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This vibrant Watermelon, Feta, and Mint Salad is a refreshing and delightful dish perfect for warm days or light meals.
What makes this recipe truly special is its harmonious balance of sweet, salty, and herbaceous flavors—the juicy, hydrating watermelon pairs beautifully with creamy, tangy feta cheese and bright mint notes.
Nutritionally, it shines as a low-calorie option rich in vitamin C and potassium, while offering a moderate amount of plant-based antioxidants and healthy fats from the extra-virgin olive oil.
Although light in protein, the feta adds a satisfying dose along with calcium and a touch of saltiness that complements the salad without overpowering it.
This recipe is incredibly quick and easy, requiring just 10 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weekdays, casual gatherings, or meal prep.
Its fresh ingredients and minimal cooking make it a wholesome, hydrating, and flavorful addition to any menu.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Sharp Vegetable Peeler
Essential for removing thin strips of lemon zest without the bitter pith, adding fresh citrus aroma and flavor.
This versatile tool is great for peeling vegetables, garnishing, and creating delicate ribbons in many recipes.
Large Mixing Bowl
Perfect for tossing the watermelon chunks with dressing ingredients evenly.
A spacious, durable bowl simplifies mixing and ensures flavors distribute well without spilling.
Wide, Shallow Serving Bowl or Plate
Ideal for spreading out the salad attractively, enhancing presentation and allowing easy access for guests.
Its broad surface is perfect for showcasing colorful ingredients.
Measuring Spoons
Accurate measurement of lemon juice and olive oil ensures balanced flavor.
A kitchen staple for consistent seasoning and portion control in all recipes.
Watermelon Feta Mint Salad
Equipment
- 1 Sharp Vegetable Peeler
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 Wide, Shallow Serving Bowl or Plate
- Measuring Spoons (1 tbsp and 1 tsp)
Ingredients
- 3 pounds seedless watermelon peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes (about 2 pounds after rind removal)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice from approximately 1 lemon
- Zest from 1 lemon peeled into thin strips
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves roughly chopped
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil plus extra for drizzling
- Optional: up to 4 ounces fresh arugula leaves
- Kosher salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 4 ounces feta cheese crumbled
Instructions
- Prepare the Watermelon: Begin by carefully removing the rind from the watermelon and cutting the flesh into uniform, bite-sized cubes roughly 1 inch square. Place these chunks into a large mixing bowl to hold the salad.
- Add Lemon Zest and Juice: Finely chop half of the lemon zest strips into small pieces, then add these along with the fresh lemon juice to the watermelon. This citrus infusion will brighten the natural sweetness of the fruit.
- Incorporate Fresh Herbs and Oil: Add the chopped mint leaves to the bowl, along with the extra-virgin olive oil. If you’re using arugula, gently fold in the leaves now. Toss the mixture gently but thoroughly to coat the watermelon evenly with the dressing and herbs.
- Season Lightly: Season the salad with a pinch of kosher salt and a few twists of freshly ground black pepper. Keep the salt minimal at this stage, since the feta cheese will add its own saltiness.
- Assemble and Garnish: Transfer the salad to a large, shallow serving dish or platter, spreading it out evenly for an attractive presentation. Crumble the feta cheese generously over the top, then sprinkle the remaining lemon zest strips for a fresh, colorful finish.
- Final Touches and Serve: Drizzle a little more olive oil over the salad and finish with a fresh grind of black pepper. Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp, refreshing flavors at their best.
Notes
- Choose Quality Feta: The flavor and texture of this salad rely heavily on the feta cheese. For best results, opt for authentic Greek or Bulgarian sheep’s milk feta, which tends to be creamier and tangier compared to cow’s milk varieties.
- Add Arugula for Heartiness: Including arugula not only adds a peppery contrast but also makes the salad more filling, perfect for serving as a light meal rather than just a side dish.
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Because feta is salty, it’s wise to add salt sparingly when tossing the salad and adjust later if necessary after adding the cheese.
- Serve Fresh: This salad is best eaten fresh and served cold. Avoid letting it sit too long, as watermelon can release water and dilute the flavors.
Chef’s Secrets to Vibrant Flavor
To make this watermelon salad truly exceptional, it’s all about ingredient quality and thoughtful preparation.
Start with a ripe, juicy seedless watermelon—look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a deep yellow spot where it rested on the ground.
When cutting the watermelon, aim for evenly sized chunks to ensure a uniform texture throughout the salad.
Use a sharp knife to avoid crushing the fruit, which can lead to a watery salad.
For the feta, seek out high-quality Greek or Bulgarian varieties made from sheep’s milk; their creamy, tangy flavor holds up beautifully against the watermelon’s sweetness.
Fresh lemon zest, rather than just juice, adds a fragrant citrus note that elevates the dish, and chopping it finely ensures it blends well without overpowering.
Lastly, add mint just before serving to preserve its bright green color and herbal punch.
Serving Suggestions for Best Enjoyment
This salad is perfect as a starter or side dish for summer meals, outdoor cookouts, or picnic spreads.
It pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken, lamb, or seafood—particularly shrimp skewers or grilled salmon—for a well-rounded plate.
You can also serve it alongside Mediterranean dishes such as hummus, pita, and olives for a refreshing balance.
If you want to make it more of a main dish, adding a handful of arugula or baby spinach makes it heartier and adds a peppery contrast.
Serve it chilled on a wide platter to showcase its bright colors, and if preparing for guests, garnish with extra mint leaves or edible flowers for a stunning presentation.
Proper Storage Tips and Advice
While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, it can be stored in the refrigerator if needed.
If you’re prepping ahead, cut and chill the watermelon, zest, and herbs separately and mix everything just before serving.
Once dressed, the salad will keep in an airtight container for up to one day, though it may become more watery over time as the fruit releases juice.
To refresh leftovers, drain any excess liquid and toss with a bit more mint and feta.
Avoid freezing this salad, as the texture of watermelon degrades once thawed.
For the best experience, serve the salad within a few hours of assembly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the individual ingredients a few hours in advance—such as cutting the watermelon, zesting the lemon, and chopping mint. However, it’s best to combine and dress the salad just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent it from becoming soggy.
2. What’s the best type of feta to use?
Sheep’s milk feta from Greece or Bulgaria is ideal for this salad due to its creamy texture and bold, tangy flavor. Avoid pre-crumbled feta if possible, as it’s often drier and less flavorful than block feta packed in brine.
3. Can I substitute the mint with another herb?
If mint isn’t available or preferred, fresh basil works beautifully and offers a sweet, slightly peppery twist. For a more adventurous option, try tarragon or Thai basil for unique herbal notes.
4. Is arugula necessary for this recipe?
Not at all! Arugula is optional and mainly included to add volume and a peppery bite. You can leave it out for a cleaner, fruit-forward salad or replace it with spinach or watercress for a milder green.
5. How do I keep the watermelon from getting mushy?
Use a sharp knife to cut the watermelon cleanly without crushing it, and avoid overmixing the salad once it’s dressed. If making in advance, store the cut watermelon separately and mix in dressing ingredients right before serving.
This recipe is inspired by seriouseats and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.