Mediterranean Watermelon and Cucumber Salad with Feta
This delightful Mediterranean-inspired salad combines the sweetness of juicy watermelon with the crispness of English cucumber and the salty richness of crumbled feta cheese. A touch of kalamata olives adds depth, while fresh basil and mint leaves lend aromatic flavors that are perfect for summer gatherings. This refreshing salad is not only visually appealing but also a burst of flavors, making it an excellent choice for barbecues, picnics, or simply as a light meal on a warm day. Impress your guests with this vibrant dish that balances sweet, salty, and herbal notes beautifully.
6
Servings
47
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
watermelon
6 cups (cut into bite-sized pieces)
long English cucumber
3/4 cup (diced)
red onion
1/4 cup (finely chopped)
kalamata black olives
1/4 cup (finely chopped)
feta cheese
3/4 cup (crumbled)
fresh basil
1/4 cup (slivered)
fresh mint
1/4 cup (slivered)
balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons (none)
olive oil
2 tablespoons (none)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
Start by preparing the ingredients: Cut the watermelon into bite-sized pieces, dice the cucumber, finely chop the red onion and olives, and crumble the feta cheese.
2
Next, sliver the fresh basil and mint leaves. To do this, stack the leaves, roll them tightly, and slice them into thin strips.
3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the watermelon, cucumber, red onion, black olives, crumbled feta, basil, and mint gently to avoid mashing the watermelon.
4
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and salt until well combined.
5
Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
6
Serve the salad immediately for optimal freshness and flavor, or chill slightly in the refrigerator before serving if desired.
Nutrition Information
2.5g
Fat
5g
Carbs
1g
Protein
0.5g
Fiber
2.5g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mediterranean Watermelon and Cucumber Salad?
It is a refreshing summer dish combining sweet watermelon, crisp cucumber, salty feta, and Mediterranean flavors like olives and herbs.
What ingredients are needed?
You will need watermelon, English cucumber, red onion, kalamata olives, feta cheese, fresh basil, mint, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and salt.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 47 calories.
What type of cucumber is best for this recipe?
The recipe specifies using a long English cucumber for its crisp texture.
Can I use different olives?
While the recipe calls for kalamata black olives for depth, you can use other varieties, though it may alter the flavor profile.
How should I prepare the basil and mint?
Stack the leaves, roll them tightly, and slice them into thin strips to create slivers.
What ingredients are in the dressing?
The dressing is a simple mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and salt.
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can chill it slightly before serving, though it is best served immediately for optimal freshness.
Is this salad healthy?
Yes, with only 47 calories per serving and fresh ingredients, it is a healthy salad option.
What cheese is used in this Mediterranean salad?
Crumbled feta cheese is used to add a salty richness.
Can I substitute the feta cheese?
You could try goat cheese or a vegan feta alternative, though the recipe specifically recommends feta.
How should the watermelon be cut?
The watermelon should be cut into bite-sized pieces.
What is the purpose of the red onion?
Red onion adds a sharp flavor and crunch that balances the sweetness of the watermelon.
Does this salad contain fiber?
Yes, each serving provides about 0.5g of fiber.
Is there a substitute for balsamic vinegar?
While balsamic is recommended, lemon juice or red wine vinegar could be used as alternatives for acidity.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed (watermelon, cucumber, cheese, vinegar, oil, herbs), this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
How much fat does each serving contain?
Each serving contains 2.5g of fat.
Is there sugar in this recipe?
There are 2.5g of sugar per serving, primarily from the natural sugars in the watermelon.
Should I use fresh or dried herbs?
Fresh basil and mint are highly recommended for their aromatic flavors and texture.
How do I mix the salad without crushing the fruit?
Combine the ingredients gently in a large mixing bowl to avoid mashing the watermelon.
What occasions is this dish good for?
It is perfect for summer gatherings, barbecues, picnics, or as a light meal on warm days.
What is the preparation for the red onion?
The red onion should be finely chopped before being added to the salad.
How much olive oil is required?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
How much watermelon is used?
You will need 6 cups of watermelon cut into bite-sized pieces.
Can I add salt to taste?
The recipe suggests 1/2 teaspoon of salt, but you can adjust slightly to your preference.
Is this salad considered a light meal?
Yes, it is described as an excellent choice for a light meal on a warm day.
What makes this salad Mediterranean?
The combination of feta cheese, kalamata olives, cucumber, and olive oil gives it a Mediterranean flair.
How do I finish the salad?
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.