Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

Published: July 13, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: This salad can be made in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute meals or entertaining guests.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of juicy watermelon, creamy feta, and fresh herbs creates an explosion of taste in every bite.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap herbs or add other fruits to customize the salad to your liking.
Healthy and Refreshing: Packed with vitamins and low in calories, this salad is a guilt-free addition to any meal.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer BBQ, a picnic in the park, or a light lunch at home, this salad fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs, having the right tools on hand simplifies the process. Here are some essential tools you might need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Serving dish

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling.
Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife makes cutting watermelon cubes quick and easy.
Serving dish: A pretty serving dish enhances presentation, making your salad look even more appealing.

Ingredients

For this delightful salad, gather the following ingredients:

Fresh Ingredients

about 4 cups watermelon cubes (about 1 inch cubes)
3 Tablespoons olive oil
zest from 1 medium lemon
1 Tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 cup fresh mint, oregano, basil leaves, parsley, or dill, chopped (reserve a few whole leaves for garnish)
4 ounces feta cheese
3 cups fresh arugula (about 4oz-113g or 720ml)
freshly ground black pepper
kosher salt to taste, optional

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and your choice of herbs. Stir well until everything is mixed together.

Step 2: Add Watermelon

Carefully add the watermelon chunks into the bowl. Gently stir to coat all pieces with the dressing without mashing them.

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add feta cheese and arugula to the bowl. Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over everything. Gently toss all ingredients together until evenly combined.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your salad and add kosher salt if desired. Serve chilled for maximum freshness and flavor.

Enjoy your delicious Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs!

How to Serve Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

Serving watermelon salad with arugula, feta, and fresh herbs is a delightful experience. This refreshing dish pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your salad.

As a Side Dish

Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavor of grilled chicken complements the freshness of the salad perfectly.
Fish Tacos: Light fish tacos provide a crunchy texture that pairs well with the juicy watermelon.
Quinoa Bowl: Serve the salad alongside a quinoa bowl for a nutritious and filling meal.

On a Buffet Table

Charcuterie Platter: A colorful charcuterie board offers a variety of flavors that enhance the watermelon salad.
Bruschetta: Fresh bruschetta adds a tasty bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy feta.
Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad can round out your buffet and add heartiness to the meal.

For Meal Prep

In Mason Jars: Layer the salad ingredients in mason jars for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
With Grains: Serve over cooked barley or farro for added texture and nutrition in meal prep containers.

How to Perfect Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

Perfecting your watermelon salad is simple and rewarding. Here are some tips to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.

Bold Flavor Choices: Use fresh herbs like mint or basil to enhance the taste; they add brightness to each bite.
Quality Ingredients: Choose ripe watermelon and high-quality feta cheese for the best flavor experience.
Proper Chilling: Chill your salad for at least 30 minutes before serving; this helps meld all the flavors together.
Freshly Ground Pepper: Always use freshly ground black pepper for a more aromatic flavor compared to pre-ground options.

Best Side Dishes for Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

Pairing side dishes with your watermelon salad can create a wonderful dining experience. Here are some excellent options that go hand-in-hand with this refreshing dish.

Grilled Shrimp Skewers: These flavorful skewers add protein and a smoky touch that complements the salad’s sweetness.
Caprese Salad: The classic combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil brings vibrant colors and taste to your plate.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances summer vibes; consider grilling it for an extra layer of flavor.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies provides warmth and depth alongside your cool salad.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa make for a hearty side that is also visually appealing.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the salty feta in your watermelon salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a flavorful Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the taste and texture. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

Skipping the herbs: Fresh herbs bring vibrant flavors. Don’t skip them; they are essential for enhancing the salad’s taste.
Overdressing the salad: Too much dressing can overwhelm the delicate ingredients. Start with less and add more if needed.
Using unripe watermelon: A ripe watermelon is sweet and juicy. Always choose one that feels heavy for its size and has a uniform color.
Not chilling before serving: This salad is best served cold. Allow it to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Cutting ingredients too large: Uniformly sized pieces ensure even flavor distribution. Aim for bite-sized watermelon cubes and arugula leaves.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Best consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.
Keep salad dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent sogginess.

Freezing Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

Freezing is not recommended as it alters the texture of watermelon and arugula.
If necessary, consider freezing only herbs or feta separately for future use.

Reheating Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs

Oven: Not recommended; this salad is best served cold.
Microwave: Avoid heating; it will change the texture of the ingredients.
Stovetop: Do not reheat; serve chilled directly from the refrigerator.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I customize my Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs?

You can easily customize this salad by adding fruits like berries or peaches. Try different nuts or seeds for added crunch.

Can I make Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it a few hours in advance and refrigerate to allow flavors to meld. Just add arugula right before serving.

What other herbs can I use in this salad?

In addition to mint, you can use basil, oregano, dill, or parsley based on your preference. Each adds a unique flavor profile.

Is this Watermelon Salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s a refreshing option for meal prep. Just store the components separately until you’re ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

This Watermelon Salad with Arugula, Feta, & Fresh Herbs is not only refreshing but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Its combination of sweet watermelon and savory feta makes it perfect for summer gatherings or quick lunches. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs or add-ins! Try this recipe today and enjoy its vibrant flavors!

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