This vibrant and refreshing salad combines the sweetness of watermelon with the crispness of cucumber and the tanginess of feta cheese. It’s a perfect dish for summer gatherings, picnics, or a light, healthy lunch. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sliced red onion, cut lengthwise
• 3 tablespoons lime juice
• 15 cups cubed watermelon (about 1 medium to large watermelon)
• 3 cups cubed English cucumber
• 1 (8-ounce) package feta cheese, crumbled
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Cracked black pepper, to taste
• Sea salt, to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Slice the Red Onion: Peel and thinly slice the red onion lengthwise. The thin slices will help distribute the onion’s flavor more evenly throughout the salad, enhancing each bite.
2. Cube the Watermelon: Cut the watermelon into bite-sized cubes. For ease of cutting, first remove the rind and seeds, then slice the flesh into manageable pieces.
3. Cube the Cucumber: Cut the English cucumber into cubes that match the size of the watermelon cubes. This ensures that every bite of the salad has a balanced mix of flavors and textures.

Step 2: Marinate the Onion

1. Combine Onion and Lime Juice: Place the sliced red onion in a small bowl and cover with lime juice. Allow it to marinate for about 5-10 minutes. This step helps mellow the sharpness of the onion and infuses it with a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the watermelon.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the cubed watermelon, cubed cucumber, and marinated red onion (including the lime juice). Be careful not to mash the watermelon cubes as you mix.
2. Add Feta and Cilantro: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh cilantro over the salad. The feta adds a creamy, salty dimension, while the cilantro brings a fresh, herbaceous note.

Step 4: Season and Serve

1. Season to Taste: Add cracked black pepper and sea salt to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference, starting with a small amount and tasting as you go.
2. Gently Toss: Use a large spoon or spatula to gently toss the salad, ensuring that all ingredients are well combined without breaking up the watermelon cubes.
3. Chill or Serve Immediately: The salad can be served immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.

Cooking Tips:

• Choose a Ripe Watermelon: For the best flavor, select a ripe, sweet watermelon. A ripe watermelon will be juicy and have a deep, rich color.
• English Cucumber: English cucumbers are ideal for salads due to their fewer seeds and thinner skin. If using regular cucumbers, you might want to peel them and remove the seeds to avoid excess moisture.
• Feta Cheese: Opt for high-quality feta cheese for the best taste. You can use a more tangy or creamy variety based on your preference.
• Mint Option: If you prefer a different herb, fresh mint is a great alternative to cilantro and adds a refreshing twist to the salad.

FAQs:

Q: Can I make this salad in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours before serving. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. However, it’s best to add the feta cheese and cilantro just before serving to keep them fresh.

Q: Can I use other types of cheese?
A: Yes, if you’re not a fan of feta, you can substitute it with other cheeses like goat cheese or even a mild cheese like mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to this salad?
A: Absolutely! You can add diced avocado for creaminess, sliced red bell peppers for a bit of crunch, or even a handful of nuts like walnuts or almonds for added texture.

 

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be consumed within 2 days for the best quality. The salad may release some juice over time but will still be delicious.
• Avoid Freezing: This salad does not freeze well due to the high water content in the watermelon and cucumber. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 140
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 350mg