Watermelon Cucumber Strawberry Salad

There’s nothing that screams summer quite like a Watermelon Cucumber Strawberry Salad! I created this vibrant, refreshing dish last year when temperatures hit record highs in my area. The combination of juicy watermelon, crisp cucumber, and sweet strawberries makes this salad absolutely irresistible. It’s hydrating, nutritious, and takes just minutes to throw together. The addition of feta cheese gives it a delightful savory element that balances the sweetness of the fruits.

Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ or just need something light for lunch, this colorful salad will definitely hit the spot! I promise you’ll be making this Watermelon Cucumber Strawberry Salad all summer long.

Ingredients for Watermelon Cucumber Strawberry Salad

For the Salad:

• 2 cups diced cucumber (about 1 large cucumber)
• 1½ cups strawberries, sliced into rounds (about 1 pint)
• 2 cups cubed watermelon (about ¼ of a small watermelon)
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (vegan or regular)
• Fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
• Optional: 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (for those who enjoy a kick!)

Equipment:

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for dressing
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Serving spoon

Easy Homemade Dressing for Watermelon Feta Salad

• 1½ tablespoons honey or agave nectar
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• ½ tablespoon finely chopped mint
• Pinch of salt

I find that this simple dressing really ties everything together without overpowering the natural flavors of the fruits. The lime adds brightness, the honey brings sweetness, and the mint provides a refreshing finish that complements the watermelon beautifully.

How to Make Watermelon Salad

1. Start by preparing all your fruits. Dice the cucumber into bite-sized pieces (I prefer to partially peel mine, leaving some strips of skin for color and nutrition). Cut the watermelon into similar-sized cubes. Slice the strawberries into rounds.
2. Place all the prepared fruits in a large mixing bowl. If you’re using jalapeño, add the thin slices now.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the honey (or agave), lime juice, lime zest, chopped mint, and a small pinch of salt until well combined. The salt might seem strange, but it actually enhances the sweetness of the fruits.
4. Pour the dressing over the fruit mixture and gently toss everything together, making sure all pieces are lightly coated. Be careful not to mix too vigorously as the watermelon and strawberries can get mushy.
5. At this point, you can serve the salad immediately, but I’ve found that chilling it for about an hour really lets the flavors meld together nicely.
6. Just before serving, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top and garnish with additional fresh mint leaves.

The whole process takes about 15 minutes of active time, which makes this my go-to recipe when I want something impressive but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Best Dishes to Serve with Watermelon Salad

This vibrant salad pairs wonderfully with many summer dishes. Here are some of my favorite combinations:

1. Grilled chicken or fish – the lightness of the salad complements protein-heavy mains beautifully.
2. Mediterranean dishes like grilled lamb skewers or falafel.
3. Simple sandwiches or wraps for a casual lunch.
4. As part of a brunch spread alongside quiche or frittata.
5. At barbecues alongside burgers and corn on the cob.

I’ve brought this salad to countless potlucks and picnics, and it always disappears quickly. The bright colors make it an attractive addition to any table setting.

Delicious Variations of Watermelon Cucumber Strawberry Salad

Want to mix things up? Try these tasty variations:

1. Add avocado cubes for creaminess and healthy fats.
2. Swap the feta for goat cheese for a tangier flavor profile.
3. Include thinly sliced red onion for a savory bite.
4. Add a handful of blueberries for extra color and antioxidants.
5. Toss in some arugula or baby spinach to make it more of a traditional leafy salad.
6. Sprinkle with toasted nuts or seeds (like pistachios or pumpkin seeds) for crunch.
7. Use basil instead of mint for an Italian-inspired twist.

I’ve tried all these variations and they’re all delicious in their own way. My current favorite is adding avocado and a handful of pistachios.

Top Tips for Making the Perfect Watermelon Salad

• Use seedless watermelon to avoid having to pick out seeds.
• Choose firm, slightly underripe watermelon for better texture in the salad.
• English or Persian cucumbers work best as they have fewer seeds.
• Pat the watermelon cubes with paper towels to remove excess moisture if your watermelon is very juicy.
• Prepare the salad close to serving time for the freshest taste and texture.
• If making ahead, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving.
• Chill your serving bowl in the refrigerator beforehand to keep the salad cool longer.
• Use a sharp knife for clean cuts on all fruits.
• For a more intense flavor, let the dressing sit for 10 minutes before adding to the salad.
• Taste and adjust sweetness – different watermelons have varying levels of sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Watermelon Cucumber Strawberry Salad last in the refrigerator?

This salad is best enjoyed the day it’s made, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. The fruits will release water as they sit, making the salad progressively more watery.

Can I make this salad ahead of time for a party?

Yes! Prep all ingredients and store them separately. Make the dressing and keep it in a jar. Combine everything just 30 minutes before serving.

Is this salad vegan?

The base recipe isn’t vegan due to the feta cheese, but you can easily make it vegan by using plant-based feta or omitting the cheese altogether.

What can I substitute for mint if I don’t have any?

Basil makes an excellent substitute, or you could try other herbs like tarragon or even cilantro for a completely different flavor profile.

Can I add protein to make this a complete meal?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would all be delicious additions to make this salad more substantial.

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