A cool and refreshing watermelon salad that adds bright flavor to burgers, grilled chicken, seafood, and easy summer dinners.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Serves: 6
Difficulty: Easy
Best for: Summer lunch
Why You’ll Like It
This watermelon feta salad is light, fresh, and easy to prepare with minimal cleanup. The sweet watermelon, salty feta, and crisp cucumber create a refreshing side dish that balances rich grilled foods perfectly. It’s ideal for cookouts, weeknight dinners, and hot Alabama summer evenings when you want something quick and family-friendly.
Shop This Recipe
Pick up these ingredients at your local Piggly Wiggly:
- Fresh watermelon and produce department vegetables
- Feta cheese and refrigerated dairy items
- Fresh herbs and pantry staples
Optional module: Check the weekly ad for seasonal produce specials and summer grilling essentials.
This fresh watermelon feta salad combines sweet watermelon, crisp cucumber, tangy feta cheese, and refreshing mint for a light summer side dish. Perfect for cookouts, picnics, grilled dinners, and warm-weather gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
- 1 English cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
Pantry Staples
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Salt
- Black pepper
Optional Add-Ins
- Sliced avocado
- Balsamic glaze
Editor note: Group ingredients by how shoppers buy them: produce, dairy, fresh herbs, and pantry staples.
Instructions
- Add the watermelon, cucumber, red onion, and mint to a large serving bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, salt, and black pepper until combined.
- Pour the dressing over the watermelon mixture and gently toss until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the feta cheese over the top and lightly fold to combine without breaking the watermelon.
- Serve immediately or chill for 15 to 20 minutes before serving for extra freshness.
Food safety note: Keep watermelon salad refrigerated until ready to serve. Per USDA guidance, cut melon should not remain at room temperature for more than 2 hours, or 1 hour if temperatures exceed 90°F.
Piggly Wiggly Tip
Choose a ripe watermelon that feels heavy for its size and has a creamy yellow field spot for the best flavor and sweetness.
Make It Your Own
- For more heat: Add thinly sliced jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes.
- For a lighter version: Reduce the feta cheese or skip the olive oil dressing.
- For a cookout: Serve alongside grilled shrimp, burgers, or barbecue chicken.
- For leftovers: Blend extra watermelon into a refreshing summer smoothie.
What To Serve With It
- Grilled chicken skewers
- Lemonade or sparkling water
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Summer cookout favorites from #thepigbham
Storage And Reheating
Store: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container.
Reheat: No reheating needed. Serve chilled.
Use within: 2 days
FAQs
- Can I make this ahead?
Yes. You can prep the ingredients a few hours ahead, but wait to add the dressing and feta until just before serving for the best texture.
- What can I substitute for feta cheese?
Goat cheese or fresh mozzarella pearls work well if you prefer a milder flavor.
- How do I know when watermelon is ripe?
Look for a watermelon with a creamy yellow field spot, a dull rind, and a hollow sound when tapped.
Related Recipes And Guides
- Grilled Corn With Herb Butter
- Easy Backyard Burger Ideas
- Alabama Summer Produce Guide
- Refreshing Summer Drink Recipes
Ready To Shop?
Find everything you need for this recipe at your local Piggly Wiggly, then check the weekly ad for fresh savings on produce, grilling favorites, and summer essentials.