This simple Summer Watermelon Salad with Feta and Basil is incredibly delicious and so easy to prepare. The sweetness of the fruit is countered by the salty, savory ingredients. Take one bite and you’ll see why this is our favorite summer salad!
Watermelon. Is. Fabulous.
One of the highlights of summer in California is an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables. Watermelon, in particular, has always been one of my favorites. Just imagine the satisfaction you get from biting into a crisp, juicy slice of watermelon. Can't you taste the sweet flavors? Don't you feel the sun shining down on you?
Sliced watermelon is totally delicious, but why not shake things up a bit? My Watermelon and Feta Salad is a great way to use juicy, vine ripened watermelon in a easy recipe with maximum satisfaction.
Watermelon with Feta? YES.
You obviously know sweet + salty is a thing. Cool + creamy is too. The watermelon and Feta combo has the best of both: sweet melon and tangy, salty cheese, all topped with a tangy + savory citrusy dressing.
How Do You Make It?
Simply chop up the watermelon into bite sized cubes. Then, toss it with crumbled Feta cheese, fresh basil and shallots some shallots that soaked in lime juice for a few minutes. That's it. Totally simple, right?
If you're dairy-free, swap the Feta for a handful of chopped roasted + salted macadamia nuts, or use one on the DF Feta cheeses on the market.
How to tell if watermelon is ripe:
A ripe watermelon will feel sturdy and have a hollow sound when you give it a slight thump with your hand.
Get all the ripe watermelon selection tips from California Grown here.
Watermelon salad is an easy summer side:
If you’re looking to shake up your side dish game, try this Summer Watermelon Salad immediately. It’s a great alternative to traditional fruit salad and can be prepared in under ten minutes! Whip up a batch to serve at your next pool party or cookout. Pair it with my Peach Glazed Chicken and my friend Meg's Apple and Berry Rosé Sangria.
Need a cocktail to go with it? Try my friend Sarah's Sparkling Melon Summer Sangria or my Easy Single-Serving Sangria.
Watermelon Salad with Feta and Basil
Ingredients
- 3 ½ lbs seedless watermelon cut into 1 inch cubes
- 2-3 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 2 medium shallots thinly sliced
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves cut into thin strips
- 4 oz Feta cheese broken into large pieces
- Kosher salt and ground pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine sliced shallots & lime juice in a small bowl for a few minutes.
- Then, in a large bowl, toss the watermelon, basil, feta & shallot mixture.
- Sprinkle lightly with salt & pepper.
- Serve & enjoy!
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Photos by my friend Meg of This Mess Is Ours.
Sarah's Watermelon Lemonade recipe:
This easy fresh watermelon lemonade recipe from our friend Sarah is incredibly refreshing and tastes just like summertime!
Simple Watermelon Sorbet:
This deliciously easy watermelon sorbet recipe requires just three ingredients, plus it's incredibly refreshing. Try it soon!
Frequently Asked Questions about Watermelon Salad with Feta:
Feta cheese is the best pairing for watermelon. The tangy, salty cheese pairs beautifully with the sweet, crisp melon.
Yes! Watermelon pairs well with salty, briny cheeses like Feta. Other good options would be Cojita or shaved Parmesan.
Toss cubed watermelon and crumbed Feta cheese together with shallots or red onion soaked in lime juice. Add fresh basil over the top, and salt and pepper to taste. It's so easy!
In the U.S., watermelon harvest usually begins in late May and runs through the end of September. In warmer areas, you may be able to find watermelon at farmers markets through October.
Add a sprinkle of salt or a salty/spicy seasoning mix like Tajin. You can also toss cubed watermelon with Feta cheese and lime juice. The addition of a little salt and acid brings out the flavor of the melon. It makes a huge difference.
Sharon says
Was very refreshing. Making it again this week!
K.C. Cornwell says
It's one of my favorites too - I'm so glad you like it!