Watermelon Feta Salad with Cucumber and Blueberries

This Watermelon Feta Salad with Cucumber and Blueberries is the ultimate refreshing summer dish. Sweet, juicy watermelon pairs perfectly with creamy feta, crisp cucumber, and bursts of blueberry goodness for a vibrant, flavorful salad. Tossed with a light honey-lime dressing and fresh mint, it’s perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a light side dish on hot days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing and hydrating Packed with water-rich ingredients like watermelon and cucumber.
• Sweet and savory The perfect balance of sweet fruit, salty feta, and fresh herbs.
• Easy to make Quick, simple, and requires no cooking.
• Beautiful and vibrant Eye-catching colors that make it perfect for entertaining.
• Customizable Add nuts, herbs, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 cups watermelon (cubed)
• 1 cup cucumber (sliced or diced)
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• ½ cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil (optional)

For the dressing:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the ingredients:

• Cube the watermelon, slice or dice the cucumber, and rinse the blueberries.
• Chop the fresh mint (and basil if using) finely.

2. Make the dressing:

• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

3. Assemble the salad:

• In a large bowl, combine watermelon, cucumber, blueberries, feta, and fresh mint.
• Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.

4. Chill and serve:

• Refrigerate for 1520 minutes before serving for maximum freshness.
• Garnish with extra mint and feta before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 15 minutes (optional)
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add avocado: Dice 1 ripe avocado for added creaminess.
• Balsamic glaze drizzle: Drizzle with balsamic reduction for extra tang and sweetness.
• Nutty crunch: Add ¼ cup toasted almonds, walnuts, or pine nuts for a crunchy texture.
• Spicy kick: Sprinkle with a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle heat.
• Vegan-friendly: Use vegan feta cheese and swap honey for maple syrup.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Best enjoyed fresh.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the fruit will lose its texture when thawed.
• Reheating: No reheating necessary—serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare all ingredients separately and mix them together with the dressing just before serving to keep the fruit fresh and crisp.

What’s the best type of cucumber for this salad?

English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers work best because they have thin skins and fewer seeds.

Can I use a different cheese instead of feta?

Yes, goat cheese or mozzarella balls (bocconcini) can be used as alternatives.

How do I keep the watermelon from getting soggy?

Pat the watermelon cubes dry with paper towels before adding them to the salad. Serve immediately after tossing with dressing.

Can I use frozen blueberries?

Fresh blueberries are recommended for the best texture, but thawed frozen blueberries can be used in a pinch.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

How can I make the salad more filling?

Add quinoa, chickpeas, or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.

Can I use lemon juice instead of lime?

Yes, lemon juice provides a similar tangy brightness if you don’t have lime on hand.

What herbs go well in this salad?

Mint and basil work beautifully, but you can also try cilantro for a different flavor profile.

How do I prevent the feta from becoming mushy?

Add the feta after tossing the salad to keep it from breaking apart too much.

Conclusion

This Watermelon Feta Salad with Cucumber and Blueberries is the perfect summer salad—refreshing, vibrant, and packed with flavor. With juicy fruit, crunchy cucumber, creamy feta, and a hint of fresh herbs, every bite is a perfect mix of sweet and savory. Whether served as a light lunch, side dish, or party appetizer, this colorful salad is sure to become a seasonal favorite!

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