Fresh Watermelon and Cucumber Salad Recipe: Summer in a Bowl

Cool summer breezes whisper through this refreshing watermelon and cucumber salad that promises crisp, vibrant flavors.

Sweet chunks of fruit dance alongside cool cucumber slices in a light medley.

Mediterranean influences shine through each delectable bite.

Herbs add unexpected brightness to the combination.

Salt and pepper bring subtle depth to the ingredients.

Zesty lime juice ties everything together with a tangy punch.

Chill this salad and savor a delightful escape from the heat.

Serving Watermelon Cucumber Salad Ideas

• Summer Picnic Companion: Pack this refreshing salad in a sealed container for outdoor gatherings, beach trips, or backyard barbecues.
• Protein Power-Up: Top the salad with grilled chicken, feta cheese, or crumbled goat cheese to create a more substantial meal.
• Elegant Appetizer Twist: Serve the salad in small cocktail glasses or on individual spoons as a sophisticated starter for dinner parties or summer gatherings.
• Wine Pairing Delight: Complement the salad with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé to enhance the fresh, vibrant flavors.

Salad Storage for Maximum Crunch

• Store leftovers in a sealed glass or plastic container for up to 2 days, keeping the salad crisp and fresh in the refrigerator.
• Before storing, gently drain any accumulated liquid to prevent soggy vegetables and maintain the salad's texture.
• Do not freeze this salad, as cucumbers and watermelon will lose their crisp texture and become watery when thawed.
• Gently toss the chilled salad and drain any excess liquid, then serve immediately for the best taste and crunch.

FAQs

• What makes the dressing for this salad unique?

The dressing combines red wine vinegar, olive oil, and honey, creating a balanced sweet and tangy flavor that complements the fresh ingredients.

• Can I substitute ingredients if I don't have all of them on hand?

Yes, you can swap mint with basil, use white wine vinegar instead of red wine vinegar, or replace red onion with green onions if needed.

• Is this salad considered healthy?

Absolutely! Watermelon and cucumber are low in calories, high in water content, and packed with vitamins and minerals, making this a nutritious and refreshing option.

• How long can I keep this salad before it becomes soggy?

The salad is best consumed within 2-3 hours of preparation. After that, the vegetables might release more water and lose their crisp texture.

Crisp, Cool, and Crunchy: Watermelon Meets Cucumber

• Simplify Meal Prep: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and basic kitchen skills, making it an ideal choice for home cooks of all experience levels.
• Celebrate Versatility: Serve as a refreshing side dish, light lunch, or stunning appetizer that complements grilled meats, barbecues, and outdoor gatherings.
• Boost Healthy Eating: Packed with hydrating ingredients and minimal dressing, this salad offers a nutritious option that doesn't compromise on taste or satisfaction.

Watermelon and Cucumber Salad Ingredients

• Watermelon: Sweet summer fruit that provides a juicy and refreshing base for the salad.
• Cucumber: Crisp vegetable that adds a cool and light texture to the dish.
• Red Onion: Sharp and tangy ingredient that introduces a subtle bite to the salad.
• Fresh Mint: Aromatic herb that brings a bright and cooling flavor profile.

• Red Wine Vinegar, Olive Oil: Acidic and smooth base that creates a balanced and flavorful dressing.
• Honey: Natural sweetener that softens the vinegar's sharpness and adds depth to the dressing.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the overall taste of the salad.

Watermelon & Cucumber Salad Prep Guide

Step 1: Prepare Fresh Ingredients

Grab a crisp cucumber and juicy watermelon.

Slice both into bite-sized cubes.

Thinly chop a red onion for a zesty kick.

Gently tear fresh mint leaves into small pieces.

Step 2: Create Tangy Dressing

In a separate mixing bowl, pour red wine vinegar.

Add extra virgin olive oil for smoothness.

Drizzle honey for a subtle sweetness.

Sprinkle salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors.

Whisk everything until well blended.

Step 3: Combine Salad Components

Transfer cucumber and watermelon cubes into a large serving bowl.

Add chopped red onion and mint leaves.

Pour the prepared dressing over the ingredients.

Step 4: Toss and Chill

Gently mix all components with a large spoon, ensuring even coating of dressing.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap.

Place in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from refrigerator.

Give a quick stir.

Serve chilled as a refreshing summer side dish or light appetizer.

Garnish with additional mint leaves if desired.

Tips for the Freshest Salad Combo

• Cut watermelon and cucumber into uniform, bite-sized cubes for even flavor distribution and elegant presentation.
• Soak sliced red onions in cold water for 5 minutes to reduce sharp, overpowering taste and soften their bite.
• Tear mint leaves instead of chopping to release more aromatic oils and prevent bruising.
• Add honey gradually to control sweetness and balance vinegar's acidity for a perfect flavor profile.
• Let salad rest in refrigerator to allow flavors to meld and enhance overall taste experience.

Watermelon Cucumber Salad Variations

• Citrus Zing Salad: Replace red wine vinegar with fresh lime juice and add orange zest for a bright, tangy flavor profile.
• Greek-Inspired Version: Swap mint for dill, add crumbled feta cheese, and use lemon juice instead of red wine vinegar.
• Spicy Southwest Remix: Incorporate chopped jalapeños, replace honey with agave nectar, and sprinkle with cilantro for a zesty kick.
• Vegan Herb Harmony: Use maple syrup instead of honey, add fresh basil leaves, and include toasted pumpkin seeds for extra crunch and protein.

Watermelon and Cucumber Salad Recipe

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4.8 from 23 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Refreshing watermelon and cucumber salad delivers cool Mediterranean flavors perfect for summer gatherings. Fresh herbs and tangy feta cheese create a delightful balance you’ll crave on hot afternoons.

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Ingredients

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Fruits and Vegetables:

• 1 small watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 6 cups or 1.4 kg)
• 4 medium cucumbers, peeled, seeded, and chopped (about 500 grams)
• 1/2 red onion, finely diced (about 50 grams)
• Handful chopped fresh mint (about 15 grams)

Dressing Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon (21 grams) honey

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon (6 grams) kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon (3 grams) sea salt
• Pinch ground black pepper (about 0.5 grams)

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Instructions

1. Dice watermelon and cucumber into uniform, bite-sized cubes for consistent texture and balanced flavor profile.
2. Thinly slice red onion to create delicate, translucent rings that will distribute subtle sharpness throughout the salad.
3. Chop fresh mint leaves finely to release their aromatic oils and enhance the overall herbaceous quality of the dish.
4. Create a vibrant vinaigrette by whisking red wine vinegar with extra virgin olive oil, blending in honey for a touch of sweetness, and seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
5. Gently fold the prepared vegetables and herbs together in a spacious mixing bowl, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
6. Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad, using a light hand to coat the ingredients without overwhelming their natural flavors.
7. Toss the salad delicately to prevent crushing the tender watermelon and cucumber pieces, allowing the dressing to mingle with the fresh components.
8. Refrigerate the salad for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and develop, serving chilled for maximum refreshment.

Notes

• Customize the sweetness by adjusting honey levels to suit personal taste preferences.
• Swap red wine vinegar with balsamic or apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.
• Add crumbled feta cheese for a creamy, tangy dimension that complements the fresh ingredients.
• Enhance texture by toasting pumpkin or sunflower seeds as a crunchy topping right before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: No cooking method
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 70 kcal
• Sugar: 13 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 5 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg