Refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad: Your Ultimate Easy Summer Side Dish Recipe
Experience the quintessential taste of summer with this incredibly refreshing and easy-to-make Watermelon Feta Salad. This vibrant dish perfectly marries the sweet, juicy burst of fresh watermelon with the tangy, creamy, and salty notes of feta cheese, creating a flavor symphony that is truly unforgettable. Enhanced with fragrant fresh basil and mint, and dressed in a simple yet zesty vinaigrette, this salad is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of warm weather gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a casual picnic, or simply looking for a light and delicious side, this Watermelon Feta Salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that comes together in mere minutes.
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About This Watermelon Feta Salad: A Summer Essential
Watermelon isn’t just a fruit; it’s a vibrant symbol of summer, a culinary beacon that signals long, sunny days and relaxed outdoor gatherings. For me, it’s an absolute must-have at any summer event, from a casual backyard cookout to a festive family reunion. The mere thought of watermelon instantly transports me back to cherished childhood memories – the thrill of selling lemonade with friends on sweltering afternoons, or the blissful anticipation of “adult swim time” finally ending so we could splash around in the cool pool water. Through all these vivid flashbacks, one sensation remains constant: the unparalleled taste of fresh, sweet watermelon, its juice wonderfully dripping down my chin.
While a simple slice of watermelon is undeniably perfect on its own, sometimes you crave a dish that offers a more complex and unexpected flavor profile. This is where the Watermelon Feta Salad truly shines. It takes the familiar sweetness of watermelon and elevates it to an entirely new level by introducing the salty, creamy notes of feta cheese and the refreshing zest of fresh herbs. This unique combination creates a delightful contrast that is tangy, incredibly simple to assemble, and utterly irresistible. It stands out from traditional green salads, offering a light yet satisfying alternative that complements a wide array of grilled meats and hearty main courses.
If you haven’t yet experienced the magical pairing of watermelon and feta, prepare to have your taste buds awakened. It’s akin to the way a pinch of salt sprinkled on fresh watermelon enhances its sweetness – a simple trick that amplifies the fruit’s natural sugars in an astonishing way. However, feta takes this concept a step further. Beyond just adding saltiness, it introduces a luscious creaminess that provides a beautiful textural counterpoint to the crisp, refreshing bite of the watermelon. This creamy, salty contrast against the sweet fruit, brightened by fresh herbs, makes this salad a standout.
One of the most appealing aspects of this Watermelon Feta Salad is the sheer simplicity of its ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, allowing its individual flavors to shine through without being overpowered. This makes it an incredibly easy yet sophisticated addition to any summer meal, requiring minimal effort but delivering maximum impact. In fact, this delightful four-ingredient salad (not counting the dressing) comes together in mere minutes, making it the perfect last-minute option for busy hosts or impromptu gatherings.
This versatile salad pairs wonderfully with robust, smoky dishes fresh off the grill. Imagine serving it alongside succulent smoked pork loin, hearty pulled pork burgers, or tender BBQ apple cider ribs. To complete the ultimate summer dining experience, wash it down with a crisp, refreshing orange crush cocktail. It’s a combination that truly embodies the spirit of summer!
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Watermelon Feta Salad
Crafting this phenomenal salad requires a few carefully selected, fresh ingredients. Here’s a deeper dive into what you’ll need and why each component is vital:
- Watermelon: You’ll need approximately 6 cups of fresh watermelon chunks. For the best experience, I highly recommend using a seedless watermelon. This allows you to fully enjoy each juicy bite without the hassle of spitting out those large, chunky black seeds. Look for a ripe, firm melon for optimal sweetness and texture.
- Fresh Herbs: The aromatic backbone of this salad comes from a delightful combination of fresh basil and fresh mint. Basil provides a sweet, slightly peppery note, while mint adds a cool, invigorating zest. These herbs are non-negotiable for achieving that signature refreshing flavor. Make sure they are vibrant green and free from wilting.
- Feta Cheese: My personal preference is to use a block of feta cheese, typically found in 4-ounce portions at most grocery stores. Cutting the feta into your own chunks provides a superior texture and a creamier mouthfeel compared to pre-crumbled feta, which can sometimes be drier. However, if convenience is key, crumbled feta cheese will certainly work and still deliver that essential salty kick.
- Lime Juice: For the dressing, fresh lime juice is always paramount. Its bright, tart flavor provides the perfect counterpoint to the watermelon’s sweetness. While bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch, fresh juice offers an unparalleled vibrancy. If you don’t have limes, fresh lemon juice is a good substitute.
- Vinegar: I lean towards champagne vinegar for this recipe due to its delicate, subtle acidity that doesn’t overpower the other flavors. Alternatively, white wine vinegar is an excellent and readily available substitute that offers a similar gentle tang.
- Honey: To balance the acidity of the dressing and further enhance the watermelon’s sweetness, a touch of honey is included. If you prefer a vegan option or have a different sweetener on hand, agave nectar works beautifully as a direct substitute.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: The dressing calls for extra-virgin olive oil. Since the dressing is made with a limited number of ingredients, the quality of your olive oil will significantly impact the overall flavor. Opt for a good quality extra-virgin olive oil to ensure a rich, fruity undertone.
Essential Equipment for This Watermelon Feta Salad Recipe
One of the many joys of this Watermelon Feta Salad is how little specialized equipment it requires. You likely already have everything you need right in your kitchen! To get started, gather these simple tools:
- Mixing Bowls: A set of sturdy mixing bowls in various sizes will be your best friend. You’ll need one small bowl for whisking together the dressing ingredients and a larger bowl for combining all the salad components.
- Whisk: A good whisk is essential for emulsifying the dressing ingredients, ensuring they are thoroughly combined into a smooth, cohesive mixture. A French wire whisk is a classic choice.
- Cutting Board: A reliable organic bamboo cutting board provides a stable and clean surface for all your chopping needs.
- Chef’s Knife: A sharp chef’s knife is crucial for safely and efficiently dicing the watermelon into uniform cubes, chiffonading the basil, finely chopping the mint, and cutting the feta into neat chunks.
- Measuring Spoons & Cups: To ensure accuracy with your dressing ingredients, keep your measuring spoons and measuring cups handy.
With these basic kitchen tools, you’ll be well on your way to whipping up this sensational summer salad in no time!
How to Make Watermelon Feta Salad: Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating this delicious and refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad is incredibly straightforward, involving just a few simple steps. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together, making it an ideal choice for any last-minute summer meal.
1. Prepare the Zesty Dressing
In a small bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients: fresh lime juice, champagne vinegar (or white wine vinegar), honey (or agave), and extra-virgin olive oil. Vigorously whisk these components together until they are well combined and the mixture is slightly emulsified. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference. Set the dressing aside while you prepare the salad components.
2. Assemble the Refreshing Salad
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the main ingredients for the salad: the perfectly cubed watermelon, the fragrant chiffonade basil (cut into thin strips), the freshly chopped mint leaves, and the creamy feta cheese chunks. Handle the ingredients with care to prevent the watermelon from bruising and to keep the feta from crumbling excessively. Once combined, pour the prepared dressing evenly over the salad mixture. Using large serving spoons or your clean hands, gently toss everything together until all the watermelon, feta, and herbs are lightly coated with the zesty dressing. Give it a final taste and add a little extra salt and pepper if desired, keeping in mind the saltiness of the feta.
3. Serving Suggestions
This Watermelon Feta Salad is at its peak when served immediately after preparation, ensuring the watermelon remains crisp and the flavors are at their freshest. However, if you prefer to allow the flavors to meld a bit more, or if you need to transport it, you can cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for approximately 1 hour before serving. A short chill can enhance the refreshing quality of the dish, but avoid chilling for too long to prevent the watermelon from releasing too much liquid.
Expert Tips & Creative Ideas for Your Watermelon Feta Salad
Making this Watermelon Feta Salad is already simple, but these tips and ideas will help you customize it and ensure it’s always at its best:
- Smart Prep Ahead of Time: While the assembled salad is best served fresh, you can definitely do some prep work in advance. Cut the watermelon into chunks and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also prepare the dressing up to 3 days ahead and store it separately in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the pre-cut watermelon, fresh herbs, feta, and dressing. This strategy is perfect for busy entertainers!
- Introduce a Hint of Heat: If you enjoy a touch of spice to liven up your refreshing dishes, consider adding some finely chopped jalapeño or serrano pepper to the salad. Start with a small amount and adjust to your preferred level of heat. The subtle kick will create an exciting contrast with the sweet watermelon and creamy feta.
- Personalize Your Salad: This recipe is incredibly versatile and open to customization.
- Add Greens: For a more substantial salad, toss in a handful of fresh arugula or baby spinach. Their peppery or mild flavors will beautifully complement the existing ingredients.
- Boost the Crunch: Craving more texture? Sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds! Sliced almonds, chopped pistachios, or even sunflower seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Deepen the Flavor: A light drizzle of high-quality balsamic glaze just before serving can add a wonderful depth and a touch of sophisticated sweetness that works surprisingly well with the watermelon and feta.
- Explore Other Fruits: While watermelon is the star, don’t hesitate to experiment with other summer fruits like cantaloupe, honeydew, or even fresh berries for a varied fruit salad twist.
Craving more fantastic salad recipes? Explore these delightful options: Burrata Caprese Salad | Melon Prosciutto Salad | Bacon Grilled Corn Salad | Mojo Steak Salad
Can I Substitute Feta Cheese in This Watermelon Salad? What Are My Options?
While feta cheese is undeniably a star in this salad, offering its unique salty, tangy, and creamy profile, there are indeed other cheese options you can explore if you’re looking for a different flavor or simply don’t have feta on hand. Here are a few suggestions:
- Crumbled Feta: As mentioned, if a whole block of feta (which allows for superior chunking and texture) isn’t available, pre-crumbled feta can be used. Just be aware that its texture might be a bit drier, and the saltiness can vary between brands, so taste and adjust your dressing accordingly.
- Halloumi Cheese: This is an excellent alternative! Halloumi is a semi-hard, unripened brined cheese that has a higher melting point, making it perfect for grilling or frying. For this salad, you can cube it and add it as is for a softer, slightly less crumbly texture than feta, but with a similar salty kick. You can even lightly grill or pan-sear the halloumi cubes first for a warm, savory element that contrasts beautifully with the cool watermelon.
- Goat Cheese (Chevre): For a milder, more earthy, and tangier flavor, soft goat cheese would be a lovely substitute. Its creamy, almost spreadable texture would melt beautifully into the salad, creating a different but equally delightful mouthfeel. Choose a firm goat cheese log and crumble it or slice it into discs.
- Cotija Cheese: If you’re looking for a firm, salty, and crumbly cheese with a stronger savory profile, Mexican cotija cheese could be an interesting choice. It won’t offer the creaminess of feta, but its distinct saltiness and crumbly texture would still provide a great contrast to the sweet watermelon.
- Fresh Mozzarella (Bocconcini): For a much milder and softer option, small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) could be used. These would contribute a fresh, milky flavor and a very tender texture, though you would lose the distinct salty tang that feta provides. In this case, you might want to enhance the dressing with a bit more salt or a stronger herb component.
Each of these substitutions will alter the salad’s flavor and texture slightly, so choose the one that best suits your palate or what you have available.
How to Pick the Perfect Ripe and Sweet Watermelon for Your Salad
The success of your Watermelon Feta Salad largely depends on the sweetness and ripeness of your watermelon. Luckily, selecting a perfectly ripe melon is quite simple once you know what to look for! Here are a few key indicators to guide you:
- Check the Weight: Pick up the watermelon. A ripe watermelon should feel noticeably heavy for its size. This indicates that it’s full of water and sugar, which translates to juiciness and flavor. If it feels light, it’s likely dry and underripe.
- Tap for Sound: Give the underside of the watermelon a firm tap with your knuckles. A ripe melon will produce a deep, hollow sound – almost like a drum. If the sound is dull, flat, or thud-like, it might be overripe or underripe. Practice on a few melons to get a feel for the ideal sound.
- Examine the Field Spot: Look for a large, yellowish spot on the underside of the watermelon. This is called the “field spot” or “ground spot,” and it’s where the watermelon rested on the ground as it ripened in the sun. A creamy yellow or even slightly orange spot indicates that the melon spent a good amount of time ripening on the vine. If the spot is white or very pale green, the watermelon was likely picked too early and won’t be as sweet.
- Look for Webbing and Dry Spots: Don’t be afraid of “imperfections”! Many dry spots and intricate vein-like webbing across the surface of the watermelon are actually indicators of sweetness. These marks show where bees pollinated the flower, and the more pollination, the sweeter the fruit. Avoid melons that look perfectly shiny and smooth, as they may lack flavor.
- Uniform Color: A ripe watermelon should generally have a deep, consistent color. The stripes should be distinct and vibrant green against a lighter green or yellowish background.
- Peak Season Matters: While these tips help year-round, always remember that watermelon is at its best during its peak growing season, which typically runs from May through September. Buying in season significantly increases your chances of getting a sweet, flavorful melon.
By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to confidently select a watermelon that will make your salad truly shine!
What is the Best Dressing for Watermelon Basil Salad?
The dressing for a Watermelon Basil Salad is crucial; it needs to complement, not overpower, the delicate and refreshing flavors of the main ingredients. For this particular Watermelon Feta Salad, I utilize a light and bright honey-lime vinaigrette that perfectly enhances the sweet and savory elements.
The full recipe for this vibrant dressing is detailed in the recipe card below, but here’s a breakdown of its components and why they work:
- Fresh Lime Juice: Provides a sharp, citrusy tang that cuts through the sweetness of the watermelon and the richness of the feta, adding a much-needed brightness.
- Champagne Vinegar (or White Wine Vinegar): Offers a gentle acidity that is less harsh than other vinegars, allowing the natural flavors of the fruit and herbs to remain prominent.
- Honey (or Agave): A touch of sweetness to balance the tartness of the lime and vinegar, creating a harmonious flavor profile that marries beautifully with the watermelon.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Acts as the base of the vinaigrette, carrying the flavors and adding a smooth, subtle richness. Using a good quality olive oil is recommended as its flavor will come through.
This simple combination creates a dressing that is light, zesty, and refreshing – exactly what you want with this summer salad. It’s designed to elevate the natural goodness of the watermelon, basil, mint, and feta without masking them.
Quick & Easy Alternative: If you find yourself short on some dressing ingredients or simply want an even simpler approach, you can achieve a delicious result by merely squeezing fresh lime juice directly over the assembled salad and drizzling a good quality extra-virgin olive oil. A sprinkle of salt and pepper will complete this minimalist, yet effective, enhancement.
Other potential dressing ideas that could work, depending on your preference, include a light balsamic glaze (drizzled sparingly), a mint-infused olive oil, or even a very subtle ginger-lime dressing for an Asian-inspired twist.
How Long Does Watermelon Feta Salad Last? Storage Tips for Freshness
For the absolute best taste and texture, I highly recommend serving this Watermelon Feta Salad as soon as it’s prepared. The longer the salad sits, especially after being dressed, the more the watermelon will begin to release its natural juices. This can lead to a slightly watery consistency and a less crisp texture, which detracts from the salad’s refreshing appeal.
Storing Leftovers: If you happen to have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s important to note that the quality will diminish over time. You will likely observe a noticeable amount of liquid pooling at the bottom of the container. For optimal flavor and a better eating experience, I strongly recommend straining out any excess liquid that has seeped out before dishing up the salad again. This simple step will help maintain as much of the original flavor and texture as possible.
Tips for Maximizing Freshness:
- Dress Just Before Serving: To combat the issue of watermelon becoming watery, if you are making this for a party or meal prep, keep the dressing separate and only add it just before you plan to serve.
- Separate Components: For longer storage of individual components (up to 2-3 days), keep the cubed watermelon, crumbled feta, and fresh herbs in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The dressing can also be stored separately. Combine everything just before serving.
- Serve Chilled: While the salad is best fresh, a slight chill for 30 minutes to an hour in the refrigerator before serving can enhance its refreshing quality without causing excessive liquid release.
Can I Add Nuts or Seeds for Extra Crunch and Flavor to My Watermelon Feta Salad?
Absolutely, you can! While the fresh watermelon itself provides a wonderful crispness, adding nuts or seeds is an excellent way to introduce another layer of delightful texture and even a complementary nutty flavor to your Watermelon Feta Salad. If you’re craving more bite and complexity, this is a fantastic customization option.
Here are some of my top recommendations for nuts and seeds that pair beautifully with this salad:
- Sliced or Chopped Almonds: Almonds offer a delicate crunch and a mild, buttery flavor that complements both the sweetness of the watermelon and the tang of the feta. Toasted almonds will further enhance their flavor.
- Chopped Pistachios: Pistachios bring a vibrant green color, a satisfying crunch, and a slightly sweeter, richer nutty flavor. They also look stunning against the red watermelon and white feta.
- Sunflower Seeds: For a more earthy and robust flavor with a good crunch, sunflower seeds are a great choice. They’re also an excellent option if you’re looking for a nut-free alternative. Lightly toasting them can deepen their flavor.
- Pumpkin Seeds (Pepitas): Similar to sunflower seeds, pepitas offer a pleasant chewiness and a slightly different nutty profile. They contribute a lovely visual appeal with their green hue.
- Walnuts or Pecans: For a deeper, more robust nutty flavor, chopped walnuts or pecans can also be used. Their more intense taste might stand out a bit more, so consider them if you enjoy a stronger nutty presence.
To maximize their flavor and crunch, you might consider lightly toasting your chosen nuts or seeds in a dry pan over medium-low heat for a few minutes until fragrant. Allow them to cool completely before adding them to the salad. This simple step can make a big difference!
Add the nuts or seeds just before serving to ensure they remain crunchy and don’t become soggy from the dressing or watermelon juices.
Can I Omit the Cheese to Make My Watermelon Salad Vegan? Plus Vegan Alternatives!
Yes, absolutely! You can certainly omit the feta cheese to make this watermelon salad vegan-friendly. While feta brings a distinctive salty and creamy element, the salad remains incredibly refreshing and delicious even without it. The combination of sweet watermelon, fragrant basil, and refreshing mint, all brought together by the zesty lime dressing, still makes for a fantastic vegan side dish.
However, if you’re looking to retain a similar savory, salty, and slightly creamy element that feta provides, there are excellent vegan alternatives you can consider:
- Firm or Extra-Firm Tofu: This is a popular and versatile option. To mimic feta’s texture and flavor, I recommend cutting firm or extra-firm tofu into small cubes. For best results, press the tofu first to remove excess water. Then, pan-sear the tofu cubes in a little olive oil with a good pinch of salt until they are golden brown and slightly firm. This process not only adds a savory depth and better texture but also helps them hold their shape when folded into the salad. You can even marinate them in a salty, tangy brine beforehand for an even closer approximation to feta.
- Store-Bought Vegan Feta: The market for plant-based alternatives has exploded, and you can now find various brands offering vegan feta cheese. These are often made from coconut oil, soy, or nuts and are designed to replicate the taste and texture of traditional feta. Look for one that crumbles well and has a good salty tang.
- Avocado: While not a cheese substitute in terms of saltiness or tang, diced avocado can add a wonderful creamy texture and healthy fats to the salad, which helps to replace some of the richness lost by removing feta. Its mild flavor pairs well with the other ingredients.
- Olives: For a salty, briny kick, consider adding a handful of pitted and sliced Kalamata or black olives. While they won’t offer a creamy texture, they will definitely contribute that savory contrast that balances the watermelon’s sweetness.
By choosing one of these alternatives, or simply enjoying the pure, vibrant flavors of the fruit and herbs, you can easily adapt this Watermelon Feta Salad to be a fantastic vegan option.
Need more inspiration for incredible summer recipes? Don’t miss out – check out my comprehensive summer recipes page for more delicious ideas!
Storage Guidelines for Watermelon Feta Salad
To Store: As previously mentioned, this Watermelon Feta Salad is truly best enjoyed immediately after it’s prepared. However, if you find yourself with leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s crucial to understand that the watermelon will continue to release its natural juices over time, which can lead to a slightly watery consistency. To maintain the best possible flavor and texture when enjoying leftovers, I highly recommend carefully straining out any excess liquid that has collected at the bottom of the container before serving it again. This simple step will significantly improve your experience with the chilled salad.
More Delightful Watermelon Recipes to Enjoy All Summer Long
If you’ve fallen in love with the refreshing taste of watermelon and are looking for more ways to incorporate it into your summer menu, you’re in luck! This versatile fruit shines in a variety of dishes and drinks. Here are some more delicious watermelon recipes to try:
- For those who enjoy a spirited summer sipper, be sure to try a vibrant Watermelon Gin Cocktail or a crisp Watermelon Vodka Cocktail. These drinks perfectly capture the essence of summer with every sip.
- If you’re seeking a fantastic non-alcoholic option that’s just as refreshing, mix up a batch of Watermelon Lime Agua Fresca. It’s a sweet, tangy, and incredibly hydrating beverage that the whole family will love.
- Another excellent summery salad to keep in your recipe rotation is this elegant Melon Prosciutto Salad. It offers a sophisticated blend of sweet melon and savory cured ham, making it a perfect refreshing side or light appetizer.
Finally, if you prepare this delightful Watermelon Feta Salad recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a rating and/or leave a comment below! Your feedback is incredibly valuable to me. I absolutely love hearing when you all try my recipes, and I make it a point to respond to every single comment. Don’t hesitate to drop any questions you might have about the recipe in the comments section as well!
Oh, and be sure to tag me on Instagram if you share a photo of your creation! Seeing these recipes come to life in your homes is genuinely my favorite thing, and looking through those photos means the world to me!
Watermelon Feta Salad
15 minutes
15 minutes
6
Equipment
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Measuring Spoons
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Measuring Cups
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Wusthof Knife Set
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Organic Bamboo Cutting Board
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French Wire Whisk
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Mixing Bowls
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 Tbsp champagne vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
- 1 1/2 Tbsp honey or agave
- 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 cups seedless watermelon chunks (or small balls, about 1-inch size)
- 1/4 cup fresh chiffonade basil (cut into thin strips)
- 2 Tbsp freshly chopped mint leaves
- 4 oz feta cheese (preferably from a block, cut into 1/2-inch chunks)
- Kosher salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
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Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, champagne vinegar, honey (or agave), and extra-virgin olive oil until well combined and slightly emulsified. Taste and season with a pinch of salt and pepper as needed. Set aside.
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Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the watermelon chunks, chiffonade basil, chopped mint leaves, and feta cheese chunks. Be careful not to bruise the watermelon.
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Dress and Serve: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together until all the components are lightly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
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Chill or Enjoy Immediately: Serve the Watermelon Feta Salad immediately for peak freshness and crispness. For enhanced flavor melding or a slightly cooler salad, you can cover it and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to 1 hour before serving. Avoid chilling for too long to prevent the watermelon from becoming watery.
Recipe Video
Notes
Nutrition Information
156
kcal
Summer
Side Dish