A crisp, juicy, and intensely refreshing salad: sweet watermelon, salty feta, creamy avocado, and cool mint, all lifted by a bright lime-and-olive-oil dressing. Ideal for hot days, picnics, and a light no-cook lunch.
Ingredients
- Watermelon — 400–500 g (14–18 oz), flesh, cut into cubes
- Feta or brined cheese — 150 g (5 oz)
- Cucumber — 1–2
- Avocado — 1
- Fresh mint — a small bunch
- Lime — 1/2, juiced
- Olive oil — 2–3 tbsp
- Salt and black pepper — to taste
How to Make
- Remove the rind from the watermelon, discard any large seeds, and cut the flesh into medium cubes. Transfer to a salad bowl.
- Slice the cucumber into half-moons or batons. Peel the avocado, remove the pit, and slice or dice it.
- Add the cucumber and avocado to the watermelon, then crumble the feta over the top, or cut the brined cheese into small cubes.
- Scatter over the finely chopped mint, drizzle with lime juice and olive oil, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Gently toss and serve at once, before the avocado starts to brown and the watermelon begins to release its juices.
Nutritional Value per Serving
| Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|
| ~275 kcal | ~8 g | ~21 g | ~16 g |
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Tips and Variations
- Cheese: feta brings a creamier, saltier note, while brined cheese is firmer and drier. Choose what you prefer.
- Acidity: you can swap lime for lemon, or add a little balsamic glaze for a sweet-tart accent.
- Texture: for extra crunch, add a handful of toasted pistachios, almonds, or pumpkin seeds.
- Herbs: basil or lemon balm work beautifully in place of mint; both pair well with watermelon.
- Serving: toss the salad just before serving so the watermelon stays crisp and doesn’t let out too much juice.
FAQ
What can I use instead of feta if I don’t have any?
Use brined cheese, goat cheese, or a soft mozzarella packed in brine. The key is to keep the balance between the sweetness of the watermelon and the salty cheese.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
You can cut the ingredients 2–3 hours ahead and keep them separate in the refrigerator. Combine and dress just before serving to preserve freshness and texture.
How do I choose watermelon for this salad?
Choose a ripe, sweet watermelon with firm flesh. It should be cold: chill the watermelon and cucumber before assembling for an especially refreshing salad.