Strawberry Watermelon Cucumber Salad

Prep Time: 15 minutes  |  Chill Time: 10 minutes (optional)  |  Total Time: 15–25 minutes  |  Servings: 6

Introduction

Strawberry watermelon cucumber salad is my go-to when I want something crisp, juicy, and seriously refreshing without turning on the stove. It’s special because it hits all the notes at once: sweet strawberries, hydrating watermelon, cool cucumber crunch, and a bright lime dressing that wakes everything up. Add fresh mint and a little creamy feta (optional), and you get that irresistible sweet-salty contrast that feels like summer in a bowl. The flavors are vibrant, clean, and lightly tangy—perfect for picnics, BBQs, or an easy lunch side. Quick tip: chill your fruit for at least 30 minutes beforehand for the coldest, crunchiest bite.

Ingredients

• 4 cups watermelon, cubed (24 oz / 680 g)
• 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced (10 oz / 280 g)
• 1 large English cucumber, sliced or half-mooned (12 oz / 340 g)
• ¼ cup red onion, very thinly sliced (40 g)
• ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, torn (10 g)
• 2 Tbsp fresh lime juice (30 ml)
• 1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (15 ml)
• 1 Tbsp honey or maple syrup, optional (15 ml)
• ½ tsp flaky or kosher salt (3 g), plus more to taste
• ¼ tsp black pepper (0.5 g)
• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled, optional (3 oz / 85 g)
• ¼ cup toasted pistachios or sliced almonds, optional (30 g)
• Zest of 1 lime, optional

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep and chill for the best texture. Cube the watermelon, slice the strawberries, and cut the cucumber into thin half-moons. If you have time, refrigerate for 10–30 minutes so the salad stays crisp and extra refreshing.
2. Soften the onion. Soak the thinly sliced red onion in cold water for 5 minutes, then drain well. This keeps the onion flavor gentle and sweet instead of sharp.
3. Make the lime dressing. Whisk lime juice, olive oil, honey or maple syrup (optional), salt, pepper, and lime zest. Taste—aim for tangy with a lightly sweet edge.
4. Combine gently. Add watermelon, strawberries, and cucumber to a large bowl and toss softly so the fruit keeps its shape.
5. Dress and rest. Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently again. Let sit 5 minutes (or chill 10 minutes) so flavors meld and the mint turns fragrant.
6. Finish and serve. Add mint right before serving for the freshest flavor. Top with feta and pistachios/almonds if using, then serve immediately.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make strawberry watermelon cucumber salad ahead of time?

Yes. Prep the fruit and cucumber up to 1 day ahead and store separately. Add dressing and mint right before serving to keep it crisp and less watery.

Q2: What can I use instead of mint?

Fresh basil is fantastic here. Cilantro also works for a brighter, citrusy vibe—especially if you skip feta.

Q3: How do I stop the salad from getting watery?

Use cold, firm watermelon, avoid over-mixing, and dress close to serving. If it releases extra juice, drain briefly or serve with a slotted spoon.

Edit This Article