Watermelon Salad with Feta

This cool and refreshing watermelon salad with feta hits all the right notes for warm weather It is juicy crisp salty and tangy with just a hint of honeyed sweetness making it the dish I crave for picnics or dinners on the patio

Ingredients

• Watermelon: cubed seedless gives the salad its sweet and hydrating crunch pick one that feels heavy for its size to ensure it is juicy
• English cucumber or Persian cucumber: delivers fresh texture and mild flavor choose firm cucumbers with a glossy skin
• Feta: crumbled brings creamy salty contrast look for blocks of feta packed in brine for the freshest taste
• Fresh basil: chopped provides herbal brightness opt for leaves with no wilting or dark spots
• Watermelon juice: reserved from the fruit itself keeps the dressing light and extra flavor packed
• Fresh lime juice: enlivens every bite squeeze your own for the brightest taste
• Fresh cracked pepper: adds subtle heat grind it just before using
• Salt: sharpens and balances the natural sweetness use sea salt if you have it
• Tajin seasoning (optional): offers a gentle chili kick and citrus tang use a fresh bottle for best flavor
• Honey: is the sweetener in the dressing pick a local varietal if possible
• Whole grain mustard: gives a gentle bite and depth look for a mustard with whole seeds for texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Watermelon and Juice:

Cube the watermelon into small even pieces about bite sized removing any seeds and rind Place all cubes in a large bowl and reserve about a quarter cup of juice in a small mixing bowl by muddling a few cubes if needed

Chop the Vegetables and Herbs:

Chop the cucumber into small cubes similar to the watermelon and finely chop the basil Add both to the large bowl with the watermelon cubes and top with the crumbled feta

Make the Honey Lime Dressing:

In the bowl with watermelon juice combine lime juice honey whole grain mustard salt and pepper Whisk everything thoroughly so the honey fully dissolves Taste and add extra honey or mustard until you find your perfect balance

Toss the Salad:

Pour the dressing over the watermelon cucumber and feta mixture Gently toss with a large spoon or your hands to combine being careful not to break up the feta too much

Serve and Garnish:

Transfer to a serving platter or bowl Add extra lime slices and a sprinkle of tajin if using Serve right away for the crispiest texture

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You Must Know

This salad is loaded with antioxidants and vitamins thanks to watermelon and basil High water content keeps it hydrating on hot days Best enjoyed the same day you make it to keep the textures crisp and vibrant Feta is my favorite ingredient here because its tang cuts through the sweetness of the watermelon creating my favorite sweet and salty balance I still remember the first time I served this at a family picnic it disappeared before anything else on the table

Storage Tips

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days The salad does release liquid as it sits so give it a gentle toss before serving again Avoid freezing as the fresh textures will be lost

Ingredient Substitutions

Try goat cheese or cotija if you are out of feta For herbs mint works beautifully instead of basil If you do not have tajin a little chili powder and lime zest offer a similar effect

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad as a side for grilled meats or fish It brightens up heavier dishes and looks gorgeous alongside summer spreads Add a handful of arugula or baby greens to bulk it out as a light lunch

A Nod to Tradition

This salad has roots in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cooking where fresh fruit cheese and herbs are classic partners Many cultures embrace sweet salty and herbal combinations to balance the season’s bounty

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English or Persian cucumbers?

Yes, regular cucumbers can be used. However, it’s best to peel them and remove the seeds for a better texture and taste.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you don't have feta, try using goat cheese or queso fresco for a similar tangy and creamy flavor.

→ How do I store leftover salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind the texture may change slightly as the watermelon releases more juice.

→ Can I prepare the salad in advance?

You can prepare the components ahead of time, but mix the dressing and toss the salad just before serving to retain the best texture and freshness.

→ Is there a way to make the dressing less sweet?

Yes, you can reduce the amount of honey or omit it entirely if you prefer a more tangy dressing.

→ What does tajin seasoning add to the salad?

Tajin adds a mild spicy and tangy kick that enhances the watermelon’s sweetness and complements the lime in the dressing.