Watermelon Cucumber Salad
Fresh, juicy, and packed with cooling flavors—this Watermelon Cucumber Salad is the perfect summer side dish. It’s vibrant, easy to throw together, and delivers a refreshing bite in every spoonful.
This salad was born on a sweltering July afternoon when I needed something light but satisfying for a backyard BBQ.
With some watermelon left in the fridge, cucumbers from the garden, and a splash of creativity, this zesty-sweet salad came to life.
Since then, it’s become a seasonal staple—simple, colorful, and always a crowd favorite.
Why You’ll Love This
- Incredibly Refreshing: Crisp cucumbers and juicy watermelon make this salad hydrating and light—ideal for hot summer days.
- Minimal Ingredients: You only need a few fresh ingredients and pantry staples to whip it up.
- Crowd Pleaser: Whether it’s a potluck, picnic, or dinner party, this salad always disappears fast.
- Customizable: Add feta, mint, or a hint of chili for a twist—it’s versatile and adaptable.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Cuisines: American, Mediterranean
Servings: 4–6
Estimated Cost: $5–7
Equipment
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Salad tongs or serving spoon
Ingredients
- 4 cups cubed watermelon (seedless)
- 2 cups cucumber, thinly sliced (English or Persian recommended)
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Cracked black pepper, to taste
- Optional: ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the produce: Cube the watermelon and slice the cucumber and red onion thinly. Chop the mint leaves.
- Combine: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the watermelon, cucumber, red onion, and mint together.
- Dress it up: Drizzle in the lime juice and olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
- Optional add-in: For a tangy, creamy contrast, fold in the crumbled feta cheese.
- Chill & serve: Let the salad chill in the fridge for about 10 minutes before serving for an even more refreshing taste.
Tips for Success
- Use cold ingredients: Chill your watermelon and cucumber before prepping to keep the salad extra crisp.
- Balance flavors: If your watermelon is very sweet, add a pinch of salt or a little extra lime to enhance contrast.
- Add crunch: Try tossing in some chopped pistachios or almonds just before serving.
- Serve immediately: This salad is best served fresh—avoid letting it sit too long, or it may become watery.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 95
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 180mg
Watermelon Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
- 4 cups cubed watermelon seedless
- 2 cups cucumber thinly sliced (English or Persian recommended)
- ¼ cup red onion thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves chopped
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Cracked black pepper to taste
- Optional: ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Prep the produce: Cube the watermelon and slice the cucumber and red onion thinly. Chop the mint leaves.
- Combine: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the watermelon, cucumber, red onion, and mint together.
- Dress it up: Drizzle in the lime juice and olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
- Optional add-in: For a tangy, creamy contrast, fold in the crumbled feta cheese.
- Chill & serve: Let the salad chill in the fridge for about 10 minutes before serving for an even more refreshing taste.
Notes
- Use cold ingredients: Chill your watermelon and cucumber before prepping to keep the salad extra crisp.
- Balance flavors: If your watermelon is very sweet, add a pinch of salt or a little extra lime to enhance contrast.
- Add crunch: Try tossing in some chopped pistachios or almonds just before serving.
- Serve immediately: This salad is best served fresh—avoid letting it sit too long, or it may become watery.
Common Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients in advance, but combine and dress them just before serving to avoid sogginess.
What type of cucumber works best?
English or Persian cucumbers are ideal because they have thinner skins and fewer seeds.
Can I skip the feta?
Absolutely! The salad is delicious without it, but feta adds a nice salty creaminess.
What other herbs can I use instead of mint?
Fresh basil or cilantro are great alternatives, depending on your flavor preference.
Thanks for stopping by!
Whether you’re enjoying it by the pool or serving it up at a picnic, this Watermelon Cucumber Salad is sure to bring a refreshing pop to your plate.
Wishing you sunny days, happy bites, and flavorful moments!
