meal.

Make Your Own Watermelon & Feta Salad Today!

This salad? It’s the kind of thing you throw together on a hot day when you want to feel like the epitome of summer freshness without turning on the stove. It’s salty, sweet, juicy, crunchy—all the things.

It doesn’t involve complicated vinaigrettes or hard-to-find ingredients. Just watermelon, feta, some fresh herbs, and a drizzle of honey-lime goodness. Simple, but it hits every time.

And look—while it’s already ridiculously good on its own, you could take it up a notch. Add some arugula for a little peppery bite. Toss in some toasted almonds for extra crunch. Or go full summer mode and enjoy it straight from the bowl with a fork. No rules, just good food.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Watermelon & Feta Salad

What type of feta cheese is best?

For the best flavor and texture, opt for authentic Greek feta cheese. It’s made from sheep’s milk or a mix of sheep’s and goat’s milk, giving it a rich, creamy, and slightly tangy taste. Pre-crumbled feta tends to be drier and lacks the same creaminess. 

Can I substitute the watermelon?

Absolutely! While watermelon is the star of this salad, you can switch it up based on what you have on hand. Cantaloupe, honeydew, or strawberries all work beautifully and still provide that sweet contrast to the salty feta. If you prefer something even more unique, try grilled peaches or pineapple for a smoky-sweet twist. The key is using juicy, refreshing fruit that complements the other ingredients.

What’s a good vegan substitute for feta?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, vegan feta is widely available and mimics the salty, tangy flavor of traditional feta. Brands like Violife and Follow Your Heart make excellent options. If you prefer a more natural approach, try crumbled tofu marinated in lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and nutritional yeast for a similar taste.

Can I add a dressing alternative?

Yes! While the honey-lime dressing is delicious, you can easily swap it for a balsamic glaze for a deeper, slightly sweet flavor. Another great option is a citrus vinaigrette made with orange or lemon juice, olive oil, and a touch of Dijon mustard for tanginess.

What are the best foods to serve with this salad?

This salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes! It’s light and refreshing, making it a perfect side for grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon. It also complements Mediterranean-inspired meals like lamb skewers or hummus platters. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, serve it with pasta dishes, quinoa bowls, or even crusty bread to soak up the flavorful dressing. For a picnic or barbecue, it makes a fantastic side dish next to burgers or grilled vegetables.