Watermelon Cucumber Salad

Looking for the perfect way to cool down on a sweltering summer day? This refreshing Watermelon Cucumber Salad might just be your answer. Featuring cubes of juicy watermelon, crisp cucumbers, and a hint of fresh mint, this salad is a fresh summer treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, with a light and tangy dressing, makes it an ideal side dish for picnics, barbecues, or a simple family dinner. {And if you love cool and refreshing watermelon recipes, check out my recipe for Watermelon Limeade.}

It’s lucky that along with the middle-of-summer heat comes a whole variety of in-season fruits and vegetables that can be easily made into a simple, summer supper. One of my absolute favorites of these seasonal treats is watermelon. Juicy, sweet, and just perfect with a little salt. (I’m definitely in the camp of people who enjoy a little salt on my watermelon.) In fact, I often enjoy watermelon in a salad. If you’ve never tried it, it may sound strange, but a watermelon salad with a little salt and pepper, and a tart, vinegary dressing just makes the melon taste all the sweeter.

What I love most about this Watermelon Cucumber Salad is how it perfectly captures the essence of summer. The sweetness of the watermelon pairs so beautifully with the crisp, refreshing cucumber, creating a balance that’s both satisfying and light. The mint adds a fresh herbal note that takes it to the next level, while the simple dressing ties everything together without overpowering the natural flavors. It’s a dish that feels like a little slice of summer on a plate—perfect for those times when you want something easy, fresh, and incredibly delicious.

Ingredients for Watermelon Salad:

Watermelon – The star of the salad, watermelon adds a sweet, juicy, and refreshing base that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.

Cucumbers – Cucumbers bring a cool, crisp texture to the salad. Peeling and seeding are optional if using mini or English cucumbers, which are often more tender.

Onion – I prefer to use a red onion which adds a sharp bite of flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the watermelon and the mildness of the cucumbers. You can use any type of onion you prefer. 

Fresh Mint – I love the herbal freshness that mint adds to the salad, enhancing the overall brightness of the salad and adding a cooling effect.

Red Wine Vinegar – Vinegar adds a tangy acidity that balances the sweetness of the watermelon and honey, tying all the flavors together. I prefer red wine vinegar in this salad but white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar work well, too.

Olive Oil – I like to use extra virgin olive oil here. It adds a rich, smooth texture to the dressing, helping to meld the flavors while adding a subtle depth. 

Honey – Watermelon is already sweet, but a little bit of honey brings an extra touch of natural sweetness that complements the watermelon and balances the acidity of the vinegar. 

Salt – I prefer sea salt or kosher salt in this salad, but use whatever salt you typically cook with. Don’t leave out the salt, though, because it enhances the overall flavor of the salad, bringing out the sweetness in the watermelon and adding a savory note to the dish.

Black Pepper – A pinch of ground black pepper adds a mild, spicy warmth, rounding out the flavors with a subtle kick.

My Tips for Making Watermelon Cucumber Salad:

• Choose Ripe Watermelon. Select a ripe, juicy watermelon for the best flavor. Look for one that feels heavy for its size, with a uniform shape and a creamy yellow spot on one side, which indicates ripeness.
• Opt for Seedless Cucumbers. If using regular cucumbers, consider peeling and seeding them to avoid a watery salad. Mini or English cucumbers are a great option as they have thinner skins and fewer seeds, which can save you some prep time.
• Chill Before Serving. For the most refreshing experience, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures the salad is cool and crisp.
• Adjust Seasonings to Taste. Taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might find that a little extra salt, pepper, or a drizzle of honey brings the flavors into perfect balance.
• Serve Fresh. This salad is best enjoyed fresh. If preparing in advance, keep the dressing separate and toss it with the salad 30 minutes before serving to maintain the crispness of the ingredients.
• Add Feta or Goat Cheese (Optional). For a savory twist, consider adding crumbled feta or goat cheese. The creamy, salty cheese pairs wonderfully with the sweet watermelon and tangy dressing. It’s so delicious!

This Watermelon Cucumber Salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp for a light and refreshing complement to your main course. It’s also a great match for barbecued meats, bringing a cool, fresh contrast to smoky flavors. For a vegetarian option, pair it with a grain-based dish like quinoa or couscous to round out a summer meal.

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So that’s all there is to making this refreshing Watermelon Salad. If you make it, I hope you love it. And don’t forget to follow me on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram so you don’t miss a post. 

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