Prep Time 15 mins
Rest Time 10 mins
Total Time 25 mins
Cuisine: ,
Courses: , ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 4
Best Season: Summer
Description

A light, refreshing, and spicy-sweet Watermelon & Cucumber Salad with Lime Chili Dressing that's perfect for hot summer days. This vibrant salad combines juicy watermelon, crisp cucumber, and a zesty lime chili dressing for a healthy side dish or snack that bursts with flavor. Ready in just 15 minutes and packed with hydrating ingredients.

Ingredients
    For the Salad Base
  • 4 cups watermelon (cubed)
  • 1.5 cups cucumber (thinly sliced)
  • 0.25 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
  • 0.25 cup fresh mint leaves (roughly torn)
  • 0.25 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
    • For the Lime Chili Dressing
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1 large lime)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin)
  • 0.5 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 0.25 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
  • 0.25 tsp honey (optional for added sweetness)
Instructions
    Prepare the Produce
  1. 1
    Start by cutting the watermelon into bite-sized cubes. Peel and thinly slice the cucumber. If using red onion, slice it thin and soak in cold water for 5 minutes to mellow its sharpness. Drain and pat dry. Roughly tear mint leaves for a fresh herbal note.
    2. Make the Lime Chili Dressing
  2. 2
    In a small bowl or jar, whisk together fresh lime juice, olive oil, chili flakes, sea salt, and honey. Mix well until the dressing is emulsified and well balanced. Adjust chili and honey to taste.
    3. Assemble the Salad
  3. 3
    In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the watermelon cubes, cucumber slices, red onion, and mint leaves. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss very gently to coat without breaking the watermelon pieces.
    4. Finish and Serve
  4. 4
    Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and give a final light toss. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 10 minutes to let flavors meld. Best served cold on a hot day.
Note

Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Watermelon may release extra juice, so drain before serving leftovers.

Make it Vegan: Omit feta or replace with plant-based feta crumbles.

Add crunch: Toss in some toasted pumpkin seeds or crushed roasted peanuts before serving.

Flavor twist: Add a pinch of cumin powder or Tajín for extra depth.

Keywords: quick, healthy, refreshing, summer salad, easy recipe
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/watermelon-cucumber-salad-with-lime-chili-dressing/