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Fresh Cucumber Watermelon Salad with Zesty Lime Dressing

fresh cucumber watermelon salad - featured image

A light, refreshing summer salad combining crisp cucumber, juicy watermelon, and a tangy lime dressing with fresh mint and optional feta cheese for a perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups seedless watermelon, cubed (about 300g / 10.5 oz)
  • 1 large cucumber, peeled and diced (about 200g / 7 oz)
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons thinly sliced red onion (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave nectar
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the produce: Peel and dice the cucumber into roughly 1/2-inch pieces. Cube the seedless watermelon to a similar size, removing seeds if any. Finely chop the fresh mint leaves and thinly slice the red onion if using.
  2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, combine fresh lime juice, honey or agave nectar, olive oil, minced garlic, and chili flakes. Whisk or shake vigorously until the honey dissolves and the dressing emulsifies. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Combine salad ingredients: In a medium bowl, place the diced watermelon, cucumber, chopped mint, and red onion. Sprinkle feta cheese over the top if using. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, being careful not to break up the watermelon cubes.
  4. Let it rest (optional): Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to let flavors meld for deeper taste.
  5. Serve: Transfer to a serving dish or individual bowls. Garnish with whole mint leaves or extra chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately for maximum freshness and crunch.

Notes

Use ripe but firm watermelon and crisp cucumbers to avoid sogginess. Dress salad just before serving to keep it fresh. Optional feta can be omitted or replaced with toasted seeds for a vegan version. Letting the salad rest for 10-15 minutes enhances flavor. If salad looks watery, drain briefly on paper towels before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber salad, watermelon salad, summer salad, lime dressing, fresh mint, healthy salad, easy salad recipe, vegan salad option