Name: Easy Watermelon Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Summer-Inspired
Ingredients: 3 cups seedless watermelon, cubed; 2 cups cucumber, sliced into half-moons or quartered; 1/4 cup fresh mint or cilantro, chopped; 2 tbsp fresh lime juice; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/4 tsp sea salt; Black pepper to taste; Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta

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Easy Watermelon Cucumber Salad is a crisp and hydrating summer side dish that combines juicy watermelon and crunchy cucumber with fresh herbs and a zesty lime dressing. Naturally vibrant, it’s the ultimate refresher for BBQs, picnics, or light, healthy meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is effortlessly fresh, colorful, and low in calories. With just five ingredients, it delivers refreshing sweetness, satisfying crunch, and a bright lime-herb flavor profile. Optional feta adds a savory dimension, making it a crowd-pleasing complement to grilled dishes or as a light, standalone snack.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Seedless watermelon, cubed
Cucumber, sliced into half-moons or quartered
Fresh mint or cilantro, chopped
Lime juice
Olive oil
Sea salt
Black pepper
(Optional) Crumbled feta

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the watermelon cubes and cucumber slices.
Add chopped mint or cilantro.
In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lime juice, olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately, or chill for 15–30 minutes to enhance the flavors. If using, sprinkle crumbled feta on top just before serving.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 90 kcal per serving

Variations

Use both mint and cilantro to boost the herbaceous aroma.
Add a splash of balsamic glaze for a sweet-acidic twist.
Include thinly sliced red onion or jalapeño for extra bite and spice.
Top with toasted pepitas or sunflower seeds for added texture.
Serve the salad over a bed of arugula or mixed greens to make it more substantial.

storage/reheating

This salad is best served fresh or lightly chilled. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The watermelon may release liquid over time—drain any excess before serving. Not suitable for freezing or reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen watermelon?

Frozen watermelon is not recommended as it becomes too watery when thawed.

Is it okay to prepare this ahead of time?

Yes—chill just before serving to retain freshness and flavor.

What’s the best herb to use?

Mint provides a cool freshness, while cilantro adds brightness. Use based on your preference or mix both.

Can I add a salty or sweet element?

Yes—sprinkle feta or drizzle honey or pomegranate molasses to enhance flavor.

Is this salad vegan-friendly?

Yes—omit feta or substitute with plant-based cheese to keep it vegan.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes—this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Will the salad get watery?

Watermelon tends to release juice when cut—best consumed the same day or drained briefly before serving.

Can I serve this at a barbecue?

Absolutely! Its cooling qualities pair perfectly with grilled meats and spicy dishes.

How do I keep it chilled outdoors?

Serve near a bowl of ice or place the salad bowl on a tray of ice during outdoor events.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp, unoaked rosé or a lightly chilled Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors nicely.

Conclusion

Easy Watermelon Cucumber Salad is the ultimate light and refreshing summer dish—vibrant, bright, and naturally hydrating. Perfectly balanced with sweet fruit, crisp vegetables, and herby lime dressing, it’s an effortless yet elegant addition to any warm-weather table. Whether poolside or picnic-ready, this salad will keep you cool and satisfied all season long.

Easy Watermelon Cucumber Salad

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Author: Mia
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegan

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Description

Crisp, hydrating, and naturally sweet—this watermelon cucumber salad combines juicy melon and crunchy cucumbers with fresh herbs and lime juice for the perfect refreshing summer side.