This Easy Peach Watermelon Salad is a refreshingly sweet treat for hot summer days! With juicy peaches and crisp watermelon, it’s light and tasty.
Plus, the best part? It takes just minutes to throw together. I often enjoy it at barbecues, and my friends always come back for more. It’s just that good! 🍑🍉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Choose a ripe watermelon for the best sweetness. If watermelon isn’t available, cantaloupe or honeydew can be nice substitutes, adding their own unique sweetness.
Peaches: Fresh, juicy peaches are ideal, but if they’re out of season, you can use nectarines or even canned peaches (drained) in a pinch.
Cucumber: I love using Persian cucumbers for their crispness, but English cucumbers work too. If you want, you could also use bell peppers for a different crunch!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a nice salty flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using tofu crumbles or almond feta to keep the flavor balance.
Mint: Fresh mint is a must for that refreshing taste. If you don’t have mint, basil can be an interesting substitute, adding a different taste to the salad.
How Do I Make the Perfect Watermelon Balls?
Making watermelon balls can elevate the salad’s presentation. Use a melon baller for perfectly round balls, which are fun and easy to eat! If you don’t have one, cutting the watermelon into small cubes works too. When cutting:
- Start by slicing the watermelon in half, then into quarters for easier handling.
- Use the melon baller, dipping it in water helps it glide smoothly through the flesh.
- Make sure to choose a ripe watermelon for good flavor; it should feel heavy and have a uniform shape.
These tips will make your preparation quick and enjoyable, leading to a beautiful salad presentation!
Easy Peach Watermelon Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups watermelon, cut into balls or cubes
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced thinly
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced (preferably Persian or English cucumber)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, cubed or crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (or lemon juice)
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup (optional for extra sweetness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad is quick and easy! It will take about 15 minutes to prepare and is perfect for serving immediately, or you can let it chill in the fridge for a bit to enhance the flavors. A win-win for any summer day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Watermelon:
Begin by cutting your watermelon into either fun balls using a melon baller or simply cube it into bite-sized pieces. This will add a delightful sweetness to the salad.
2. Slice the Peaches:
Next, take your ripe peaches, remove the pit, and slice them thinly. Their juicy texture pairs beautifully with the watermelon!
3. Slice the Cucumber:
Now, slice the cucumber into thin rounds. This will provide a nice crunch to your salad. Preferably, use Persian or English cucumbers for their crispness!
4. Combine All the Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, combine the watermelon, sliced peaches, cucumber, and crumbled feta cheese. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything without breaking up the ingredients too much.
5. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey (if using), salt, and pepper. This dressing will enhance the flavors of your salad.
6. Toss the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together to ensure each piece gets coated, creating a flavorful mix!
7. Add Fresh Mint:
To add a refreshing touch, add the chopped mint leaves to the salad. Toss lightly again to distribute the mint evenly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish your salad with extra mint leaves for a lovely presentation. Serve chilled or at room temperature, either as a side dish or a casual snack.
Enjoy this cooling, juicy, and slightly savory salad that’s just perfect for warm weather! 🍑🍉
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! While peaches and watermelon are delicious, you can also try using strawberries, blueberries, or even pineapple for a tropical twist. Just make sure to keep the flavor balance pleasant!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if stored, the flavors will meld together even more. Keep in mind that the cucumber may become slightly soggy.
Is There a Vegan Option for This Salad?
Yes! You can easily make this salad vegan by omitting the feta cheese or replacing it with a plant-based feta alternative or crumbled tofu for added texture while keeping it dairy-free!
Can I Make It Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the watermelon, peaches, and cucumber in advance and store them in the fridge. Just wait to add the dressing and mint until right before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant!
