Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, this salad is perfect for busy days.
- Hydrating: Watermelon is over 90% water, making this salad both refreshing and hydrating.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants, it’s a healthy choice.
- Versatile: Great as a side dish, appetizer, or light meal.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its vibrant colors and flavors make it a hit at gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup sliced red onion, cut lengthwise
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 15 cups cubed watermelon
- 3 cups cubed English cucumber
- 1 (8 ounce) package feta cheese, crumbled
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Cracked black pepper, to taste
- Sea salt, to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Marinate the Onions: Place red onion slices in a small bowl and pour over lime juice. Allow onions to marinate while assembling the salad.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine watermelon, cucumber, feta cheese, and cilantro. Season with cracked black pepper.
- Add Marinated Onions: Toss the marinated onions into the salad.
- Season and Serve: Season with sea salt just before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 15 servings.
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: Optional, but refrigerating for 30 minutes can enhance the flavors.
Variations
- Herb Substitutions: Swap cilantro for fresh mint or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Add Fruits: Incorporate berries like strawberries or blueberries for added sweetness.
- Nuts and Seeds: Add toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture.
- Dressing Twist: Mix in a teaspoon of honey or agave syrup for a touch of sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Cover and refrigerate the salad for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of watermelon changes upon freezing.
FAQs
What is the best type of watermelon to use for this salad?
Seedless watermelons are ideal for salads due to their convenience and lack of seeds.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it up to a day ahead. However, add the feta cheese just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy.
How can I make this salad spicier?
Add a finely chopped jalapeño or a sprinkle of chili flakes to introduce some heat.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, goat cheese or mozzarella can be used as alternatives to feta.
How do I prevent the salad from becoming watery?
After cutting the watermelon, place the cubes in a colander to drain excess water before adding them to the salad.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes, adding bell peppers or cherry tomatoes can enhance the flavor and texture.
How do I make this salad vegan?
Replace the feta cheese with a plant-based alternative or omit it entirely.
Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lime juice can be used as a substitute.
How do I make this salad spicier?
Add a finely chopped jalapeño or a sprinkle of chili flakes to introduce some heat.
Conclusion
This Refreshing Watermelon Salad is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, making it an excellent choice for summer gatherings or a light meal. Its simplicity and versatility allow for various adaptations to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this hydrating and flavorful salad as a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.
Refreshing Watermelon Salad
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 15 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Refreshing Watermelon Salad is a vibrant, hydrating mix of sweet watermelon, crunchy cucumbers, tangy feta, and fresh cilantro, all dressed in zesty lime juice. A perfect, nutrient-rich dish for hot days, ideal as a side or light meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup sliced red onion, cut lengthwise
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 15 cups cubed watermelon
- 3 cups cubed English cucumber
- 1 (8 ounce) package feta cheese, crumbled
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Cracked black pepper, to taste
- Sea salt, to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Marinate the Onions:
Place red onion slices in a small bowl and pour lime juice over them. Let the onions marinate while assembling the salad.
2️⃣ Combine Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, gently combine cubed watermelon, cucumber, feta cheese, and chopped cilantro. Season with cracked black pepper to taste.
3️⃣ Add Marinated Onions:
Toss the marinated onions into the salad.
4️⃣ Season and Serve:
Season with sea salt just before serving and enjoy!
Notes
- Make-Ahead Tip: Marinate onions and prepare the salad a day ahead; just add feta cheese before serving to keep it fresh.
- Herb Variations: Try mint or basil instead of cilantro for different flavor profiles.
- Sweetness Adjustment: Add honey or agave for a touch of sweetness to the dressing.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 days.
