If you’re searching for a vibrant and refreshing dish that captures the essence of summer in every bite, this Watermelon Salad with Cucumber, Avocado, Feta & Mint Recipe is an absolute must-try. The juicy sweetness of watermelon perfectly complements the creamy avocado, crisp cucumber, and tangy feta, all brightened up by fresh mint and a zesty lemon dressing. It’s a fresh, colorful celebration of flavors and textures that’s as simple to make as it is delightful to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about letting fresh, simple ingredients shine. Each component adds a unique note: the watermelon brings juicy sweetness, cucumber adds crunch and coolness, avocado lends creaminess, feta offers a salty tang, and mint infuses the salad with fragrant freshness.
- Mini watermelon: This is the star of the salad, providing natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Avocado: Adds a smooth, buttery texture that balances the crispness of other ingredients.
- English cucumber: Offers a refreshing crunch and lightness.
- ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese or feta: Delivers a creamy, tangy contrast that elevates the salad’s flavor.
- A handful of fresh mint: Brings a burst of aromatic freshness that ties all the flavors together.
- 1 lemon, juiced: Adds brightness and a gentle acidity to wake up the palate.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a smooth coating and deepens the flavor with its fruity richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors beautifully.
- Optional – 1 to 1.5 cups cooked quinoa: For added protein and a hearty twist, mix it in if desired.
How to Make Watermelon Salad with Cucumber, Avocado, Feta & Mint Recipe
Step 1: Scoop the Watermelon
Begin by slicing your mini watermelon in half. The easiest way to get lovely bite-sized pieces is to use a melon baller or a teaspoon to scoop out round watermelon balls. This not only makes the salad beautiful but also ensures every bite bursts with juicy sweetness. Keep the watermelon rind if you want to serve the salad in it later – it’s a fun and colorful presentation idea.
Step 2: Chop and Dice the Fresh Ingredients
Next, roughly chop the fresh mint, then dice the cucumber and avocado into bite-sized chunks. The mint will bring a refreshing lift, while the cucumber adds a satisfying crunch and the avocado contributes creamy richness. Add all these lovely ingredients into the bowl alongside the watermelon balls and crumbled feta or goat cheese. This layering of textures and flavors is what makes the salad so irresistible.
Step 3: Toss with Dressing and Season
Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Drizzle in the olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice, then gently toss the salad to coat every piece evenly without mashing the avocado. Taste your creation and sprinkle with salt and pepper as needed – this step is key because it balances all the bright and creamy flavors perfectly.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
For the ultimate presentation and summer vibe, serve the salad directly in the watermelon rind. It’s not only charming but keeps the salad cool and fresh. This salad is best enjoyed cold, making it a fantastic, refreshing dish for hot days or as a standout side at your next barbecue or picnic.
How to Serve Watermelon Salad with Cucumber, Avocado, Feta & Mint Recipe
Garnishes
To add a little extra wow factor, sprinkle on a few more fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of cracked black pepper just before serving. Toasted nuts like almonds or pistachios sprinkled on top also add a wonderful crunch and a nutty aroma that pairs beautifully with the creamy avocado and salty feta.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp, making it a perfect light complement to hearty summer meals. Alternatively, serve it alongside crusty bread or warm pita to scoop up every last delicious bite. If you’ve added quinoa, it can even stand on its own as a satisfying vegetarian main.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or picnic, consider layering the salad ingredients in clear glass jars or serve it in halved mini watermelons for a playful and eye-catching display. Wrapping small portions in lettuce leaves for handheld bites or skewering the components on cocktail sticks are also fantastic ways to enjoy this fresh salad with ease and style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because of the avocado and watermelon, it’s best eaten within a day to maintain freshness and texture. Keep the salad separate from any dressing for longer freshness and toss just before serving if possible.
Freezing
This Watermelon Salad with Cucumber, Avocado, Feta & Mint Recipe is best enjoyed fresh. Freezing isn’t recommended because the watermelon and avocado lose their texture and become watery or mushy once thawed.
Reheating
Since this salad is served cold and features fresh ingredients, reheating is not necessary or suggested. The bright flavors and crisp textures shine best chilled.
FAQs
Can I use regular watermelon instead of a mini watermelon?
Absolutely! Just cut it into manageable chunks or use a melon baller to scoop balls. Mini watermelons are convenient, but any watermelon works perfectly for this salad.
Is feta or goat cheese better for this salad?
Both options add a salty, creamy element. Feta has a sharper tang, while goat cheese is milder and creamier. Pick whichever suits your taste preference or what you have on hand.
Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?
You can chop and toss the ingredients a few hours before serving, but for the freshest taste, add the avocado and dressing just before serving to prevent browning and sogginess.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
Definitely! Simply omit the feta or goat cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative. The salad will still be vibrant and delicious.
What other herbs can I use if I don’t have mint?
Basil or cilantro can be exciting alternatives that each add their unique freshness. Try basil for a sweet, peppery edge or cilantro for a citrusy, green note.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly joyful about this Watermelon Salad with Cucumber, Avocado, Feta & Mint Recipe that makes it a sunlight-in-a-bowl kind of dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick side, a light lunch, or a crowd-pleasing salad for your next gathering, this recipe checks all the boxes. Give it a try and watch how these simple ingredients come together to create a spectacular flavor party you’ll want to revisit all summer long.
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Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This refreshing Watermelon Salad with Cucumber, Avocado, Feta, and Mint is the perfect summer dish. Combining juicy watermelon balls, creamy avocado, crisp cucumber, tangy feta cheese, and fresh mint leaves, all dressed in a zesty lemon and olive oil dressing, this salad offers a vibrant mix of flavors and textures. It can be served chilled in the watermelon rind for an attractive presentation and is optionally elevated with cooked quinoa for added protein and heartiness.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 mini watermelon
- 1 avocado
- 1 English cucumber
- ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
- 1 handful of fresh mint
Dressing
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- Salt + pepper to taste
Optional
- 1 – 1.5 cups cooked quinoa
Instructions
- Prepare Watermelon Balls: Slice the mini watermelon in half. Using a melon baller or teaspoon, scoop out watermelon balls and place them in a bowl. Retain the watermelon rind if you wish to use it for serving later.
- Chop and Combine Ingredients: Roughly chop the fresh mint leaves, dice the cucumber and avocado. Add these chopped ingredients, along with the crumbled goat cheese or feta, to the bowl with the watermelon balls.
- Toss with Dressing: Drizzle olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Gently toss all ingredients together to combine evenly.
- Serve: For an impressive presentation, serve the salad cold inside the reserved watermelon rind. Optionally, mix in cooked quinoa for a more filling variation. Best enjoyed chilled on warm days.
Notes
- Use a ripe but firm watermelon for best texture.
- Adjust lemon juice and olive oil quantities to your taste preference.
- Quinoa is optional but adds a good protein boost, making the salad more substantial.
- This salad is best served cold; refrigerate for 15-20 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor.
- Substitute goat cheese with feta for a slightly different tangy flavor.
