Recipe for Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese: Easy, Healthy Summer Side

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Nothing says summer quite like a chilled watermelon salad with feta cheese.

Packed with juicy watermelon, salty feta, crisp vegetables, and a light vinaigrette, this dish is a favorite at picnics, cookouts, and any warm-weather gathering.

Each bowl serves up to 8 people, making it perfect for sharing.

This easy side comes together in minutes and brings a healthy mix of flavor and crunch to your table.

Along with fresh arugula and tomatoes, you get a boost of vitamins and antioxidants. It’s versatile enough to work as a light lunch, a side for grilled meats, or even a potluck star.

If you love simple recipes that feel special and leave you refreshed, try this easy recipe for watermelon salad with feta cheese.

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Ingredients for Recipe for Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese

A salad is only as good as its ingredients, and this watermelon salad with feta stands out because it sticks to fresh, quality foods.

Each addition brings something unique, whether it’s crunch, creaminess, sweetness, or a tangy pop.

Let’s break down what goes into this colorful side and why each choice matters.

Fresh Watermelon

Start with the juiciest foundation: 2 pounds of cubed, ripe watermelon. The naturally sweet crunch balances every salty and savory note in the bowl. A cold, seedless watermelon works best for easy prep and bold flavor in every bite.

Creamy Feta Cheese

4 ounces of feta cheese, cut into small cubes, add a creamy, tangy element. Feta’s unmistakable saltiness pairs perfectly with sweet watermelon. Choose a block you can cube yourself for the best presentation and texture.

Crisp Arugula

3 cups of fresh arugula bring a peppery bite that wakes up the palate. Its green leafiness ties the salad together, making every forkful a mix of flavors and textures.

Juicy Grape Tomatoes

8 ounces of grape tomatoes, sliced in half, add a juicy, tart element. Their touch of acidity helps cut through the richness of the feta and the sweetness of the watermelon.

Sliced Red Onion

1 cup of thinly sliced red onion gives a mild, sweet sharpness, adding crunch and color. Soaking the slices in ice water for a few minutes takes away any harshness if you prefer a milder taste.

Savory Black Olives

Half a cup of black olives (sliced or whole) sprinkle in a briny flavor. They help round out the flavors, delivering depth you can taste with every bite.

Olive Oil and White Balsamic Vinegar

The simple dressing uses 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 teaspoons of white balsamic vinegar. They gently coat the ingredients, letting every element shine without taking over the taste. For balance, add half a teaspoon of kosher salt to bring all the flavors together.

How to Make Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese: Step-by-Step Instructions

Making watermelon salad with feta cheese takes just minutes, but a careful touch helps each ingredient shine. This isn’t your average “toss and go” salad.

You want every cube and leaf just right, with every flavor balanced. Here’s how to build this refreshing bowl from start to finish, keeping everything crisp and beautiful.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds watermelon, cubed

• 4 ounces feta cheese, cubed

• 3 cups arugula

• 8 ounces grape tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced or whole

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 teaspoons white balsamic vinegar

• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Directions:

1. Mix the Dressing Start by whisking together 3 tablespoons olive oil, 2 teaspoons white balsamic vinegar, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt in a large bowl. This creates a zesty, light base that ties every bite together.

2. Add the Vegetables Next, drop in your 8 ounces grape tomatoes (halved), 3 cups arugula, 1 cup thinly sliced red onion, and 1/2 cup black olives. Toss gently to coat everything in the dressing. Doing this first lets the vegetables absorb the flavor without getting soggy.

3. Add the Watermelon and Feta Very gently, fold in the 2 pounds cubed watermelon and 4 ounces cubed feta. Use a spatula or soft spoon, turning the salad over softly to keep the feta cubes intact and avoid smashing the watermelon.

4. Taste and Adjust Taste a bite. If you want a bit more tang, add a splash more vinegar. If you like saltier flavors, sprinkle on a pinch more kosher salt.

5. Serve Chilled Serve the salad right away for best crunch and color. If you made it in advance, store covered in the fridge and give it one more gentle toss just before serving.

Nutrition and Serving Size

This watermelon salad with feta makes 8 hearty servings. Each serving is light yet satisfying, full of flavor and nutrients.

A single serving delivers:

• About 120 calories

• 5 grams of healthy fat

• 3 grams of protein

• 4 grams of sugar (mostly from the fruit)

• A solid boost of vitamin C, A, calcium, and antioxidants

With a mix of hydration from the watermelon, fiber from veggies, and protein from feta, you get a well-rounded side that keeps your plate fresh and your taste buds happy.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Salad

You don’t have to be a chef to get rave reviews on your watermelon salad with feta cheese . A few smart moves make a world of difference in taste and texture. These are simple tweaks anyone can use.

Picking a Ripe Watermelon

• Look for a melon with a creamy yellow spot where it rested on the ground. This means it ripened naturally and will be sweeter.

• Feel the weight. A ripe watermelon should feel heavy for its size.

• Knock on it. A hollow sound means it’s juicy and ready.

Enhancing the Flavor

Boost the flavor to fit your taste or mood:

• Sprinkle fresh mint or basil leaves on top for more aroma and a cool finish.

• Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra brightness, especially if your watermelon is very sweet.

• For a pop of spice, a light dusting of chili flakes or cracked black pepper works well.

• Toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds give a bit of crunch if you want added texture.

Handling Feta Like a Pro

• Buy feta in a block and cube it yourself rather than using pre-crumbled. Blocks are creamier and hold their shape.

• Chill the feta before cutting. Cold cheese stays firm and is less likely to smudge.

• Fold feta in last with a soft spatula. This keeps cubes looking fresh instead of turning everything into a creamy mess.

With a steady hand and a few clever tweaks, your watermelon salad with feta cheese will pop in flavor and stay picture-perfect every time you make it.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Watermelon salad with feta cheese catches the eye, but it also opens up a world of ways to serve and enjoy it.

This dish fits right in at relaxed summer meals, but it also plays well with a variety of foods and drinks.

Whether you’re planning a backyard feast, a light lunch, or a celebratory potluck, matching flavors brings out the best in this refreshing salad.

Let’s look at some top serving ideas and pairing options.

Where to Serve Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese

This salad is a crowd-pleaser in both simple and more dressed-up settings.

Here are some moments where it truly shines:

• Barbecues and Cookouts: The cool, crisp ingredients balance smoked and grilled main dishes beautifully.

• Picnics: Its sturdy ingredients and bright taste hold up well even as it sits out (just keep it chilled until serving).

• Potlucks and Buffets: It looks as good as it tastes, adding color to the table.

• Light Lunch or Dinner: Spoon a generous serving onto a plate with some crusty bread and you have a quick, healthy meal.

With flexible flavors and minimal mess, watermelon salad with feta cheese is a practical choice that rarely gets left behind.

Best Foods to Pair With Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese

Pairing brings out the full potential of your salad. The cool, sweet watermelon and savory feta pair well with foods from simple grilled meats to vegetarian staples. Some favorite match-ups include:

Grilled Proteins:

• Chicken breasts or thighs with a hint of citrus or herbs

• Lamb skewers or chops with rosemary

• Pork tenderloin glazed with honey and mustard

• Cedar plank salmon for a touch of smoke

Vegetarian Fare:

• Stuffed bell peppers or zucchini boats

• Chickpea or lentil patties

• Roasted sweet potatoes or cauliflower steaks

Breads and Grains:

• Slices of toasted baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough

• Farro or quinoa tossed lightly with olive oil and lemon

• Pita chips or naan triangles for a snack-style plate

Try serving your watermelon salad with feta cheese as a cool contrast to anything savory and warm.

The play between sweet, salty, and peppery notes keeps meals from feeling heavy during hot weather.

Drink Pairings

A great drink makes this colorful salad even more enjoyable. Whether you want something sparkling, chilled, or non-alcoholic, there are plenty of options:

• Chilled White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well, thanks to their fresh acidity.

• Rosé: Dry rosé complements the saltiness of feta and the sweetness of watermelon.

• Sparkling Water: Add a wedge of lime or cucumber for a zero-proof sip.

• Iced Tea: Lightly sweetened or infused with mint, this is a classic summer drink that never disappoints.

For gatherings, set up a drink station near the salad, so guests can enjoy a cool refreshment with every plate.

Toppings and Extra Garnishes

If you want to give your watermelon salad with feta cheese a finishing touch, toppings and garnishes can take things to the next level.

Some ideas you can sprinkle or toss in just before serving:

• Chopped fresh mint or basil for added aroma

• Toasted pumpkin seeds or pine nuts for crunch

• Freshly cracked black pepper or a dash of chili flakes for gentle heat

• A drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for extra sweetness

These finishing touches let everyone find their perfect flavor combo and turn a simple salad into a signature dish.

Nutritional Value and Health Benefits

There’s a reason watermelon salad with feta cheese has built a reputation as a feel-good summer side.

It brings together fresh fruit, leafy greens, creamy cheese, and heart-healthy olive oil, all in one colorful bowl.

Each bite isn’t just bright and refreshing—it’s packed with nutrients your body will thank you for.

Here’s a closer look at what you get with every serving

Packed with Vitamins and Minerals

This salad is a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, and plant-based nutrients.

• Watermelon is your main source of vitamin C and vitamin A. These vitamins support a strong immune system and keep your skin glowing.

• Arugula brings vitamin K for healthy bones and blood, and vitamin C for extra antioxidant support.

• Grape tomatoes offer vitamin C and potassium, fueling your muscles and promoting heart health.

• Red onion adds flavonoids, which can help protect your heart and may lower cholesterol.

• Feta cheese provides calcium for strong bones and teeth, along with a bit of protein to help you stay full.

Hydration and Refreshment

Hot weather calls for foods that keep you hydrated. Watermelon salad with feta cheese is a real winner here.

• Watermelon is about 92 percent water, making this dish one of the best ways to stay cool and refreshed on sunny days.

• Eating foods high in water content helps regulate body temperature and supports digestion.

Balance of Macronutrients

This salad offers a blend of carbs, protein, and healthy fats, which means long-lasting energy without a heavy feeling.

• Carbs come from watermelon and tomatoes, providing quick fuel for your body.

• Protein comes from feta, helping you feel satisfied.

• Healthy fats from olive oil support brain and heart health.

A typical serving breaks down like this:

• Calories: around 120 per serving

• Fat: 5 grams (mostly healthy fats from olive oil)

• Protein: 3 grams

• Sugar: 4 grams (mostly natural fruit sugars)

• Fiber: around 2 grams per bowl

Antioxidants and Plant Compounds

Not all benefits fit neatly into a calorie count. The colors in this salad signal lots of helpful antioxidants.

• Watermelon contains lycopene. This red pigment is an antioxidant linked to skin protection and heart health.

• Tomatoes add more lycopene and beta-carotene for eye health.

• Arugula and red onion bring in flavonoids, which help fight inflammation and support healthier cells.

Supports Heart Health

Each main ingredient adds something good for your heart.

• Olive oil and olives pack monounsaturated fats, which help lower bad cholesterol and support good cholesterol.

• Feta adds a touch of calcium and probiotics, great for your gut and your heart.

Portion-Friendly and Easy to Share

This recipe makes eight servings, which means it’s easy to portion out for group events—or enjoy leftovers the next day. Each serving fills you up without weighing you down.

Key benefits in a nutshell:

• Boosts energy while staying light

• Keeps you hydrated on warm days

• Loaded with antioxidants and vitamins

• Balanced blend of carbs, protein, and fat

• Simple to serve and share with friends and family

A bowl of watermelon salad with feta cheese checks all the boxes: nutritious, crowd-pleasing, and perfect on a summer table.

The smart mix of fresh ingredients means you’re not just eating lighter—you’re eating better.

Conclusion

Watermelon salad with feta cheese brings together bright flavor, a healthy dose of nutrients, and the kind of simplicity that lets any host shine.

The mix of sweet, salty, and crisp textures makes every bite something to look forward to, and the ingredients are as good for you as they are easy to find.

This crowd-pleaser ticks every box for summer meals—quick to prep, shareable, and a refreshing contrast to heavier dishes.

If you want a side that stands out at your next cookout or family dinner, give this watermelon salad with feta cheese a place on the table.