This Refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad combines juicy watermelon, crisp cucumber, and sweet blueberries for a burst of flavor! The salty feta adds a lovely twist, making it a perfect summertime treat.
It’s super easy to whip up and oh-so-refreshing on warm days! I love serving it at picnics. Just toss it together, and you’re ready to impress your friends—and yourself! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: The star of the salad! Use a sweet, ripe watermelon for the best flavor. If watermelon isn’t available, cantaloupe or honeydew can be a nice alternative.
Cucumber: Fresh cucumber adds a crisp texture. English cucumbers are great as they have fewer seeds. If you need a substitute, zucchini can work, but it will change the flavor slightly.
Blueberries: These tiny fruits offer sweetness and a pop of color. If blueberries aren’t available, you can swap them for raspberries, or even diced strawberries for a different twist.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a salty tanginess. If you want a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu seasoned with lemon juice. For a different cheese flavor, goat cheese could also work.
How Do You Ensure the Best Flavor Balance?
Balancing flavor is key in this salad, especially since watermelon is sweet, and feta is salty. When preparing, make sure to toss the ingredients gently to mix flavors without breaking apart the watermelon cubes.
- Combine salad ingredients in a large bowl, ensuring even distribution.
- Whisk together olive oil and lemon juice for a bright dressing. Freshly squeezed lemon makes a notable difference!
- Taste your salad before serving. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Remember that feta already adds saltiness, so go easy on the salt initially.
Chilling the salad for 15-20 minutes before serving helps meld the flavors. It’ll be even more refreshing!
Refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad with Cucumber and Blueberries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large cucumber, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch slices or half-moons
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 cup feta cheese, cut into small cubes or crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you want to chill it in the refrigerator for extra freshness, allow an additional 15-20 minutes. So in total, you can whip this salad up in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, start by adding the cubed watermelon, sliced cucumber, fresh blueberries, and feta cheese. This creates a beautiful base of colors and textures!
2. Add the Fresh Herbs:
Next, sprinkle in the chopped fresh basil leaves. This will add a delicious, aromatic flavor to your salad.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice until well combined. This dressing will bring everything together with a zesty touch!
4. Drizzle the Dressing:
Now, gently drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients in the mixing bowl. Be careful to not crush the delicate ingredients while mixing.
5. Toss and Taste:
Gently toss the salad to evenly coat all ingredients with the dressing. After mixing, taste the salad. Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed, remembering that the feta adds its own saltiness.
6. Serve it Up:
Transfer the colorful salad to a serving bowl or individual plates. For a finishing touch, garnish with additional fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
7. Enjoy!
Serve immediately as a bright, refreshing side dish or appetizer. If you prefer it even cooler, chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving. Enjoy this delightful medley of sweetness and savory goodness—perfect for warm, sunny days!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! While watermelon, cucumber, and blueberries are featured, feel free to mix in other fruits like strawberries, peaches, or even mango for a different flavor profile. Just keep the sweetness in mind when choosing fruits to maintain balance!
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It should stay fresh for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that the watermelon may release some water, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. Combine everything within a few hours before serving for optimal freshness and flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, try using crumbled tofu seasoned with a bit of salt and lemon juice for a similar tang. Alternatively, goat cheese or even a sharp cheddar can work, but they will change the overall flavor of the salad.
