With its fresh, summery look, this dish is sure to please anyone. The vivid hues of juicy red watermelon juxtaposed against the crisp, green cucumber create a stunning color contrast that's simply eye-catching. As you savor each bite, the sweet, refreshing taste of watermelon pairs perfectly with the cool, crunchy cucumber, making this salad a truly revitalizing dish, perfect for hot days.
What is watermelon cucumber salad?
Watermelon cucumber salad is a refreshing and delightful summer dish that combines the sweet and juicy flavors of watermelon with the crisp and refreshing taste of cucumber. It is a popular side dish or appetizer, perfect for warm days when you crave something light, hydrating, and packed with flavor.
The salad consists of fresh, ripe watermelon and cucumbers that are chopped bite-sized pieces, mixed with crumbled feta, basil leaves, and a sweet and tangy dressing. These creates a beautiful contrast in taste and texture. The watermelon offers a burst of sweetness, while the cucumber adds a subtle, mild flavor and a satisfying crunch.
What do you need to make it?
Watermelon: It is best to use a ripe watermelon, as it well be sweet and juicy, with a satisfying melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Cucumber: Cucumber complements the watermelon by adding a crisp, cool, and slightly earthy taste. Its crunchy texture provides a delightful contrast to the softness of the watermelon. Additionally, cucumber’s high water content further enhances the salad’s refreshing qualities.
Crumbled Feta: Feta cheese adds a creamy and tangy dimension to the salad. Its saltiness balances the sweetness of the watermelon and cucumber, providing a savory element to the dish. The crumbled feta also contributes to the overall richness and helps bind the flavors together.
Basil Leaves: The fresh basil leaves bring an aromatic and herbaceous note to the salad. Chiffonading the basil leaves (cutting them into thin ribbons) releases their flavorful oils, enhancing the overall freshness and adding depth to the taste.
Olive Oil: The extra virgin olive oil serves as the dressing base, adding richness and a smooth mouthfeel to the salad. Because it is not too overpowering, it allows the other flavors to shine while bringing a subtle fruitiness to the mix.
Balsamic Vinegar: Balsamic vinegar adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the salad. It provides a contrast to the natural sweetness of the watermelon and cucumber, elevating the taste and adding complexity to the dish. We do not recommend using a different type of vinegar, as balsamic vinegar has a unique flavor profile.
Honey: Honey acts as a natural sweetener, enhancing the salad’s overall sweetness and balancing the acidity from the balsamic vinegar.
Serving suggestions
This watermelon cucumber salad is best served cold and can be garnished with some fresh herbs or lemon wedges. To enhance its refreshing qualities, consider serving it alongside drinks such as an iced tea or a lemonade.
Watermelon Cucumber Salad
Serves: 3 people
Ready in: 10 minutes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 2 cups of cubed watermelon
- 2 cups of chopped cucumber
- 1/2 cup of crumbled feta
- 3 basil leaves, chiffonade
- 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 tablespoon of honey
Method
Step 1
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, and honey.
Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, mix the watermelon with the cucumber. Add the crumbled feta and basil. Drizzle the dressing over the top of the salad and mix. Serve immediately.
Delicious Defined 
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