Watermelon & Feta Cheese Salad Recipe

Watermelon and feta cheese salad is the perfect summer recipe! It gives you the chance to use a great summer fruit and prepare a summer salad that is great on its own, as a side dish or to prepare for summer garden parties. It is light and refreshing and pairs well with a number of different foods!

It’s fresh, quick to make and absolutely packed with flavor.

Why You'll Love This Watermelon Salad Recipe

This salad hits the balance between sweet, salty, tangy, and creamy. It's gluten-free, naturally vegetarian, and can easily be adjusted to be vegan or dairy-free with simple swaps. You can make this in around 15 minutes. It goes great at summer BBQs or as a quick and easy meal during busy weeknights!

Ingredients You'll Need For This Watermelon & Feta Cheese Salad

For the Dressing

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• ½ garlic clove, minced
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt

For the Salad

• 5 cups cubed watermelon
• 1 cup diced English cucumber
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
• ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 avocado, cubed
• ⅓ cup torn fresh mint or basil leaves
• ½ jalapeño or serrano pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
• Additional sea salt to taste

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To make this salad seamlessly, gather:

• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons
• Large serving platter or salad bowl
• Citrus juicer (optional, but helpful)

Step-by-Step Instructions For This Watermelon & Feta Cheese Salad

Step 1 – Make the Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• ½ minced garlic clove
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt

Tip: Let the dressing sit for 5 minutes after mixing. This mellows out the garlic and enhances flavor.

Step 2 – Assemble the Base Layer

On a large platter or shallow salad bowl, lay down:

• Cubed watermelon
• Diced cucumber
• Thinly sliced red onion

Tip: Watermelons are large and awkward. Use a pre-cut watermelon to save time (especially if you’re making this for a crowd).

Step 3 – Add Creamy and Zesty Toppings

Sprinkle over the base:

• Crumbled feta
• Cubed avocado
• Torn mint or basil
• Sliced jalapeño or serrano, if using

Flavor Boost: Toast your jalapeños briefly in a dry skillet to give them a smokier edge.

Step 4 – Final Drizzle and Serve

Drizzle half the dressing over the base layer before adding the toppings, then finish with the remaining dressing once fully assembled. Season with an extra pinch of sea salt if needed.

Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Results Every Time

• Use cold watermelon straight from the fridge for ultimate refreshment.
• Don’t overmix once the avocado is added it can turn mushy. So it is best to add the avocado at the end and not to stir the salad too much once added.
• Want more crunch? Add a handful of toasted pumpkin seeds or crushed pistachios.

Ingredient Swaps & Custom Variations

Fruit & Veggie Variations

• Swap watermelon for grilled peaches or strawberries.
• Add arugula or baby spinach for extra greens.
• Use Persian cucumbers instead of English if that's what you have.

Cheese Alternatives

• Use goat cheese for a tangier profile.
• Want it vegan? Try plant-based feta or skip cheese entirely and use toasted cashews for creaminess.

Herb Substitutions

• Basil gives a sweeter note; mint is more cooling.
• Don’t have either? Try a little cilantro for a bold twist.

What to Serve With Watermelon Feta Salad

This salad plays well with:

• Grilled chicken or shrimp
• Falafel and hummus plates
• Fresh baguette or pita
• Iced mint tea, crisp rosé, or even a watermelon margarita (yes, please!)

How to Store Leftovers (And Make It Ahead!)

If you expect leftovers, don’t add the avocado or dressing to the entire batch. Store undressed salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

To Make Ahead:
Chop everything except the avocado and herbs. Store ingredients separately and toss just before serving for max freshness.

Nutrition Info (Approximate)

Per 1-cup serving:

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 12g
  (Varies based on feta brand and avocado size)

Final Thoughts

This watermelon salad with feta cheese is the essence of easy summer elegance. It’s light, flavorful, and looks as good as it tastes—your guests will definitely ask for the recipe. Whether you're meal-prepping, feeding a crowd, or just treating yourself, this is a go-to you'll return to all season long.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Just prep and store ingredients separately. Add avocado, herbs, and dressing right before serving.

Can I skip the onion or jalapeño?

Absolutely. If you’re sensitive to spice or want a more kid-friendly option, feel free to leave them out.

Is this salad kid-friendly?

Definitely—especially without the jalapeño and red onion. Kids love the sweetness of the watermelon and creamy feta combo.

Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?

You can, but fresh lime juice makes a world of difference in flavor. Highly recommended if possible!

What’s the best feta to use?

Block feta in brine is creamier and richer than pre-crumbled versions. Look for high-quality Greek feta if you can find it.