Ingredients
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6 cups watermelon, cut into bite-sized cubes
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1 English cucumber, sliced into thin rounds or half-moons
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6 oz feta cheese, crumbled
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1 lime, zested and juiced
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1 handful fresh mint leaves, chopped
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Sea salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Produce
Start by prepping your star ingredients. Cut the watermelon into small cubes—go for seedless if you can to save time and avoid crunching into unwanted bits. Slice the cucumber into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on the look and texture you prefer. For a more elegant presentation, you can even use a vegetable peeler to ribbon the cucumber. Rinse and chop the fresh mint leaves, keeping a few whole for garnishing if desired. Lastly, zest the lime before juicing it to retain maximum flavor.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing or serving bowl, combine the watermelon cubes, cucumber slices, and mint. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix gently so you don’t crush the delicate fruit. Then, crumble the feta cheese over the top. Its salty, creamy texture provides the perfect contrast to the sweetness of the melon and the crunch of the cucumber.
Step 3: Dress and Season
Drizzle the fresh lime juice over the salad, and follow with a sprinkle of the lime zest. This adds a citrusy brightness that enhances the flavors without overpowering them. Finally, season with a pinch of sea salt flakes and cracked black pepper. The salt helps bring out the natural sweetness of the watermelon, while the pepper adds a subtle warmth and depth.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
Give the salad a gentle toss to ensure everything is evenly distributed. Serve it immediately for the freshest taste and most vibrant texture. If you want to prep it ahead of time, you can cut and chill the ingredients separately, then assemble just before serving.
Notes
This salad thrives on freshness. It’s best eaten within a few hours of assembling, as the watermelon will release moisture over time. If prepping for a party, keep the components chilled separately and toss them together just before serving. For a picnic or potluck, pack the dressing in a small container and pour it over just before eating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
Nutrition
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g