Watermelon Feta Salad: The Ultimate Summer Side Dish (+ Video)

Nothing says summer quite like biting into a slice of sweet, juicy watermelon. It's the quintessential summer fruit: juicy, refreshing, sweet and at its peak freshness during those sweltering months.

While watermelon is delicious on its own, have you ever tried it with salty feta cheese sprinkled on top?

Discover how to whip up the ultimate summer side dish and your new favorite go-to salad recipe: watermelon feta salad.

What is watermelon feta salad?

Watermelon feta salad is a refreshing, sweet, and savory dish that can be served as an appetizer or side. The main ingredients include juicy watermelon cubes and crumbled feta cheese, often paired with vegetables like thinly sliced red onion or cool, crisp cucumber. Another staple in this salad recipe is fresh herbs like mint or basil, which enhance the salad's cool and refreshing flavor.

Watermelon salad is typically drizzled with a simple vinaigrette dressing made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or fresh citrus juice like lemon or lime) and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Why do watermelon and feta go together?

While it may seem like an unexpected duo, watermelon and feta cheese complement each other and go together perfectly. Watermelon is made up of 92% water, making it juicy and hydrating, while feta is creamy, crumbly and salty. When paired together, they create a crave-worthy sweet and savory combo.

Nutritionally, they are a power couple! Feta cheese contains sodium, a key electrolyte lost through sweat, and watermelon is rich in fluids and potassium. Plus, feta is a source of protein and calcium. Together, they form an ultimate hydrating, electrolyte-rich dish. Though keep in mind that many Americans meet or exceed their daily sodium allowance. Athletes in particular should ensure they are replenishing sodium and other electrolytes.

When is watermelon the best for watermelon feta salad?

Watermelon is at its best and in season during the summer months, typically from May through September. While you may see it available year-round, during the summer is when it's freshest, juiciest, and most flavorful and sweet. You'll often know it's in season when you spot large bins of whole watermelons at grocery stores or farmers' markets.

Look for seedless red watermelons with firm, crisp and bright red flesh. Avoid soft or mushy watermelon, which can negatively impact the texture and taste of the watermelon feta salad.

What herbs go best in a watermelon feta salad?

Fresh herbs are a key component of a watermelon feta salad. They add aroma, color, nutrition, and a burst of flavor. The most popular choice is fresh mint, which pairs well with the juicy sweetness of watermelon. Spearmint provides a minty flavor, which adds a cool taste to the salad.

Another option is fresh basil, which has mild sweetness and earthy undertones and complements the sweet and savory flavors of the salad. You can also try it with fresh cilantro, parsley, or even peppery greens like arugula.

What dressing pairs well with watermelon feta salad?

A simple vinaigrette dressing made with pantry staples you likely already have on hand pairs perfectly with watermelon feta salad. A high-quality oil, such as extra-virgin olive oil, combined with an acidic component like balsamic vinegar, which adds a slightly sweet and tangy note to the salad. Fresh lemon or lime juices could also be used in place of vinegar which will add a touch of zesty flavor. Finally, the dressing has a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to round out the flavors.

Can watermelon feta salad be made ahead or stored overnight?

Watermelon feta salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them overnight in the fridge. Cut the watermelon and cucumber, chop the herbs, and whisk together the dressing the night before serving. Store each component separately in the refrigerator. Right before serving, combine everything together in a large bowl, drizzle on the dressing and toss gently together. This method keeps the watermelon and cucumbers crisp and crunchy.

Does watermelon feta salad get you enough lycopene?

Watermelon feta salad is a delicious way to boost your intake of lycopene. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant also found in other red fruits and vegetables. One cup of diced watermelon supplies 6.89 mg of lycopene. Lycopene is known for supporting prostate health, heart health, insulin sensitivity, and healthy aging.

However, research shows that only 10-30% of the lycopene you eat is absorbed by the body, which means that even a few servings of watermelon salad may not provide optimal amounts. That's where a supplement can help bridge nutritional gaps.

Mega Lycopene contains 15 mg of lycopene from natural tomato extract in just one softgel, making it an easy, convenient, and sure way to get your daily fill of antioxidants.

References

• Shafe MO, et al. "Lycopene: A Potent Antioxidant with Multiple Health Benefits." J Nutr Metab. June 2024. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11179732/
• "Watermelon." U.S. Department of Agriculture. https://snaped.fns.usda.gov/resources/nutrition-education-materials/seasonal-produce-guide/watermelon
• "Watermelon, raw." U.S. Department of Agriculture. April 2019. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/food-details/167765/nutrients