Vibrant Watermelon Feta Salad with Balsamic

This Watermelon Salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. The juicy watermelon chunks are paired with tangy crumbles of feta cheese, avocado, cucumbers, and basil. The salad is then drizzled with a balsamic lime dressing that adds a zesty kick and a touch of acidity, bringing all the flavors together.

watermelon salad with feta, basil, cucumbers, avocado, strawberries, onion, and balsamic lime dressing in a white bowl

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Looking for the perfect summer side dish that’s both vibrant and incredibly flavorful? This Watermelon Feta Salad with a zesty Balsamic Lime Vinaigrette is an absolute game-changer. Each bite offers a delightful burst of refreshing sweetness from the watermelon, complemented by the salty tang of feta, the crispness of cucumbers, the creamy texture of avocado, and the aromatic touch of fresh basil. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience designed to invigorate your taste buds and leave you craving more. This easy-to-make salad is an ideal choice for any summer gathering, be it a casual backyard BBQ, a festive picnic, or simply a light and healthy snack on a warm afternoon. Its vibrant colors and refreshing taste also make it a perfect addition to Juneteenth celebrations or any occasion where you want to add a touch of fresh, seasonal flair.

How to Select the Best Watermelon

Choosing the right watermelon is crucial for a truly exceptional salad. You have two main options: purchasing a whole watermelon or opting for pre-cut sections. While pre-cut watermelon offers ultimate convenience, especially for busy individuals, it’s worth noting a few things. Pre-cut watermelon is typically sold in plastic containers and is often seedless, which is a major time-saver. However, pre-cut fruit tends to be more expensive per pound and can lose its peak texture and flavor more quickly due to increased exposure to air. If you choose pre-cut, plan to use it as soon as possible after purchase to enjoy its freshest taste.

For those who prefer to select a whole watermelon, here are some expert tips to ensure you pick a ripe, sweet, and juicy one:

  1. Weight for Size: A ripe watermelon should feel significantly heavy for its size. This indicates a high water content, meaning it’s juicy and sweet.
  2. The Thump Test: Give the watermelon a firm tap with your knuckles. A ripe watermelon will produce a deep, hollow sound, almost like a drum. If it sounds dull or flat, it might be underripe or overripe.
  3. Look for a Field Spot: This is arguably the most important indicator. The field spot is the large, yellowish patch on one side of the watermelon where it rested on the ground while ripening. A creamy yellow or even orange-yellow spot indicates that the watermelon was allowed to ripen fully on the vine, accumulating plenty of sugar. Avoid watermelons with white or green field spots, as these are signs of immaturity.
  4. Uniform Shape: Choose a watermelon that is symmetrical and uniform in shape. Irregular bumps, soft spots, or indentations can suggest inconsistent growth or damage, potentially leading to a less sweet or textured fruit.
  5. Check for Dullness: A ripe watermelon often has a dull rather than shiny rind. A very shiny rind can sometimes indicate an unripe fruit.
  6. Inspect the Stem: If there’s a stem attached, a dried-out stem suggests the watermelon was harvested ripe. A green stem might mean it was picked too early.

By following these simple guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to selecting the perfect foundation for your refreshing watermelon salad.

diced watermelon, sliced strawberries, and a lime in separate glass bowls

Preparing Your Watermelon for the Salad

If you’ve opted for a whole watermelon, a little preparation is required to transform it into the perfect salad ingredient. The process is straightforward, ensuring you get neat, bite-sized pieces ready to mingle with other vibrant components. Here’s what you’ll need and how to do it:

  • A ripe watermelon (as selected using the tips above)
  • A large, sharp chef’s knife
  • A sturdy cutting board
  • A large spoon or melon baller (optional, for decorative shapes)

Step-by-step preparation:

  1. Wash Thoroughly: Even though you won’t be eating the rind, it’s essential to thoroughly wash the entire watermelon under cool running water. This helps remove any dirt, bacteria, or pesticides from the surface that could transfer to the flesh when you cut it.
  2. Cut in Half: Place the watermelon on your cutting board. Using your large, sharp knife, carefully cut the watermelon in half crosswise.
  3. Quarter and Slice: Take each half and cut it into quarters lengthwise. This makes the watermelon easier to handle. You can then slice off the rind, or you can scoop out the flesh.
  4. Remove Flesh & Seeds: If your watermelon has seeds, you’ll want to remove them. Use a large spoon to scoop out the red flesh, being careful not to puncture the rind if you plan to use it as a serving bowl. If you’re going for seedless, simply cut around any visible seeds.
  5. Dice or Ball: Cut the watermelon flesh into bite-sized pieces. Small cubes (1 to 2 inches) are most common for salads as they combine well with other ingredients. For an extra touch of elegance, a melon baller can be used to create perfect spheres.

Once prepped, your succulent watermelon is ready to be combined with the other fresh ingredients, forming the heart of your refreshing salad.

Essential Ingredients for a Stellar Watermelon Salad

The beauty of this watermelon salad lies in its simplicity and the perfect synergy of a few key ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating a symphony of flavors and textures that dance on your palate. Here’s a breakdown of the core ingredients that make this salad truly special:

  • Watermelon: The star of the show! Its natural sweetness and hydrating properties provide the perfect base.
  • Strawberries: Adding another layer of fruity sweetness and a vibrant red hue, strawberries complement the watermelon beautifully, enhancing the overall fresh fruit profile.
  • Feta Cheese: The salty, tangy, and slightly briny notes of crumbled feta cheese are what elevate this from a simple fruit salad to a sophisticated sweet-and-savory dish. It creates an incredible contrast with the watermelon’s sweetness.
  • Fresh Basil: The aromatic, peppery, and slightly sweet flavor of fresh basil brings an unexpected herbaceous depth. It’s a classic pairing with watermelon and truly brightens the entire salad.
  • Cucumbers: Crisp, cool, and subtly refreshing, diced cucumbers add a delightful crunch and a clean, fresh counterpoint to the sweetness of the fruits.
  • Red Onions: Thinly sliced red onions provide a gentle, piquant bite that cuts through the richness and sweetness, adding a crucial savory element without being overpowering. Their mild sharpness is key to balancing the flavors.
  • Avocado: Creamy, rich, and subtly nutty, diced avocado adds a luxurious texture and healthy fats, making the salad more satisfying and well-rounded.

These carefully selected ingredients ensure every forkful is a balanced and exhilarating culinary experience.

red onions, feta, cucumbers, and fresh basil in separate glass bowls

Crafting the Perfect Balsamic Lime Dressing

The dressing is the unifying element that brings all the diverse flavors of this watermelon salad into perfect harmony. Our Balsamic Lime Dressing is light, zesty, and provides just the right amount of acidity to brighten the entire dish. It’s incredibly simple to make, yet it delivers a complex flavor profile that elevates every ingredient.

Here’s what you’ll need for this vibrant dressing:

  • Fresh Lime Juice: The star of the dressing, fresh lime juice provides a bright, tangy, and refreshing citrus punch. It’s essential for cutting through the sweetness of the fruit and the richness of the avocado and feta. Always opt for freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor.
  • Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a sweet, tangy, and slightly complex depth to the dressing. Its rich flavor pairs beautifully with both sweet fruits and savory cheese, creating an irresistible balance. High-quality balsamic vinegar will make a noticeable difference.
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The olive oil serves as the base of the vinaigrette, emulsifying the acidic components and lending a smooth, slightly peppery richness. It also helps to coat the ingredients evenly and adds healthy fats to the salad. Choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best results.

The simplicity of these three ingredients, when combined in the right proportions, creates a dressing that is both sophisticated and incredibly delicious. Its zesty, sweet-tart profile is the secret weapon behind this unforgettable watermelon salad.

olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and lime juice in a white bowl

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Watermelon Feta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Creating this refreshing watermelon salad is remarkably straightforward, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor payoff. Follow these simple steps to assemble your vibrant and delicious dish:

Detailed measurements and full instructions can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

  1. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the diced watermelon, sliced strawberries, diced cucumbers, diced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onions, and chiffonade-cut fresh basil leaves. Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed for a balanced flavor in every bite.
  2. Prepare the Balsamic Lime Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, balsamic vinegar, and extra virgin olive oil until well combined and emulsified. Taste the dressing and adjust the amounts of lime juice or balsamic vinegar to achieve your desired balance of sweet and tangy. You might want a bit more zest or a deeper balsamic note depending on your preference.
  3. Dress the Salad: Carefully drizzle the prepared balsamic lime dressing over the combined salad ingredients. Toss gently to coat all the fruit, vegetables, and cheese without crushing the delicate watermelon or avocado.
  4. Chill for Enhanced Flavor: For the best flavor and a truly refreshing experience, it’s highly recommended to chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and intensifies the coolness of the salad, making it even more enjoyable, especially on a hot day.

Once chilled, your Watermelon Feta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette is ready to be served! Prepare for an explosion of fresh, sweet, and savory flavors.

watermelon salad with feta, cucumbers, avocado, basil, strawberries, onion, and balsamic lime dressing in a glass bowl

Creative Toppings and Smart Substitutions

While the classic Watermelon Feta Salad is undeniably delicious, one of its greatest strengths is its versatility. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe to suit your preferences or to utilize ingredients you have on hand. Here are some fantastic ideas for other toppings and smart substitutions to inspire your culinary creativity:

  • Fresh Mint: A natural partner to watermelon, fresh mint adds another layer of refreshing coolness and aromatic flavor. Chop it finely and sprinkle it in.
  • Arugula or Spinach: For a more substantial salad with a peppery kick, add a bed of fresh arugula or tender spinach leaves. These greens complement the sweetness of the fruit beautifully.
  • Cantaloupe or Honeydew: If you want to expand the melon profile, chunks of cantaloupe or honeydew can be a delightful addition, bringing different shades of sweetness and texture.
  • Grapes or Blueberries: Other berries or fruits like halved grapes or fresh blueberries can add extra bursts of sweetness and vibrant color.
  • Tomatoes: Surprisingly, cherry or grape tomatoes, halved, add a juicy, slightly acidic burst that works wonderfully with the savory elements.
  • Grilled Shrimp or Chicken: To transform this side dish into a complete meal, consider adding some protein. Grilled shrimp or shredded grilled chicken breast can make it a hearty and satisfying main course.
  • Halloumi Cheese: For a different cheesy experience, pan-fried or grilled halloumi cheese offers a salty, squeaky texture that holds up well and provides a delightful contrast.
  • Pine Nuts: Lightly toasted pine nuts add a subtle crunch and a buttery, nutty flavor that enhances the salad’s depth.
  • Corn/Grilled Corn: Fresh or grilled corn kernels offer a sweet, earthy crunch and a sunny yellow color that fits perfectly with the summer theme.
  • Chili Flakes or Jalapeño: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red chili flakes or finely diced fresh jalapeño can add an exciting spicy kick.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create a watermelon salad that is uniquely yours and perfectly suited to any occasion.

watermelon salad with feta, cucumbers, avocado, basil, strawberries, onion, and balsamic lime dressing in a glass bowl drizzled with balsamic dressing

Exploring More Delicious Salad Dressing Options

While the Balsamic Lime Dressing is a fantastic choice for this watermelon salad, the world of vinaigrettes and dressings is vast, offering many exciting possibilities to complement the flavors of the fruit and feta. Experimenting with different dressings can completely change the character of your salad, allowing you to tailor it to various tastes or meal pairings. Here are some excellent alternatives:

  • Honey Lime Dressing: This light and refreshing dressing, typically made with honey, fresh lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt, offers a sweeter, less tart alternative to the balsamic version. The honey beautifully enhances the natural sweetness of the watermelon and strawberries, while the lime keeps it bright. It’s perfect for a truly fruit-forward experience.
  • Raspberry Vinaigrette: For a vibrant and fruity twist, a raspberry vinaigrette is an excellent choice. This dressing combines fresh raspberries (or raspberry preserves), a good quality vinegar (like white wine or champagne vinegar), olive oil, and a touch of sugar. Its sweet and tangy profile with a hint of berry flavor pairs exceptionally well with the sweetness of the salad ingredients, creating a burst of summer in every bite.
  • Greek Yogurt Dressing: If you’re looking for a creamier, protein-packed option, a light Greek yogurt dressing is ideal. Made with plain Greek yogurt, a squeeze of lemon juice or a hint of vinegar, and fresh herbs like mint or dill, this dressing offers a refreshing and tangy flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness of the fruit. It adds a lovely creaminess without being heavy.
  • Poppy Seed Dressing: A classic choice for fruit-heavy salads, poppy seed dressing is typically sweet and tangy with a unique texture from the tiny seeds. It often includes vinegar (apple cider or white wine), sugar, oil, and of course, poppy seeds. Its vibrant flavor profile works wonderfully with a variety of fruits, making it a delightful match for strawberries, blueberries, and even mandarins if you decide to add them.
  • Mint Dressing: To amplify the cooling sensation of the basil and cucumber, a dedicated mint dressing can be incredibly refreshing. This can be as simple as finely chopped fresh mint leaves blended with olive oil, lime juice, and a touch of honey or agave. It provides an intense burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor that is perfect for hot weather.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with these options to discover your new favorite way to enjoy watermelon salad!

The Importance of Chilling Your Watermelon Salad

While you can certainly serve this watermelon salad immediately after preparing it, allowing it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving is a step you won’t want to skip. This seemingly small waiting period makes a significant difference in the overall enjoyment of the dish, especially when preparing it for a warm-weather gathering or a refreshing summer meal.

Here’s why chilling is so important:

  • Enhanced Flavor Infusion: Chilling provides time for the balsamic lime dressing to fully meld with and penetrate all the ingredients. The watermelon, feta, cucumbers, and herbs have a chance to absorb the zesty, tangy, and sweet notes of the vinaigrette, resulting in a more complex and harmonious flavor profile. The longer it chills (within reason), the deeper the flavors become.
  • Superior Texture: Cold watermelon is inherently more refreshing and crisp. Chilling helps firm up the fruit and vegetables, preventing them from becoming soggy too quickly. This ensures that every bite retains its delightful texture.
  • Optimal Refreshment: On a hot day, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a perfectly chilled salad. The coolness of the ingredients enhances the refreshing qualities of the watermelon and cucumber, making the salad incredibly invigorating and thirst-quenching.
  • Better Serving Temperature: A chilled salad is simply more appealing to eat. It presents better, feels more appetizing, and is generally more enjoyable when served at a cool temperature, especially as a side dish or appetizer.

So, plan ahead and give your watermelon salad that crucial chilling time. It’s a simple step that yields significant rewards in taste and enjoyment.

watermelon salad with feta, basil, cucumbers, avocado, strawberries, onion, and balsamic lime dressing in a white bowl

Tips to Prevent Watermelon Browning

Nobody wants a beautifully vibrant salad to turn dull and unappetizing. The browning of cut fruits and vegetables, including watermelon, is primarily due to oxidation – a chemical reaction that occurs when the exposed surfaces come into contact with air. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies you can employ to keep your watermelon salad looking fresh and appealing for longer:

  • Use Fresh Watermelon: The fresher the watermelon, the slower it will oxidize. Watermelon that is already past its prime or slightly overripe will brown much more quickly once cut. Refer to our selection tips to pick the best fruit.
  • Cut into Small, Even Cubes: While it might seem counterintuitive, smaller pieces actually have less surface area exposed to air relative to their volume compared to larger, irregularly shaped chunks. Additionally, uniform pieces allow for better coating by the dressing, which acts as a protective barrier.
  • Leverage Citrus Juice (Lime or Lemon): This is a powerful anti-browning agent, and it’s already a key component of our balsamic lime dressing! Lime juice, rich in ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), acts as a natural antioxidant. It significantly slows down the enzymatic browning process that occurs when fruit cells are exposed to oxygen. Ensure all watermelon pieces are well-coated with the dressing.
  • Incorporate Olive Oil: The olive oil in your dressing does more than just add flavor and help emulsify; it also creates a thin barrier around the fruit. This oil layer helps to seal in moisture and reduce direct contact between the watermelon’s surface and the air, thereby inhibiting oxidation.
  • Utilize Vinegar: Similar to citrus juice, balsamic vinegar contains acetic acid, which also contributes to slowing down the browning process. The acidic environment it creates is less conducive to the enzymes responsible for oxidation.
  • Store in an Airtight Container: Once prepared, transfer your watermelon salad to a clean, airtight container. Minimizing the exposure to air is paramount in preventing browning and maintaining freshness.
  • Eat as Soon as Possible: While the above tips will extend its shelf life, watermelon salad is always best enjoyed fresh. The longer it sits, even in ideal conditions, the more likely it is to lose its crispness and vibrant color. Aim to consume it within 24-48 hours of preparation.

By implementing these tips, you can ensure your watermelon salad remains visually stunning and deliciously fresh from the first scoop to the last.

Storing Your Watermelon Salad for Maximum Freshness

Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality, freshness, and safety of your watermelon salad. While it’s always best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers and extend their deliciousness for a short period. Here’s a comprehensive guide to storing your salad:

  • Refrigeration is Key: Always store any leftover watermelon salad in the refrigerator. The cool temperature inhibits bacterial growth and helps preserve the texture of the ingredients.
  • Use an Airtight Container: Transfer the salad to a clean, airtight container immediately after serving. An airtight seal is crucial for minimizing air exposure, which is the primary cause of oxidation and browning. This also prevents the salad from absorbing odors from other foods in your fridge.
  • Shelf Life: When stored correctly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, your watermelon salad can last for up to 3 days. However, it’s important to note that the quality (especially the crispness of the watermelon and cucumber) will gradually decline after the first day. For optimal taste and texture, it is best consumed within 24 to 48 hours of making it.
  • Preventing Soggy Fruit: Watermelon and other juicy fruits can release a lot of liquid, especially once dressed. To help prevent the salad from becoming soggy, you might consider draining any excess dressing or liquid that accumulates at the bottom of the container before re-storing. Alternatively, you can line the bottom of your airtight container with a paper towel to absorb some of this moisture. Just be sure to replace the paper towel daily if storing for longer.
  • Avoid Room Temperature: Never leave the salad at room temperature for more than two hours. Warm temperatures are a breeding ground for bacteria, and perishable ingredients like feta cheese and avocado can spoil quickly, posing a health risk.
  • Dressing Absorption: Remember that once the fruit is coated in the balsamic dressing, it will absorb the flavors over time. While this can enhance the taste, prolonged soaking can sometimes lead to a softer texture. If you prefer a firmer fruit texture for future servings, consider dressing individual portions just before eating, if you are storing undressed salad components separately.

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your delicious and refreshing watermelon salad safely and ensure its flavors remain vibrant for as long as possible.

watermelon salad with feta, basil, cucumbers, avocado, strawberries, onion, and balsamic lime dressing in a white bowl

Using Frozen Fruit in Your Salad

While this recipe primarily focuses on the unparalleled freshness of ripe, seasonal fruit, you might wonder if frozen fruit can be used as a substitute, especially when fresh options aren’t available or are out of season. The answer is yes, with a few important considerations.

Frozen fruit can indeed be used in your watermelon salad, but it’s crucial to thaw it thoroughly beforehand. Place the frozen fruit in a colander set over a bowl in the refrigerator overnight, or for several hours, to allow it to thaw slowly. Once thawed, you will undoubtedly notice a significant amount of excess water released by the fruit. It is absolutely essential to drain this excess liquid thoroughly. Pat the fruit dry with paper towels if necessary. Failing to drain the water will result in a watery, diluted, and soggy salad that lacks the vibrant punch and texture you’re aiming for.

Key points to keep in mind when using frozen fruit:

  • Texture Difference: One of the most significant differences you’ll encounter is in texture. Frozen and thawed fruit, particularly watermelon, strawberries, and cucumbers, will generally be softer and less crisp than their fresh counterparts. The freezing process breaks down cell walls, leading to a softer, sometimes mushier, consistency. This might alter the overall mouthfeel of the salad.
  • Flavor Concentration: While the texture changes, the flavor of frozen fruit can sometimes be more concentrated, as the water content is reduced upon thawing. However, this isn’t always a positive for a salad where crispness and juiciness are prized.
  • Best for Certain Fruits: Strawberries and berries tend to hold up relatively well after freezing and thawing for salad purposes, though they will still be softer. Watermelon, on the other hand, can become quite mushy and lose its characteristic crispness when frozen and thawed, making it less ideal for a fresh salad texture.
  • Quick Consumption: Thawed frozen fruit tends to deteriorate more quickly than fresh fruit. If you use frozen fruit, plan to consume the salad even sooner than you would with fresh ingredients.

For the best possible experience with this watermelon salad, fresh, ripe ingredients are highly recommended. However, if frozen fruit is your only option, proper thawing and draining will help you achieve an acceptable result.

More Refreshing Fruit Salad and Savory Salad Recipes

If you’ve enjoyed the vibrant flavors and fresh appeal of this watermelon salad, you’ll love exploring other delightful salad creations. From sweet fruit medleys to hearty savory options, these recipes are perfect for any occasion:

  • Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits tossed in a bright and sweet honey-lime dressing.
  • Mango Fruit Salad: A tropical delight featuring juicy mangoes, other vibrant fruits, and a zesty dressing.
  • Southwest Chicken Salad: A hearty and flavorful salad packed with grilled chicken, black beans, corn, avocado, and a spicy southwest dressing.
  • Bow Tie Pasta Salad: A classic crowd-pleaser, this pasta salad combines al dente bow ties with fresh vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette.
  • Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Cheese: A deliciously crunchy and creamy salad, featuring fresh broccoli florets, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese.
  • Grilled Shrimp Salad: Light and satisfying, this salad boasts succulent grilled shrimp over a bed of greens with a refreshing dressing.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Watermelon Salad

This versatile watermelon salad makes an excellent side dish, complementing a wide array of main courses. Its refreshing, sweet, and savory profile is particularly well-suited to grilled meats and seafood, balancing richer flavors and providing a light counterpoint. Here are some fantastic recipes that pair beautifully with your Watermelon Feta Salad:

  • How to Grill Chicken Wings: The smoky flavor of grilled chicken wings pairs wonderfully with the fresh, bright notes of the salad.
  • Blackened Catfish: The bold, spicy flavors of blackened catfish find a perfect refresh with the cool, sweet, and tangy salad.
  • Chipotle Pollo Asado: The vibrant, marinated flavors of pollo asado are beautifully complemented by the light and zesty watermelon salad.
  • Slow Cooker Crockpot Chicken Wings: Enjoy tender, flavorful chicken wings with the fresh crunch of the salad for a balanced meal.
  • Slow Cooker Crockpot BBQ Meatballs: The tangy sweetness of BBQ meatballs is perfectly offset by the refreshing notes of this fruit-and-feta salad.

More Delightful Watermelon Recipes

Watermelon is an incredibly versatile fruit, offering more than just a refreshing snack. Its sweet, juicy flesh can be transformed into a variety of delicious drinks and dishes, perfect for beating the summer heat or adding a unique twist to your menu. If you love the star of our salad, you’ll want to explore these other fantastic watermelon-centric recipes:

  • Watermelon Lemonade: A wonderfully refreshing beverage, blending the tartness of lemonade with the natural sweetness of fresh watermelon.
  • Frozen Watermelon Margarita: A perfect grown-up treat for summer, this icy margarita combines the vibrant flavor of watermelon with classic margarita ingredients.
  • Watermelon Margarita on the Rocks: For those who prefer their cocktails classic, this on-the-rocks version offers a sophisticated and refreshing watermelon experience.
  • Watermelon Water: A simple yet incredibly hydrating drink, where fresh watermelon infuses water with its delicate sweetness and flavor.
watermelon salad with feta, basil, cucumbers, avocado, strawberries, onion, and balsamic lime dressing in a white bowl

Watermelon Salad with Feta and Balsamic Vinaigrette

By Brandi Crawford

This Watermelon Salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. The juicy watermelon chunks are paired with tangy crumbles of feta cheese, avocado, cucumbers, and basil. The salad is then drizzled with a balsamic lime dressing that adds a zesty kick and a touch of acidity, bringing all the flavors together.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars from 3 votes

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Preparation and Servings

  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Chilling Time: 30 mins
  • Total Time: 50 mins
  • Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
  • Cuisine: American
  • Servings: 5 cups
  • Calories: 118 kcal

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Ingredients

  • 2-3 cups diced watermelon (Cut into 1 to 2 inch chunks.)
  • 1 cup strawberries (Sliced)
  • 1 cup diced cucumbers
  • ¼ cup diced avocado
  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • ¼ cup sliced onions (I used red onions.)
  • 2-3 fresh basil leaves (Chiffonade (shredded/finely cut))
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (This was the juice of 1 lime for me.)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½-1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (Start with ½ tablespoon and add more if you need it.)

Instructions

  1. Add all of the fruit/vegetables to a large bowl.
  2. Combine the dressing in a separate bowl. Taste the dressing repeatedly and make adjustments as necessary. Drizzle the dressing over the fruit.
  3. Serve immediately or chilled for 30 minutes.

Notes

Make this salad your dish. Add more/use less/omit whatever you like to suit your taste.

You can add salt and pepper to the salad if you want a more savory flavor.

I used fresh fruit in this recipe.

Olive oil is used because it will smooth out the dressing and make it easier to coat the fruit. You will taste some hints of the oil. Omit it if you wish.

Feel free to add more dressing to the salad to suit your taste and desired texture.

You can use any of your favorite fruit or vegetables in this salad.

Keep in mind some fruits, such as bananas and apples, tend to brown quickly when cut and exposed to air. Because the fruit is served with dressing, the longer you take to eat it, the more risk you have the fruit will get soggy. I like to drain excess dressing for this reason. Once you coat the fruit in dressing and refrigerate for 30 minutes, it will soak up the balsamic flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 cup | Calories: 118 kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g

Nutrition Data Disclaimer

Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.

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