There are plenty of watermelon salads out there, but this is the one I come back to every summer. The crisp cucumber adds extra freshness, the feta brings creamy saltiness, and a sprinkle of Aleppo pepper adds just enough gentle warmth to make this salad a little different from the rest.
The first time I made this cucumber and watermelon salad with feta, mint, lime, and Aleppo pepper, the entire bowl got devoured in one sitting. It’s the salad I bring to summertime get-togethers more than any other, not only because it’s delicious, but also because it’s one of the easiest and quickest dishes to make in a pinch. It’s my oldest daughter’s absolute favorite, and she’ll happily eat the whole bowl, even though she doesn’t usually like feta! I love the creamy saltiness it adds, so I always include it.
My favorite flavor addition here is the Aleppo pepper. It’s one of my favorite seasonings. Aleppo pepper is a Middle Eastern chili pepper with a mild, slightly smoky, slightly fruity flavor that adds wonderful warmth to this refreshing dish. If you find yourself in need of a quick side on a hot summer day, give this a try!
Step by Step Instructions for Cucumber and Watermelon Salad with Feta, Mint, and Aleppo Pepper
Gather all ingredients: Watermelon, cucumber, lime, feta, mint, flaky sea salt, aleppo pepper.
Cut the rind away from the watermelon, then cut the flesh into bite-sized cubes. Add to a large bowl.
Quarter the cucumber lengthwise, then slice crosswise into ½-inch pieces. Add to the bowl, drizzle with lime juice, and gently toss to coat.
Sprinkle the feta, chopped mint, Aleppo pepper, and flaky sea salt over the salad and gently toss.
Taste and adjust with additional Aleppo pepper or flaky sea salt as desired.
Cucumber and Watermelon Salad with Feta, Mint, and Aleppo Pepper
A refreshing summer salad with crisp cucumber, juicy watermelon, creamy feta, fresh mint, and a hint of Aleppo pepper.
8
servings15
minutes0
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
1 English cucumber (skin on if organic)
1 mini watermelon (about 4 pounds), cut into bite-sized cubes
Juice of 1 lime
3-4 oz feta, crumbled
8-10 mint leaves, finely chopped
1/4 tsp Aleppo pepper (more to taste)
1/4 tsp flaky sea salt (more to taste)
Directions
- Cut away the rind from the watermelon, then cut the flesh into bite-sized cubes. Add to a large serving bowl.
- Quarter the cucumber lengthwise, then slice crosswise into ½-inch pieces. Add to the bowl, drizzle with the lime juice, and gently toss to coat.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta, chopped mint, Aleppo pepper, and flaky sea salt over the salad and gently toss just until everything is evenly combined. Taste and adjust with additional Aleppo pepper or flaky sea salt as desired.
- Serve immediately, or chill for 15-30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- *The watermelon and lime create a light, naturally juicy dressing, so no olive oil is needed.
- **Best enjoyed the day it's made. If preparing ahead, wait to add the feta, mint, and Aleppo pepper until just before serving for the freshest flavor and texture.
This was so delicious! I’ve made watermelon and feta salad before but it’s the first time I’ve added cucumber. The added light crunch brought it to another level. Perfect summer salad!
Oh – I am so so happy to hear this! So glad you tried it and loved it!
This could be a new” simple to make” refreshing salad/side
favorite!
I hope that’s what it will be for you! It is easy, quick, and delicious!
This could be a new” simple to make” refreshing salad/side!