Hamdi Saidani Watermelon Salad is a light, fresh, and juicy dish perfect for hot summer days. Made with sweet watermelon, fresh herbs, and tangy cheese, this salad is easy to make, budget-friendly, and great for BBQs or healthy lunches. It serves 4 and takes only 10 minutes to prepare.
💖 Why You’ll Love This Watermelon Salad
- Cool and refreshing – The juicy watermelon makes this salad extra hydrating, perfect for hot summer days when you need a light dish.
- Only a few ingredients – Just a handful of simple, fresh ingredients come together to create bold flavor without much effort.
- Ready in 10 minutes – Quick to throw together when you’re short on time or need a last-minute side dish.
- Naturally gluten-free – No need to worry about gluten; this salad is safe for those with sensitivities.
- Vegan-friendly if you skip the cheese – Just leave out the feta or use a vegan alternative to make it 100% plant-based.
- Great for summer parties and BBQs – It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with grilled foods, burgers, or picnic spreads.
🍉 Ingredients
- 4 cups watermelon, cubed
- ½ cup cucumber, sliced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint or basil, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime or lemon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
🥗 Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the watermelon, cucumber, and red onion.
- Add crumbled feta cheese and fresh herbs.
- In a small bowl, whisk the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently.
- Chill for 5–10 minutes or serve immediately.
✅ Tips for Best Results
- Use cold watermelon for a crisp texture.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes if you like spice.
- Swap feta for goat cheese or leave out for a vegan version.
- Add arugula or baby spinach for extra greens.
🍹 What To Serve With Watermelon Salad?
Serve Watermelon Salad with grilled meats like chicken, shrimp, or steak it also pairs well with veggie skewers, crusty bread, or as a light side next to burgers, wraps or sandwiches. Fresh lemonade or iced tea completes the meal.
🧊 How To Store Leftovers Watermelon Salad?
In the fridge: Store leftovers watermelon salad in a sealed container for up to 2 days. Best served fresh.
❓FAQs
Can I make Watermelon Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Watermelon Salad ahead of time, but it’s best to keep the ingredients separate and mix in the dressing right before serving. This helps the Watermelon Salad stay fresh, crunchy, and not too watery.
Can I use feta alternatives in Watermelon Salad?
Yes, you can replace feta in Watermelon Salad with goat cheese, mozzarella balls, or even vegan cheese. Each gives a different flavor profile, and skipping cheese entirely still makes a delicious Watermelon Salad.
Can I use yellow watermelon in Watermelon Salad?
Yes, yellow watermelon can be used in Watermelon Salad. It has a slightly different sweetness but still works well and adds a bright visual contrast, making the Watermelon Salad even more appealing.
How do I keep Watermelon Salad from getting soggy?
To avoid soggy Watermelon Salad, drain any juice from the watermelon before mixing and always add the dressing just before serving. This helps keep the Watermelon Salad crisp and fresh.
What kind of cucumber is best for Watermelon Salad?
English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are best for Watermelon Salad. They have fewer seeds, thinner skin, and a mild flavor, which complements the watermelon well in Watermelon Salad.
🥄 Nutrition Facts (1 Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 120
- Carbs: 15g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 5g
- Sugar: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
