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Fresh Watermelon Feta Mint Salad with Zesty Lime Dressing

watermelon feta mint salad - featured image

A refreshing summer salad combining sweet watermelon, salty feta, and fresh mint, all tossed in a tangy lime dressing. Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for gatherings or light meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/3 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from about 2 medium limes)
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cut seedless watermelon into roughly 1-inch cubes (about 4 cups) and transfer to a mixing bowl.
  2. Thinly slice about 1/4 cup of red onion. For milder flavor, soak slices in cold water for 5 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
  3. Remove mint leaves from stems and roughly chop about 1/3 cup. Add to the bowl with watermelon and onion.
  4. In a small bowl or jar, combine 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice, 1 teaspoon lime zest, 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Whisk or shake vigorously until emulsified.
  5. Pour the dressing over the watermelon, mint, and onion mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly without crushing the watermelon cubes.
  6. Sprinkle 1 cup crumbled feta cheese on top and gently toss to distribute slightly without breaking up the cubes.
  7. Chill the salad in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before serving to let flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Use ripe but firm watermelon to avoid mushy texture. Fresh mint is essential for best flavor; avoid dried mint. If feta is very salty, reduce salt in dressing. For vegan version, substitute feta with plant-based cheese or marinated tofu and use agave syrup instead of honey. Add optional ingredients like toasted nuts or other herbs for variation. Toss gently to keep watermelon cubes intact. Best served fresh or chilled within 1-2 days; drain excess liquid before serving leftovers.

Nutrition

Keywords: watermelon salad, feta salad, mint salad, lime dressing, summer salad, easy salad, refreshing salad, healthy salad