Watermelon Salad
Watermelon Salad! is a easy Mediterranean recipe that serves 4. 120 calories per serving. Recipe by Matthew Augusta on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 8 min | Total: 33 min
Cost: $8.40 total, $2.10 per serving
Ingredients
- 4 cups Watermelon (seedless, cut into bite‑size cubes)
- 1 cup Cucumber (peeled if desired, diced)
- 0.25 cup Red Onion (thinly sliced, optional)
- 0.5 cup Feta Cheese (crumbled; can use reduced‑fat)
- 0.25 cup Balsamic Vinegar (reduced to a thick syrup (balsamic reduction))
- 2 tbsp Fresh Mint Leaves (chopped)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
Instructions
Cube the Watermelon
Place the watermelon on a cutting board, cut it in half lengthwise, scoop out any seeds, then cut the flesh into bite‑size cubes.
Time: PT5M
Dice the Cucumber
Peel the cucumber if the skin is thick, then dice it into ½‑inch cubes.
Time: PT2M
Slice Red Onion (Optional)
Thinly slice the red onion into half‑moon rings.
Time: PT2M
Crumble Feta Cheese
Place feta cheese in a small bowl and crumble it with your fingers or a fork.
Time: PT1M
Make Balsamic Reduction
In a small saucepan, combine ¼ cup balsamic vinegar and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce the volume by about half, stirring occasionally, until the liquid coats the back of a spoon (about 5‑7 minutes).
Time: PT7M
Temperature: Medium heat
Assemble the Salad
In the large mixing bowl, combine the watermelon cubes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion (if using), and crumbled feta. Drizzle the warm balsamic reduction over the mixture, toss gently, then sprinkle chopped mint leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Time: PT3M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 120
- Protein
- 3g
- Carbohydrates
- 20g
- Fat
- 5g
- Fiber
- 2g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Allergens: Dairy (feta cheese)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Watermelon: Cantaloupe, Honeydew melon
- Instead of Cucumber: Zucchini
- Instead of Red Onion: Shallots, Green onion
- Instead of Feta Cheese: Goat cheese, Ricotta salata
- Instead of Balsamic Vinegar: Aged balsamic vinegar, Pomegranate molasses
- Instead of Fresh Mint Leaves: Basil, Cilantro
Equipment Needed
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Small Saucepan
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
- Measuring Cups
- Serving Bowl
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Cutting the watermelon into uniform cubes for even texture.
- Reducing the balsamic vinegar to the correct thickness.
- Tossing the salad gently to avoid crushing the watermelon and feta.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a high‑quality aged balsamic vinegar for a richer flavor.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving for extra brightness.
- Chill the watermelon cubes for at least 30 minutes before assembling for maximum refreshment.
Troubleshooting
Balsamic reduction is too thin.
Continue simmering uncovered, stirring frequently, until it reaches a syrupy consistency.
Reduction becomes too thick and grainy.
Remove from heat and whisk in a teaspoon of warm water to loosen it.
Salad is watery after mixing.
Drain excess juice from the watermelon cubes using a fine mesh sieve before adding the dressing.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days; keep the balsamic reduction separate if possible.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture of watermelon will degrade.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for up to 1 hour before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the balsamic reduction a day ahead and store it in a small jar in the refrigerator.
- Keep the watermelon, cucumber, and onion dry; pat with paper towels before mixing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Watermelon, Cucumber, Feta & Balsamic Mint Salad in Mediterranean cuisine?
Fresh fruit salads featuring watermelon and mint have long been enjoyed across the Mediterranean as a cooling dish during hot summers. The addition of feta and balsamic reflects a modern fusion of Greek cheese traditions with Italian vinegar techniques, creating a bright, balanced palate.
What are traditional regional variations of watermelon salad in Mediterranean countries?
In Greece, watermelon is often paired with feta, olives, and oregano. In Italy, a drizzle of aged balsamic and fresh basil is common. North African versions may include preserved lemons and harissa for spice.
How is Watermelon, Cucumber, Feta & Balsamic Mint Salad traditionally served in Mediterranean gatherings?
It is typically served chilled as a starter or side during family meals, picnics, and summer festivals, presented in a large communal bowl and eaten with forks or by hand.
What occasions or celebrations is Watermelon, Cucumber, Feta & Balsamic Mint Salad traditionally associated with in Mediterranean culture?
The salad is popular at summer barbecues, beach picnics, and holiday gatherings such as Greek name days or Italian Ferragosto, where fresh, light dishes are favored.
What other Mediterranean dishes pair well with Watermelon, Cucumber, Feta & Balsamic Mint Salad?
It pairs nicely with grilled fish like branzino, lamb kebabs, or a simple mezze platter of olives, hummus, and pita bread.
What makes Watermelon, Cucumber, Feta & Balsamic Mint Salad special or unique in Mediterranean cuisine?
The contrast of sweet, juicy watermelon with salty feta, the acidity of a balsamic reduction, and the aromatic freshness of mint creates a multi‑dimensional flavor profile that is both traditional and contemporary.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Watermelon, Cucumber, Feta & Balsamic Mint Salad?
Common errors include over‑reducing the balsamic so it becomes bitter, cutting the watermelon into uneven pieces that release too much juice, and tossing the salad too vigorously, which can crush the feta and watermelon.
Why does this Watermelon, Cucumber, Feta & Balsamic Mint Salad recipe use a balsamic reduction instead of plain balsamic vinegar?
Reducing the balsamic concentrates its sweetness and adds a syrupy texture that clings to the fruit, providing a balanced sweet‑sour glaze without making the salad soggy.
Can I make Watermelon, Cucumber, Feta & Balsamic Mint Salad ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes. Prepare the balsamic reduction and store it in a sealed jar in the refrigerator. Keep the chopped watermelon, cucumber, and onion in a separate container, then combine and toss with the reduction and mint just before serving.
What does the YouTube channel Matthew Augusta specialize in?
The YouTube channel Matthew Augusta focuses on approachable, seasonal home cooking tutorials that blend classic techniques with modern twists, often highlighting fresh produce and simple, flavorful dishes.
How does the YouTube channel Matthew Augusta's approach to Mediterranean cooking differ from other Mediterranean cooking channels?
Matthew Augusta emphasizes quick, ingredient‑driven recipes that require minimal equipment, showcasing how everyday home cooks can achieve restaurant‑level freshness without complex preparations, unlike some channels that focus on elaborate, time‑intensive dishes.
Last updated: September 2, 2026
