You know those scorching summer days when the sun is relentless and all you crave is something crisp and cool? This watermelon cucumber salad is like a splash of refreshment on a sweltering afternoon. Juicy watermelon, crunchy cucumber, and a hint of mint—it’s a symphony of flavors that dances in your mouth, reminding me of lazy afternoons spent lounging in the shade, ice-cold drink in hand.
Steps
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of honey, 2 tablespoons of lime juice, 1 to 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
- Prepare the Salad Ingredients: Peel and cut half of a watermelon into cubes. Cube one English cucumber, and roughly chop 15 fresh mint leaves and 15 fresh basil leaves.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl or serving platter, mix the watermelon cubes, cucumber pieces, and the chopped fresh herbs together.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the previously made honey-lime dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure an even distribution of dressing.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese over the dressed salad. Serve immediately for the freshest taste and texture.
Ingredients
- Lime Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 to 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 watermelon, peeled and cut into cubes
- 1 English or Hot House cucumber, cubed (approximately 2 cups of cubed cucumber)
- 15 fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 15 fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (or more, according to taste)
FAQ
- Can I prepare the watermelon salad in advance?
- While you can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days, it’s best to serve the salad fresh. The high water content in watermelon and cucumber means the salad is most enjoyable when freshly made. If you have leftovers, store them in a tightly sealed container for up to one or two days, but check the taste before serving.
- What other ingredients can I add to the watermelon salad?
- This recipe is versatile and can be customized to your liking. Consider adding thinly sliced shallots or red onions for extra flavor, diced avocado for creaminess, or sliced hot peppers for a spicy kick. You can also sprinkle some Aleppo pepper flakes for a hint of heat with sweet undertones.
- What type of feta cheese should I use?
- For the best results, use creamy feta cheese packed in brine. It’s less salty and has a richer texture compared to already crumbled feta. Starting with a block of feta allows you to crumble it freshly, enhancing the salad’s overall taste.
- Is a dressing necessary for the watermelon salad?
- While the salad can be enjoyed without a dressing, the honey-lime dressing enhances the flavors and ties the ingredients together. The dressing is simple to make and requires just honey, lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
- What dishes pair well with watermelon salad?
- This refreshing salad is a great companion to grilled dishes, such as grilled chicken legs with garlic harissa, pork souvlaki, or chicken kebabs. It also pairs well with seafood options like salmon burgers or grilled swordfish, adding a cool and refreshing balance to spicy or rich main courses.
Tips
- Choose the Right Watermelon: To ensure your salad is as flavorful as possible, select a sweet and ripe watermelon. If you’re unsure how to pick one, consider looking up a tutorial or tips on selecting a ripe watermelon.
- Make Dressing Ahead of Time: Prepare the honey-lime dressing in advance and refrigerate it. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste of the salad when served.
- Add Ingredients Just Before Serving: To keep the salad fresh and prevent it from becoming watery, combine the watermelon, cucumber, herbs, and dressing right before serving.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize your salad by adding ingredients like avocado, thinly sliced shallots, or a sprinkle of Aleppo pepper flakes for extra flavor and texture.
Equipment
- Melon baller (if you choose to use it for the watermelon).
- Whisk (for mixing the dressing).
- Large serving platter with sides (for combining and serving the salad).
