Fresh watermelon feta salad wasn’t always a staple at my summer table, but it only took one backyard BBQ to make it a tradition.
It was a blazing July afternoon. The grill was smoking, the lemonade sweating, and I needed something cold and crisp, yet bold enough to stand up to burgers and grilled corn. A friend showed up with a bowl of juicy watermelon tossed with salty feta, fresh mint, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. I didn’t think much of it, until the first bite.
It was electric. The juicy sweetness of the watermelon, the creamy tang of feta, the brightness of mint, it all just worked. And it wasn’t just a salad; it was a mood, a refresher, a reset.
Ever since that day, I’ve been obsessed with getting the balance just right. Whether you’re hosting, picnicking, or meal-prepping, this fresh watermelon feta salad is the kind of dish that steals the show.
Looking for more summer coolers? Check out our Watermelon Matcha Lemonade for another fresh twist.
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The Perfect Dressing for Watermelon Feta Salad
The dressing is key, it can elevate or overwhelm a watermelon feta salad. The trick is not to drown it, but to elevate those fresh, bold flavors.
Classic Balsamic Glaze
A rich balsamic glaze adds just the right amount of tang and sweetness. Drizzle it over the top, don’t mix it in, to preserve the salad’s texture.
Bright & Zesty Vinaigrette (Optional)
For something lighter, try a lemon-lime vinaigrette:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- ½ tsp honey or keto sweetener (optional)
- Pinch of salt and black pepper
Whisk and toss gently.
Pro Tip: A touch of lime or mint in your dressing makes this salad sing, especially on ultra-hot days.
Add-Ins That Take the Fresh Watermelon Feta Salad to the Next Level
If you want to impress or just add some flair, here are flavorful extras that blend perfectly with watermelon and feta:
Fresh Herbs
- Mint: The classic choice for its cool finish
- Basil: Sweet and aromatic
- Dill: Unexpected, but amazing with feta
Crisp Veggies
- Cucumber: Adds a fresh crunch
- Red onion: Offers a sharp contrast
- Arugula: Peppery and bold
- Jalapeño: For a little heat and contrast
Mix and match to fit your crowd’s tastes, or simply satisfy your own craving.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Fresh Watermelon Feta Salad
Ingredients:
- 4 cups seedless watermelon, diced
- ¾ cup crumbled feta (or cubes from block)
- Handful fresh mint leaves, torn
- Optional: cucumber, red onion, or arugula
- Dressing of your choice
Instructions:
- Chop the watermelon into bite-sized cubes. Pat dry with a paper towel to reduce moisture.
- Slice cucumbers/onions or prep herbs, if using.
- Gently combine the watermelon, feta, and fresh herbs in a large mixing bowl.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze or vinaigrette, just before serving.
- Top with fresh mint leaves or an extra sprinkle of feta for garnish.
Serve immediately and enjoy the compliments!
Can It Be Made Ahead? Yes, With a Few Smart Tweaks
Make-Ahead Tips
Watermelon releases water as it sits, so prep components separately:
- Dice the watermelon and store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh.
- Crumble feta and prep herbs
- Mix dressing and store in a jar
- Assemble just before serving
For picnics or meal prep, pack it in layers: watermelon on bottom, feta and herbs on top, dressing in a side container.
Nutritional Benefits & Why It’s a Smart Summer Choice
Watermelon feta salad isn’t just light and refreshing, it’s also packed with nutrients and helps keep you hydrated.
| Nutrient | Per 1-cup serving (approx.) |
| Calories | 120 |
| Carbs | 11g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Sugar (natural) | 8g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 260mg |
Health Highlights:
- Hydration: Watermelon is 92% water, perfect for hot days
- Calcium & Protein: Thanks to feta
- Low in calories: Yet super satisfying
- Balanced macros: Great for light eating or as a side
Looking for more fresh summer combos? Try our Watermelon Matcha Lemonade for a sippable pairing.
What to Serve With your Fresh Watermelon Feta Salad
This salad fits beautifully with grilled mains and Mediterranean-style dishes.
Grilled Proteins:
- Lemon herb chicken
- Garlic shrimp
- Grilled lamb skewers
- Tofu or halloumi (try our Crispy Halloumi with Tomatoes)
Fresh Side Dishes:
- Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad
- Couscous or quinoa
- Roasted chickpeas or pita crisps
Whether it’s a summer cookout or a light lunch, this salad completes the table.
For more recipes, follow us on Pinterest.
Fresh Watermelon Feta Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Dice the watermelon and pat dry.
- Slice add-ins if using (onion, cucumber, etc.).
- In a bowl, combine watermelon, feta, herbs, and any extras.
- Drizzle with dressing right before serving.
- Garnish with more mint or feta on top.
Notes
- Store ingredients separately if prepping ahead
- Try basil or dill for a fresh herb variation
- Use block feta for better texture than pre-crumbled
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120
- Carbs: 11g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 260mg
FAQs about Fresh Watermelon Feta Salad
What dressing goes with watermelon and feta salad?
A balsamic glaze is the classic go-to, but you can also use a citrus vinaigrette made with olive oil, lime or lemon juice, and a touch of honey. Keep it light, watermelon already brings sweetness.
How to make feta and watermelon salad?
Cube fresh watermelon, crumble in some feta, add chopped mint, and drizzle with your favorite dressing. Toss gently, then serve right away to enjoy the freshest texture and flavor.
Can watermelon salad be made ahead of time for feta?
Yes, but store ingredients separately to prevent sogginess. Assemble just before serving to keep it crisp and fresh.
What goes well with watermelon and feta?
Fresh mint, cucumbers, red onions, and herbs like basil pair well. It’s also fantastic with grilled meats or savory dishes like crispy halloumi or cucumber salads.
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