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Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Feta and Mint

A crisp, refreshing salad perfect for hot days. The key is salting the watermelon and cucumber to draw out excess moisture so the salad stays firm and flavorful.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 185
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups seedless watermelon cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1 large English cucumber halved lengthwise and sliced 1/4-inch thick
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt divided
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon honey or agave nectar
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • chef's knife
  • cutting board
  • large bowl
  • colander
  • paper towels
  • small bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

  1. Place the cubed watermelon and sliced cucumber in a colander set over a bowl. Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon of the salt and toss gently. Let stand for 10 minutes. This draws out excess water so the salad doesn't get watery.
  2. After 10 minutes, gently press the watermelon and cucumber with paper towels to absorb the released moisture. Transfer to a large bowl.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
  4. Pour the dressing over the watermelon and cucumber. Add the feta and mint. Toss very gently to combine—overmixing will break the watermelon.
  5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes. The salad is best the day it's made.

Notes

Storage: This salad does not keep well overnight because the watermelon continues to release water. For best texture, serve within 2 hours. If you need to prep ahead, salt and drain the watermelon and cucumber separately, then combine with dressing and feta just before serving. For a dairy-free version, omit the feta or use a plant-based feta alternative. For a low-sodium option, reduce the salt to 1/4 teaspoon total.