Watermelon Feta Salad
What is more refreshing than a sweet, juicy watermelon on a hot summer’s day? When you combine it with crisp cucumber and salty feta, you have a simple and tasty salad that’s a perfect summertime side dish. Member’s Mark™ Black Peppercorn Grinder and Himalayan Pink Salt Grinder are the only seasonings you need to add – they add a subtle touch of depth without overpowering the salad. Add a sprig of mint for even more flavor!
Why Watermelon, Feta, and Cucumber Make the Perfect Combo
Watermelon, feta, and cucumber work so well together because each ingredient balances and enhances the others in a different way:
- Watermelon brings sweetness, juiciness, and a soft texture.
- Feta adds saltiness, creaminess, and a tangy bite.
- Cucumber contributes crispness, freshness, and a cooling flavor.
Together, they hit multiple flavor and texture contrasts at once:
- sweet + salty
- juicy + crunchy
- rich + refreshing
That contrast is what makes the combination feel especially satisfying and bright.
It also works from a temperature and seasonal standpoint. All three ingredients are:
- hydrating
- light
- best served chilled
- associated with warm-weather eating
The combo is common in Mediterranean-inspired dishes because salty cheeses pair naturally with fruit, especially melon. The feta sharpens the watermelon’s sweetness, while cucumber keeps everything crisp and clean-tasting instead of overly sugary.
A few ingredients make the pairing even better:
- fresh mint or basil
- lime juice
- olive oil
- black pepper
- balsamic glaze
- red onion
Visually, it’s appealing too — the pink-red watermelon, white feta, and green cucumber make the dish feel vibrant and fresh before you even taste it.
What to Serve with Watermelon Feta Salad
Watermelon feta salad pairs best with foods that are smoky, grilled, herb-forward, or lightly savory. Since the salad is cool, juicy, and refreshing, it balances richer mains especially well.
Great proteins to serve with it
Grilled meats
- lemon herb chicken
- grilled shrimp
- pork tenderloin
- steak with chimichurri
- lamb kebabs
These work because the salad cuts through char and richness.
Seafood
- cedar plank salmon
- blackened mahi mahi
- grilled scallops
- tuna skewers
The cool cucumber and watermelon are especially good against warm seafood.
BBQ and cookout pairings
- burgers
- grilled sausages
- barbecue chicken
- ribs
- pulled pork sandwiches
It’s a perfect “fresh side” for heavier summer cookout food.
Mediterranean-style menu ideas
Pair it with:
- hummus and pita
- couscous or orzo salad
- tzatziki
- falafel
- grilled vegetables
Light brunch or luncheon pairings
- smoked salmon crostini
- cucumber tea sandwiches
- prosciutto flatbread
- quiche
- sparkling rosé or a bellini
Bread and starch options
- grilled naan
- crusty sourdough
- herbed rice
- quinoa
- roasted baby potatoes
Watermelon Feta Salad
Ingredients
- 4 cups Watermelon cubed
- 2 cups Persian cucumber quartered
- ½ cup Feta cheese crumbled
- 1 tbsp Member's Mark™ Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Member's Mark™ Black Peppercorn Grinder as desired
- Member's Mark™ Himalayan Pink Salt Grinder as desired
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the watermelon and cucumber. Sprinkle on the feta, and then drizzle the Member's Mark™ Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Add desired amounts of Member's Mark™ Black Peppercorn Grinder and Member's Mark™ Himalayan Pink Salt Grinder. Toss to coat everything evenly.
- For even more flavor, try adding a sprig of mint or a drizzle of lime juice!