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Refreshing Spicy Watermelon Cucumber Salad Recipe with Feta and Mint Lime

spicy watermelon cucumber salad - featured image

A vibrant and refreshing summer salad combining sweet watermelon, crisp cucumber, tangy feta, fresh mint, and a spicy lime dressing for a perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups seedless watermelon, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 large cucumber (about 1.5 cups), peeled and diced
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese (about 150g)
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped or torn (about 10g)
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 to 1 teaspoon chili flakes, adjust to taste
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, a pinch
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons thinly sliced red onion

Instructions

  1. Prepare the produce: Cut about 4 cups of seedless watermelon into bite-sized cubes. Dice 1 large cucumber into similar-sized pieces. If using, thinly slice 2 tablespoons of red onion.
  2. Mix the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, combine 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 to 1 teaspoon chili flakes, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Add 1 teaspoon honey or agave if desired. Whisk or shake until emulsified.
  3. Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, gently toss the watermelon, cucumber, and optional red onion with the dressing, being careful not to break up the watermelon.
  4. Add feta and mint: Crumble 1 cup of feta cheese over the salad. Sprinkle chopped or torn mint leaves on top.
  5. Final toss and taste: Gently fold everything together once more. Adjust seasoning with more salt or lime juice if needed.
  6. Chill if desired: Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to let flavors meld.

Notes

Use firm but ripe watermelon to avoid sogginess. Toss gently to keep watermelon cubes intact. Adjust chili flakes to your spice tolerance. For best flavor, use fresh lime juice. Prepare produce ahead but add feta and mint just before serving to maintain freshness. Drain excess liquid if watermelon is very juicy.

Nutrition

Keywords: watermelon salad, cucumber salad, summer salad, spicy salad, feta cheese, mint lime dressing, refreshing salad, gluten-free salad, vegetarian salad