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watermelon salad

Watermelon Feta Salad Recipe

Watermelon Feta Salad is a fresh, colourful and refreshing summer dish made with juicy watermelon, creamy feta, fragrant mint and crisp red onion. Ready in just 10 minutes, this easy salad delivers a delicious balance of sweet, salty and tangy flavours, making it perfect for BBQs, picnics, family meals and warm-weather entertaining.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Continental
Servings 6 People
Calories 84 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Sharp Chef’s Knife
  • 1 Large Chopping Board:
  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Large Serving Spoon
  • 1 Small Jar or Drizzle Bottle

Ingredients
  

  • 6 cups cubed watermelon
  • ½ cup block feta cheese
  • ½ red onion -thinly sliced
  • ⅓ cup fresh mint leaves -chopped
  • Balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze -optional

Instructions
 

Step 1: Choose and Chill the Watermelon

  • Select a ripe watermelon with firm flesh and a naturally sweet aroma.
  • Choose one that feels heavy for its size, as this can indicate plenty of juicy flesh.
  • Refrigerate the watermelon before preparing the salad if possible.
  • A chilled watermelon creates a crisp and refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad.

Step 2: Cut the Watermelon

  • Wash the outside of the watermelon thoroughly before cutting.
  • Trim away the ends and cut the melon into manageable sections.
  • Remove the rind.
  • Cut the flesh into evenly sized cubes of roughly 2–3 cm.
  • Remove any obvious seeds.
  • Place the cubes into a large bowl.
  • If the watermelon releases excess liquid, drain it before continuing.

Step 3: Prepare the Red Onion

  • Peel half a red onion.
  • Slice it into very thin strips.
  • If the onion tastes particularly strong, soak the slices briefly in cold water.
  • Drain and pat them dry before adding them.
  • Thinly sliced onion provides balance without overpowering the delicate flavours of the Watermelon Salad.

Step 4: Prepare the Mint

  • Rinse the fresh mint leaves under cool running water.
  • Dry them gently using a clean kitchen towel.
  • Remove any tough stems.
  • Roughly chop most of the leaves while keeping a few whole leaves for decoration.
  • Fresh mint provides a vibrant aroma that dried mint cannot replicate.

Step 5: Prepare the Feta

  • Remove the feta from its packaging.
  • If it is packed in brine, drain it thoroughly.
  • Pat it gently with kitchen paper if necessary.
  • Break the feta into medium-sized chunks using your fingers.
  • Avoid crumbling it too finely, as larger pieces provide a more appealing texture.

Step 6: Combine the Main Ingredients

  • Add the watermelon cubes to a large mixing bowl.
  • Add the thinly sliced red onion.
  • Sprinkle over the chopped fresh mint.
  • Add the feta pieces last.
  • Use a large spoon to gently fold everything together.
  • Avoid vigorous stirring because the watermelon can break apart and release excessive juice.

Step 7: Add the Optional Finish

  • If using balsamic glaze, drizzle a small amount over the salad.
  • Add it immediately before serving rather than allowing the salad to sit in the glaze.
  • Taste carefully before adding additional seasoning because feta already contributes saltiness.
  • Keep the finish light so the watermelon and feta remain the main flavours.

Step 8: Chill and Serve

  • Transfer the finished Watermelon Feta Salad to a wide serving dish.
  • Scatter the reserved mint leaves over the top.
  • Serve immediately or keep chilled briefly before serving.
  • For the freshest texture, assemble the salad as close to mealtime as possible.

Notes

  • 🍉 Choose A Ripe Watermelon: Use a sweet, juicy watermelon for the best flavour, texture, and refreshing finish.
  • 🧀 Use Good-Quality Feta: Block feta gives the salad a creamier texture and more attractive chunks than finely crumbled feta.
  • 🌿 Use Fresh Mint: Fresh mint adds a bright, cooling flavour that balances the sweetness of the watermelon.
  • 🧅 Slice The Onion Thinly: Thinly sliced red onion provides a gentle sharpness without overpowering the delicate ingredients.
  • ❄️ Keep It Chilled: Refrigerate the watermelon before assembling to make the salad extra refreshing.
  • 🥄 Fold Gently: Combine the ingredients carefully to prevent the watermelon cubes from breaking down and releasing too much liquid.
  • 🍇 Add Balsamic Last: If using balsamic glaze, drizzle it just before serving for the best flavour and presentation.
  • ⏰ Serve Fresh: Assemble the salad close to serving time because watermelon naturally releases liquid as it sits.
Keyword Watermelon Feta Salad