There’s something so refreshing about a salad that balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.
This Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad is crisp, juicy, and tossed with a zesty lime-honey dressing.
It’s the perfect side dish for summer cookouts or a light, colorful lunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s light, hydrating, and packed with fresh summer flavors.
The sweet watermelon pairs beautifully with salty feta and crunchy cucumbers.
A simple lime-honey-Tajin dressing ties everything together.
It comes together in just 15 minutes with minimal effort.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Watermelon brings sweetness and juiciness that makes the salad refreshing.
Cucumber adds crunch and a cooling balance to the melon.
Red onion gives a sharp, tangy bite for contrast.
Feta cheese provides a creamy, salty flavor that complements the fruit.
Lime juice, honey, and Tajin seasoning create a bright and zesty dressing.
Fresh mint leaves add a cooling finish if you choose to garnish.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Chill the watermelon and cucumbers before making the salad for maximum freshness.
Slice the onions very thin so they don’t overpower the dish.
Crumbled block feta has better flavor and texture than pre-packaged.
Dress the salad just before serving to keep it crisp.
How to Make Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad
Step 1 – Prep the salad base
Add watermelon, red onion, cucumbers, and feta cheese to a large mixing bowl.
Step 2 – Make the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lime juice, honey, Tajin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 3 – Toss everything together
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until evenly coated.
Step 4 – Garnish and serve
Top with fresh mint leaves if desired and serve immediately.
What to Serve Them With
Perfect alongside grilled chicken, steak, or seafood.
Pairs beautifully with BBQ dishes or burgers.
Enjoy it as a light lunch with crusty bread on the side.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap Tajin for chili powder and a squeeze of orange juice.
Use goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier finish.
Add avocado slices for extra creaminess.
Throw in fresh basil instead of mint for a different herbal note.
Storage & Leftovers
Best enjoyed fresh, as watermelon releases liquid over time.
If storing, keep salad and dressing separate in the fridge for up to 1 day.
Leftovers should be eaten within 24 hours for best texture.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but keep the dressing separate and mix right before serving.
What can I use instead of Tajin seasoning?
Chili powder with a little lime zest works well.
Can I use English cucumbers instead of mini cucumbers?
Yes, just slice them thinly and remove large seeds if needed.
What type of feta is best?
Block feta crumbled at home has the best flavor and creaminess.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes, replace honey with agave or maple syrup.
Does this salad work without onions?
Absolutely, but the onions add a nice sharp bite to balance the sweetness.
Final Thoughts
This Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad is the ultimate summer salad—juicy, tangy, and refreshing.
With only a handful of ingredients and a quick zesty dressing, it’s effortless yet impressive.
Once you try it, you’ll want to make it all season long.
Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine watermelon, red onion, cucumbers, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lime juice, honey, Tajin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is coated.
- Garnish with mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/watermelon-cucumber-feta-salad/
Notes
- For extra freshness, chill the watermelon and cucumbers before making the salad.
- Swap Tajin with a pinch of chili powder and lime zest if unavailable.
- Best served fresh, but you can prep the dressing ahead of time.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.