Ingredients
For the salad:
- 4 cups seedless watermelon, cut into bite-size cubes
- 2 medium cucumbers, sliced
- ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled — optional
- 2 tbsp red onion, very thinly sliced — optional
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds — optional
For the dressing:
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1½ tbsp fresh lime or lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried oregano or Italian herbs
Instructions
- Prepare watermelon: Cut the watermelon into bite-size cubes and remove excess seeds.
- Prepare cucumber: Wash and slice cucumbers into thin rounds.
- Make dressing: Whisk olive oil, lime juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and herbs until well combined.
- Combine: Add watermelon, cucumber, mint, parsley, red onion, and feta to a large bowl.
- Dress: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss so the watermelon doesn’t break apart.
- Chill: Refrigerate for 10–15 minutes before serving.
- Finish: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and a little extra fresh mint.
Nutrition Information
Approx. per serving, without optional feta:
- Calories: ~150 kcal
- Protein: ~2 g
- Carbohydrates: ~18 g
- Fat: ~8 g
- Fiber: ~2 g
- Sugar: ~13 g
- Sodium: ~160 mg
Nutrition varies with watermelon size, dressing quantity, and optional ingredients.
Nutritional Benefits
- Watermelon: High in water content and provides vitamin C and lycopene.
- Cucumber: Light, hydrating, and provides vitamin K.
- Mint & parsley: Add antioxidants and fresh flavor.
- Olive oil: Provides mostly monounsaturated fats.
- Feta: Optional source of protein and calcium.
- Sesame seeds: Add healthy fats, minerals, and a little extra protein.
Q&A
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, but for the freshest texture, keep the dressing separate and combine just before serving.
Can I add cheese?
Yes. Feta is especially good with the sweet watermelon.
Can I make it without honey?
Yes. Simply omit it or use a small amount of maple syrup.
Can I add protein?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can turn this into a more filling meal.
How long does it last?
For best texture, eat within 24 hours. Keep refrigerated in an airtight container.
Is it good for summer?
Absolutely—it’s refreshing, hydrating, and requires no cooking.