The ULTIMATE Watermelon Salad

The ULTIMATE Watermelon Salad is a easy Mediterranean recipe that serves 4. 150 calories per serving. Recipe by With Wendy and Shannon on YouTube.

Prep: 36 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 46 min

Cost: $11.66 total, $2.92 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp Lime Juice (freshly squeezed from ripe limes)
  • 2 tbsp Granulated Sugar (regular white sugar)
  • 1 pinch Salt (kosher or sea salt)
  • 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil (good quality)
  • 1 whole Watermelon (seedless, about 5 lb, look for yellow patch and hollow sound)
  • 1 piece English Cucumber (medium, unpeeled)
  • 0.5 medium Red Onion (sliced very fine)
  • 15 leaves Fresh Mint Leaves (chopped fine)
  • 5 leaves Fresh Basil Leaves (rolled then sliced)
  • 250 g Feta Cheese (crumbled, reserve a small amount for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Make the Lime‑Sugar Dressing

    In a small bowl whisk together 2 tbsp fresh lime juice, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, a pinch of salt, and 2 tbsp extra‑virgin olive oil until the mixture emulsifies.

    Time: PT2M

  2. Let Dressing Rest

    Set the dressing aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prep the vegetables and fruit.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Prepare the Watermelon

    Slice off the top and bottom of the watermelon to create flat surfaces. Using a sharp knife, remove the green rind and the white pith, then turn the fruit on its side and cut into ~½‑inch thick slices. Cut each slice into strips, then rotate and dice into ~½‑inch cubes. Transfer the cubes to a large bowl.

    Time: PT10M

  4. Dice the Cucumber

    Trim the ends off the English cucumber, halve it lengthwise, then quarter each half. Cut the quarters into ~½‑inch cubes and add to the bowl with the watermelon.

    Time: PT5M

  5. Slice the Red Onion

    Halve a medium red onion, then slice it as finely as possible. Add the thin slices to the bowl.

    Time: PT3M

  6. Prep Fresh Herbs

    Pluck about 15 mint leaves, chop them finely, and add to the bowl. Roll 4‑6 basil leaves into tight rolls, then slice thinly and add as well.

    Time: PT3M

  7. Crumble the Feta

    Crumble 250 g feta cheese; set aside roughly 2 tbsp for garnish and fold the rest into the salad.

    Time: PT2M

  8. Combine Salad Ingredients

    Add the diced watermelon, cucumber, sliced red onion, chopped mint, sliced basil, and the bulk of the crumbled feta into the large mixing bowl. Toss gently to distribute evenly.

    Time: PT3M

  9. Dress the Salad

    Give the dressing one final whisk, then drizzle it over the salad. Toss with salad spoons or tongs until everything is lightly coated.

    Time: PT2M

  10. Garnish and Serve

    Scatter the reserved feta crumbs on top for a decorative finish. Serve immediately or chill for up to 30 minutes.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
150
Protein
5 g
Carbohydrates
15 g
Fat
9 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Allergens: Dairy

Last updated: April 18, 2026

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The ULTIMATE Watermelon Salad

Recipe by With Wendy and Shannon

A bright, refreshing summer salad featuring sweet seedless watermelon, crisp cucumber, tangy red onion, fresh mint and basil, and creamy feta tossed in a lime‑sugar vinaigrette. Perfect as a side dish or light main for hot days.

EasyMediterraneanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
36m
Prep
0m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
46m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$11.66
Total cost
$2.92
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Emulsify the dressing properly to avoid separation.
  • Remove all white rind from the watermelon to keep the flavor pure.
  • Cut watermelon and cucumber into uniform bite‑size pieces for even texture.
  • Balance the dressing with the right amount of salt and lime.

Safety Warnings

  • Use a sharp chef's knife carefully; keep fingertips tucked away.
  • Lime juice can irritate skin; wash hands after handling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Watermelon, Cucumber & Feta Salad in Mediterranean cuisine?

A

This salad reflects the Mediterranean love of fresh, seasonal produce combined with salty feta. Watermelon has been enjoyed across the region for centuries, and pairing it with herbs and cheese creates a balance of sweet, salty, and herbaceous flavors typical of summer mezze plates.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of watermelon salad in Mediterranean cuisine?

A

In Greece, watermelon is often paired with feta, mint, and a drizzle of olive oil, while in Turkey you might find it with black olives and sumac. Some North African versions add preserved lemons or a hint of cumin for extra depth.

cultural
Q

How is Watermelon, Cucumber & Feta Salad traditionally served in Greece?

A

It is typically served chilled as a mezze or side dish during summer gatherings, often on a large platter with additional olives and crusty bread on the side. The salad is meant to be eaten with the hands or a fork, emphasizing freshness.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Watermelon, Cucumber & Feta Salad traditionally associated with in Mediterranean culture?

A

The salad is popular at outdoor picnics, beach outings, and festive summer celebrations such as name days and family barbecues, where its refreshing qualities complement grilled meats and other hearty dishes.

cultural
Q

What authentic ingredients are essential for Watermelon, Cucumber & Feta Salad versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Authentic ingredients include seedless watermelon, English cucumber, feta cheese, fresh mint, fresh basil, lime juice, and extra‑virgin olive oil. Substitutes can include lemon juice for lime, goat cheese for feta, or Persian cucumber for English cucumber without drastically changing the flavor profile.

cultural
Q

What other Mediterranean dishes pair well with Watermelon, Cucumber & Feta Salad?

A

It pairs beautifully with grilled lamb kebabs, roasted chicken souvlaki, or a simple platter of olives and hummus. A glass of crisp rosé or a light white wine also complements the sweet‑salty balance.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Watermelon, Cucumber & Feta Salad?

A

Common errors include over‑salting the dressing, using a watermelon with seeds or too much rind, cutting the fruit into uneven pieces, and letting the salad sit too long, which makes it watery. Follow the precise cutting sizes and keep the dressing separate until serving.

technical
Q

Why does this Watermelon, Cucumber & Feta Salad recipe use lime juice instead of lemon juice?

A

Lime juice provides a sharper, more aromatic acidity that balances the sweet watermelon better than lemon, which can be slightly sweeter and less bright. The traditional Mediterranean version often calls for lime for that distinctive tang.

technical
Q

Can I make Watermelon, Cucumber & Feta Salad ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can prepare the dressing and cut the fruit up to a day ahead. Store the dressing in a sealed container in the refrigerator and keep the chopped watermelon and cucumber in a separate airtight container. Combine and toss just before serving.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when making Watermelon, Cucumber & Feta Salad?

A

The watermelon and cucumber cubes should be uniform, about half an inch, and bright red and green respectively. The feta should be crumbly but not dry, and the herbs finely chopped. The dressing should coat the ingredients lightly, giving a glossy finish without pooling.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel With Wendy and Shannon specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel With Wendy and Shannon focuses on approachable, crowd‑pleasing recipes that emphasize fresh, seasonal ingredients and simple techniques, often featuring Mediterranean‑inspired dishes and easy-to-follow tutorials.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel With Wendy and Shannon's approach to Mediterranean cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

With Wendy and Shannon prioritize quick, no‑cook or minimal‑cook meals that can be assembled with everyday kitchen tools, highlighting flavor balance and visual appeal. Their style is relaxed yet precise, offering clear timing cues and practical tips that many more production‑heavy channels may overlook.

channel

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