Save A refreshing, vibrant salad featuring crisp cucumber, juicy watermelon, tangy feta, and a zesty chili-lime dressing—perfect for hot days and healthy cravings.
I often make this salad during summer gatherings because everyone loves its fresh and tangy flavors.
Ingredients
- Seedless watermelon: 3 cups cubed
- English cucumber: 1 large diced
- Red onion: 1/4 small thinly sliced
- Jalapeño: 1 small thinly sliced (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves: 1/4 cup torn
- Fresh cilantro leaves: 1/4 cup
- Feta cheese: 1/3 cup crumbled
- Extra-virgin olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Lime: Juice and zest of 1
- Honey or agave syrup: 1 tablespoon
- Chili flakes: 1/2 teaspoon adjust to taste
- Sea salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Freshly ground black pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large salad bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, diced cucumber, red onion, jalapeño (if using), mint, and cilantro.
- Step 2:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lime juice and zest, honey or agave, chili flakes, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- Step 3:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Step 4:
- Sprinkle crumbled feta over the top.
- Step 5:
- Serve immediately, or chill for 10 minutes for extra refreshment.
Save This salad always brings joy to my family picnic days and is a highlight during warm weather meals.
Notes
For added crunch, sprinkle with toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped pistachios. Substitute vegan feta for a dairy-free option.
Required Tools
Large salad bowl, small mixing bowl or jar, whisk or fork, chef's knife, cutting board
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 160, Total Fat 8 g, Carbohydrates 19 g, Protein 4 g
Save Serve this salad fresh for maximum flavor and texture every time.
Kitchen Questions
- → What makes this salad refreshing?
The combination of crisp cucumber, juicy watermelon, and zesty chili-lime dressing creates a cool and revitalizing flavor profile, perfect for warm weather.
- → Can I adjust the spiciness level?
Yes, the jalapeño and chili flakes can be modified or omitted according to your preferred spice tolerance.
- → Is there a suggested way to add texture?
Sprinkling toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped pistachios enhances the salad with a satisfying crunch.
- → Can the feta cheese be substituted?
You can replace feta with a vegan alternative to accommodate dairy-free diets without compromising flavor.
- → How should this salad be served?
It can be served immediately after tossing or chilled for about 10 minutes to enhance its refreshing qualities.