Watermelon salad is a must-make fruit salad for summer. It’s simple, refreshing, and the perfect side dish for BBQs, picnics, potlucks, and more!
Why You’ll Love This Watermelon Salad
While a classic fruit salad is always in regular rotation on hot summer days, I often switch to making this watermelon salad when watermelon season hits. I really can’t get enough of this sweet fruit when it’s mixed with crisp cucumbers, creamy feta, and fresh mint. It’s cooling, hydrating, and the ultimate throw-together side dish. Here are a few other tidbits on why this watermelon salad is my favorite:
- Fresh feta beats crumbled feta. Many recipes call for crumbled feta, but I find that slicing a fresh block of feta into cubes tastes far better and looks extra presentable on a platter.
- It’s a crowd favorite for cookouts. I have a list of summer salad recipes that my friends and family love, but whenever I bring this to a summer outing (especially on the 4th of July), it’s always the first dish to disappear.
- It’s a seasonal superstar. And on sale during the summer! Pro tip: If you happen to have any leftovers from an extra-large watermelon, you can always make my watermelon smoothie or grilled watermelon as well!
Watermelon Salad Recipe Ingredients
- Watermelon: The key is to grab a perfectly sweet and juicy watermelon. If you need tips on how to choose one, check out the FAQ section below.
- Cucumber: I’m using English cucumbers for this salad, but Persian cucumbers work well too. Just note that regular field cucumbers have thicker skin, so I recommend peeling those if you plan to use them.
- Feta Cheese: A fresh block of feta is always best—just slice it into even cubes. You can also swap in goat cheese if you’re not a fan of feta.
- Herbs: Mint is a classic choice for a refreshing contrast to the sweet watermelon, but basil or dill are great options too.
- Dressing: A simple mix of olive oil, fresh lime juice, and honey gives this salad the bright, tangy-sweet oomph it needs.
Find the printable recipe with measurements in the recipe card below.
How To Make Watermelon Salad
Step one: Make the dressing by whisking the olive oil, lime juice, and honey in a small bowl.
Step two: Add the watermelon, cucumber, and mint to a large salad bowl. Then pour the dressing on top and stir together.
Step three: Leave the feta out until the end, because the more you stir it, the more it’ll break apart. If you’re not concerned with cubes of feta, you can, of course, opt for feta crumbles. If you do so, I’d probably use half the amount.
Common Questions
When choosing a ripe watermelon, I start by looking for one with a uniform, symmetrical shape. Avoid any with odd bumps or irregularities, which can indicate uneven ripening. The color should be a deep green rather than a pale or lime green shade. A creamy yellow spot on one side is actually a good sign—it shows the watermelon had time to ripen in the field. Lastly, I give it a tap or flick with my fingers. A ripe watermelon will sound deep and hollow, indicating it’s juicy and ready to eat!
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components up to 24 hours in advance. Store cut watermelon and cucumber separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Then, add the delicate ingredients like the feta and herbs just before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.
If you have any leftovers, you can store them for 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Just keep in mind that the dressing might water down the salad a bit.
More Summer Salad Recipes
- Classic Potato Salad: Nothing beats my mom’s tried and true recipe.
- Easy Cucumber Salad: Perfect accompaniment to grilled meats.
- Broccoli Salad: Always a crowd favorite!
- Caesar Salad: My homemade Caesar dressing is top-notch.
- Caprese Salad: A classic Italian salad that makes the best of fresh tomatoes.
- Or browse through my full list of salad recipes for more ideas!
If you make this watermelon salad recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out in the comment box below! Your review will help other readers in the community. And if you’re hungry for more healthy food inspiration and exclusive content, join my free newsletter here.
Description
Equipment
- Zwilling Chef's Knife My favorite chef's knife for seamless slicing.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 5 cups watermelon, cubed
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled, sliced and quartered
- 1 ¼ cups feta, cubed
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
Dressing Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 lime, juiced (about 2 tablespoons juice)
- 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions
- Make the dressing. Whisk the dressing ingredients together in a small bowl.
- Stir the salad. Stir the watermelon, cucumber, mint, and dressing in a large salad bowl.
- Add finishing touches. Add the feta and gently stir to combine. Garnish with additional mint if desired.
Lisa’s Tips
- Storage tip: If you have any leftovers, you can store them for 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Just keep in mind that the dressing might water down the salad a bit.
Nutrition
©Downshiftology. Content and photographs are copyright protected. Sharing of this recipe is both encouraged and appreciated. Copying and/or pasting full recipes to any social media is strictly prohibited.
Recipe originally posted July 2016, but updated with new photos and information for your benefit!
I made the barbacoa. My family loved it. My sister in law couldn’t believe I had made it. The recipe was easy to follow. I will surely make it again. Thank u
Hi Martha – Happy to hear everyone loved the barbacoa recipe! Can you leave a review on that recipe instead of this watermelon salad post? Thanks in advance!
This must be the most refreshing summer salad I have ever tasted! Simply delicious and so refreshing, especially on these very warm days!
You can’t beat a watermelon salad for a warm summer day! Glad you’re loving this one, Roula.
This was super easy and absolutely delicious! The dressing makes the dish!
Hi Danielle – Thrilled to hear you loved this watermelon salad!
I have made this 3-4 times in the last 2 weeks. It’s refreshing during the hot weather. So good! Today I added two jalapeño slices and let it chill in the dressing before putting the salad together. It gave it a little kick! If you try this, be careful as I added thin slices and they added just enough heat for me.
Love the little kick from the jalapenos, Lyn! Happy to hear this salad has become a summer staple.
Looks delicious
Give it a try and let me know how you like it, Susan!
I made this recipe and it was SOOO GOOD! I could not get over the flavor. This is a keeper for sure.❤️
This watermelon salad sure is a keeper! I’m glad you loved it, Sherri.
Thoughts on mint vs basil for a watermelon salad with feta?
I think basil would work great in this recipe as well, Diana!
Hi Lisa
Sounds and looks delicious. I would like to know can I use goat cheese instead of feta? Either way I’m making it 😀
Of course! That’s totally fine. Enjoy, Janette!
Great suggestion! I am going to try that!
Hi Lisa, I don’t have extra virgin olive oil, but would avocado oil would do? Or can I omit it?
Lisa, this salad is beyond scrumptious! I prepared it for lunch today during a hurricane in Florida. I happen to have all the ingredients on hand except the mint so I substituted fresh basil. It did not disappoint! So refreshing. We will definitely make this many times during our hot summer months.
Mint is also a great herb to add to this salad! Glad you loved it, Rit.
My family almost refused in advance to eat this since it just didn’t sound right to them. I made it anyway. I used crumbled feta instead of cubed, but everything else was as instructed. And sure enough, they all LOVED it. This is a light, refreshing, fun salad that I’m sure would be well received by most. Some people don’t care for feta, so it’s no problem keeping it separate and letting people add it if desired. Another winner. Thank you!!
Sometimes family just needs a friendly nudge, haha. ;) That’s awesome you made them converts to this delicious watermelon salad recipe!
Wow! What a delicious combination! Your recipes are always excellent as well as healthy. This is a huge hit; thank you!
Hi Joan – Happy to hear you’re loving this watermelon salad!
This was a flavor bomb in the mouth! I would never have thought to add anything to sweet watermelon because frankly, it’s already sweet. But the lime honey adds a zing, no other way to describe it. The mint adds freshness while the cucumbers add that bit of crunch. The feta adds a layer of complexity but I don’t think it even needs to be in it if you have someone with dairy issues.
Hi Esther – Happy to hear you’re loving this sweet and fresh combination!
I love your recipes Lisa. Thank you.
Hi Deb – Thanks so much!
Can’t wait to try this dressing. Hubby–‘s favorite salad. A change from balsamic.
THANK YOU!!
Hi Debra – Hope you both enjoyed this watermelon salad!
This recipe looks delicious and refreshing for the summer out door picnic. Thanks for sharing and I really appreciate it.
Hi Lita – It truly is the best summer salad!
This recipe was very simple to make and it’s very delicious and refreshing. Perfect to bring to backyard BBQ’s and also good for weekly meal prep.
Happy you enjoyed it, Deanna! It’s one of my favorite salads for backyard BBQ’s as well. So refreshing!
I have a major sweet tooth and the watermelon satisfies it not to mention the salty kick of feta ties it all together. Very fresh and perfect for summer. I made a large batch for the week but it’s taking a lot of restraint to not eat the only portion I made LOL SO GOOD!!
This truly is one of the best summer salads! Glad you’re loving it Lia.
Simple tasty and thirst quenching! Converted a picky eater as well-they even asked for the recipe! Non feta eaters, non lime fans line up and try this one. Too tasty to pass up! I learned to cut the rind from the whole watermelon and cube the whole watermelon for salad and a frozen smothie. Was easier than I thought!
Happy to hear this salad even satisfied the picky eaters, Donna!
Soooo good. Simple. Delicious. And perfect for summer. Love all your recipes. Thank you.
This really is the best summer salad!
For someone who loves fruit – this is a snack, meal, or even a desert. I can’t decide.
I usually put other fruits like strawberries on my salad but watermelon just hits the spot. Thank you Lisa for this delicious salad recipe ❤️
Glad you enjoyed this watermelon salad, Arta!
This has been a staple in our family for years but have not added honey before! Can’t wait to try!
Hope you enjoy this version Linda!
I made this watermelon feta salad for myself for lunch today and wow it knocked my socks off! The sweet watermelon paired with the slightly salty tangy feta was amazing. And the dressing was the perfect finishing touch. Thank you!
Happy to hear you enjoyed this watermelon salad Ashley!
Have wanted to try watermelon salad for ages, so finally made it. Hubby does not usually eat watermelon but he was very favourably impressed by this salad! Very light, fresh, delicious for summer menus!
Thanks for leaving a review Jennifer! This is definitely a staple summer salad :)
How many servings does this make? And was checking for serving numbers on other recipes and couldn’t find them.
This recipe makes 6 servings, which can be found in the recipe card below the prep time.
This summer salad really blew me away! It is so good and refreshing!! We loved it!! It’s really easy to put together and the dressing is perfect with the juice from the watermelon!!
So glad you enjoyed this summer salad Susan!
Thank you Lisa for this recipe! It is delicious as I sit here eating it for brunch minus the feta cheese though! I had watermelon in the fridge, went to the corner store dor a lime, and snipped some fresh mi t from the garden. I did not have extra vurgin olive oil but used regular olive oil and to enhance the flavor I also zested the lime before squeezing the juice out of the lime. A refreshing addition to brunch!! Thanks again.
Glad you enjoyed this watermelon salad Camille!
Absolutely fabulous! It goes well with chicken and beef. I omitted the mint but made my own balsamic glaze (which will rid any lingering smell in your house! 😆)
Glad you enjoyed this watermelon salad Dawn, especially with your homemade balsamic glaze :)
Very simple recipes to follow and tastes delicious and also healthy. Good combination of basic ingrey.
Glad you enjoyed this watermelon salad Kay :)
I’ve made this twice now. It is really good!! Different, but good.
Glad you’re enjoying this watermelon salad :)
Hi Lisa, I did “attempt” this watermelon salad but my watermelon was really watery. I may have cut the watermelon to small or maybe I needed to leave it sit on a towel. Any thoughts? Thanks, Carole
Hi Carole – your particular watermelon may have just been extra juicy and ripe, and the smaller cuts may have added to that. You can certainly drain off extra juices if they pool in the bottom of your bowl though. :)
There is always an excess of watermelon and cucumbers around our home in the summer and of course our mint grows out of control. This is quick, easy and so refreshing!
Hi Kathy – This salad is definitely a great way to utilize those leftovers :)
Our kitchen is being demolished – the minimalist changes – and this was so easy to put together. I was wondering if it would be too sweet but it’s refreshing, thirst quenching with the feta cutting out the sweetness to give it the right balance. This is something I’m going to make time and again – preluding to other meals as it is such a palate cleanser! Made it to go with your Mexican black bean pizza – delicious!
Sound like a perfect match with the Vegetarian black bean pizza. And yes, the feta definitely cuts the sweetness with a little salty. Love that combo! Glad you enjoyed it as well. :) x
This is such a great, refreshing summer salad! I left out the feta due to a dairy allergy and added cantaloupe. It is so delicious! Thank you for the recipe!
Recipes are all about making them work for you! Glad you enjoyed it Kristen! :) x
I love watermelon salads, so fresh and juicy!
They’re my favorite as well. :)
Simply beautiful. What a delicious combination of flavors (and colors)!
Thanks so much Valentina!
I even throw in some musk melon into the mix! But yep, this salad does scream summer! Love the colors.
Great idea – the more melon the better! Thanks!
what a refreshing salad, it sounds delicious and perfect for these warm days we are having
Agree! Watermelon is the best when it comes to summer salads. :)
This salad screams “summer!” I love the saltiness of the feta with the watermelon and cucumber. I think you are right about using less feta if it is crumbled. Of course, with the crumbles you can be pretty sure you will get a hit of salt with every bite.
It is the perfect summer salad. And great point about a little feta with every bite (which sounds good to me)! :)
Looks absolutely delicious!!! Perfect for a lunch in the sun (wherever it is… :( ) And I’ve nominated you in both categories. Of course!
Yes, you know I’m a fan of sunshine! ; ) And thanks soooo much for the nomination!! Big hugs. :) x
Love watermelon and feta salads – the cukes here make it THAT much more refreshing! Yum.
It’s a little bit of summer happiness in a bowl! ;) x
The title says cucumber and the ingredients say zucchini. I know they are in the same family, but is one better than the other?
Oops – good catch! It’s supposed to be cucumber in the ingredients. I’ve just fixed. Thanks so much! :) x
My pleasure! I forgot to mention the instructions as well. Not a huge deal!
I love your recipes, so please keep up the good work!
I must have had zucchini on the brain – ha! And I’m so happy to hear you love the recipes! :) x
So glad you had a nice holiday weekend! LOVE this refreshing summer salad recipe. Feta & watermelon are especially a wonderful pairing.
Thanks Liz! Hope you enjoyed the holiday as well! :) x
I made this for Bunco night and everyone loved it. Very refreshing summer salad. Thanks for another winner, Lisa!