Fresh, juicy, and wildly refreshing, the watermelon feta balsamic vinegar salad is your go-to dish when the temperature climbs. With sweet melon cubes, tangy feta, a drizzle of honey-balsamic vinaigrette, and cool mint, this Mediterranean-inspired salad brings bold flavor with little effort. It’s a perfect make-ahead for picnics, BBQs, or quick lunches.
Looking for inspiration? Try this viral pink salt recipe for another summer-friendly wellness boost.

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Table of Contents
Why Watermelon Feta Balsamic Vinegar Salad Is the Perfect Summer Combo
The Sweet and Salty Balance in Flavor Profiles
There’s a reason chefs and home cooks adore this combo, watermelon’s crisp, sugary bite perfectly offsets feta’s creamy saltiness. Together, they form a harmonious duo that pleases almost every palate.
The Mediterranean Tradition of Cheese with Fruit
This pairing has deep roots in Mediterranean cuisine, where cheese and fruit often share the same plate. Greeks, in particular, have long enjoyed feta with grapes, melon, or even figs, a no-fuss, nutrient-dense snack that naturally evolved into today’s stylish summer salads.
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Watermelon Feta Balsamic Vinegar Salad
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 sides or 1 large bowl 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A refreshing summer salad made with sweet watermelon, creamy feta, fresh mint, and a honey balsamic vinaigrette. It’s light, quick to assemble, and perfectly balanced in flavor, a crowd-pleaser at BBQs, potlucks, or solo meals.
Ingredients
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2 cups watermelon (cubed)
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2 oz feta cheese (cubed or crumbled)
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2 tsp balsamic vinegar
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1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
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½ tsp honey
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¼ cup fresh mint (chopped)
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1–2 tsp sesame seeds
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Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine watermelon cubes, crumbled or cubed feta, and chopped mint.
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In a separate small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, and a pinch of salt.
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Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine without breaking up the watermelon.
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Sprinkle with sesame seeds and top with freshly cracked black pepper.
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Chill in the refrigerator for 30–60 minutes before serving for best flavor.
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- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish, Appetizer
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Greek, American Summer Fusion
Nutrition
- Calories: 165 kcal
- Sugar: 14g (natural)
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 5–6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Key Benefits of Watermelon Feta Balsamic Vinegar Salad
Nutritional Breakdown: Calories, Vitamins & Hydration
A single serving of Watermelon Feta Balsamic Vinegar Salad offers about 165 calories and a punch of nutrients. Watermelon hydrates with over 90% water content and brings in vitamin C, A, and lycopene, while feta contributes calcium and protein, a great balance of macros and micronutrients.
Health Advantages of Balsamic Vinegar and Mint
Balsamic vinegar delivers polyphenols and digestion-aiding properties. Combined with fresh mint, known to soothe the gut and enhance flavor, it turns a basic fruit salad into a wholesome dish.
Don’t miss our 3-ingredient Brazilian Mounjaro recipe for another nutrition-packed idea.
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best Watermelon Feta Balsamic Vinegar Salad
Freshness First: Choosing the Right Watermelon & Feta
Start with a firm, sweet, seedless watermelon. Look for one with a creamy yellow field spot, dry stem, and a deep “thump” when tapped. For the feta, go for block-style Greek feta packed in brine, it’s creamier and less salty than crumbled types. You want chunks, not crumbs.
Pantry Staples: Olive Oil, Balsamic, Honey, Mint & Sesame
Here’s everything you’ll need:
Ingredient | Quantity |
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Watermelon (cubed) | 2 cups |
Feta cheese (cubed) | 2 oz |
Balsamic vinegar | 2 tsp |
Extra virgin olive oil | 1 tsp |
Honey | ½ tsp |
Fresh mint (chopped) | ¼ cup |
Sesame seeds | 1–2 tsp |
Salt & Pepper | To taste |
Keep it chilled until ready to toss.
Discover great ideas like our sweet potato cottage cheese bowl for another simple, protein-packed option.
How to Make Watermelon Feta Balsamic Vinegar Salad
Step-by-Step Salad Assembly (With Visual Guide)
- In a large bowl, gently mix cubed watermelon, feta, and fresh mint.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, and a pinch of salt.
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss everything until coated.
- Top with sesame seeds and freshly cracked pepper.
Tips for Mixing Without Mushing the Watermelon
- Use a wide bowl to avoid stacking ingredients.
- Toss with a silicone spatula or use your hands.
- Chill the salad in the fridge for 30–60 minutes before serving to let the flavors deepen.
Check out our date bark recipe for another easy no-cook treat to round out your summer meal.
Best Dressings for Watermelon Feta Balsamic Vinegar Salad
Simple Balsamic Reduction vs. Honey Balsamic Vinaigrette
The classic dressing here is a quick vinaigrette of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and honey, just enough to complement the salad without overpowering it. Want a richer flavor? Reduce balsamic vinegar on the stove for 5–7 minutes until thick and syrupy. This makes a bold, slightly sweet glaze.
Dressing Type | Flavor Profile | When to Use |
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Honey Balsamic Vinaigrette | Light, balanced, tangy-sweet | Everyday lunch or light meals |
Balsamic Reduction | Bold, rich, slightly sweet | Fancy plating or party platters |
Dressing Variations Using Herbs, Citrus, and Oils
Try adding crushed garlic, orange zest, or fresh basil to your dressing. You can even swap honey for maple syrup or agave. For a nutty twist, sprinkle crushed pistachios or almonds right before serving.

Don’t miss our dubai chocolate strawberry cup to pair dessert with your fruity feta salad.
Creative Serving Suggestions and Pairings of Watermelon Feta Balsamic Vinegar Salad
Side Dish, Light Meal or Party Platter Ideas
The Watermelon Feta Balsamic Vinegar Salad isn’t just a side dish, it can be the star of your summer table. Serve it in a hollowed watermelon bowl for a wow effect at cookouts. Or plate it individually over baby spinach for a fuller meal.
Serving Style | Best For |
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Watermelon Bowl | BBQs, potlucks, summer parties |
Small Glass Jars | Picnics, meal-prep |
Greens Base | Light lunch or dinner salad |
Pairing with Proteins: Chicken, Lamb, or Grilled Seafood
The tangy-sweet profile of this salad makes it perfect with grilled meats. Pair it with lemon-herb chicken, garlic lamb skewers, or even grilled shrimp for a complete meal.
Check out our blue salt trick to boost hydration and electrolytes during summer heat.
Storage, Meal Prep, and Shelf Life Tips
How Long Does watermelon feta balsamic vinegar salad Last in the Fridge?
Your watermelon feta balsamic vinegar salad will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed within 24 hours. The longer it sits, the more the watermelon releases liquid, which can water down both texture and flavor.
To extend freshness:
- Store dressing separately and mix before serving.
- Use an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture.
- Avoid freezing, watermelon doesn’t thaw well.
Preventing Watery Leftovers: Key Tricks
To avoid sogginess, drain watermelon cubes for 15 minutes before combining them with other ingredients. You can also salt the watermelon lightly and pat it dry with a paper towel. Another trick? Use crumbled feta on top after dressing to preserve its creamy texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making This Salad
Choosing the Wrong Watermelon or Overdressing
A bland or mushy watermelon will ruin your watermelon feta balsamic vinegar salad. Always pick a ripe melon that feels heavy for its size, has a creamy yellow spot, and sounds hollow when tapped. Also, resist the urge to drown your salad in dressing, light tossing is all it takes.
Skipping Chill Time Before Serving
Don’t serve this salad immediately. The vinaigrette needs time to soak into the watermelon and mint to infuse the flavors. A quick 30-minute chill in the fridge transforms a decent salad into a phenomenal one.
Nutritional Info and Calorie Count Breakdown
Exact Caloric Value per Serving (Approx. 165 kcal)
A single serving of this watermelon feta balsamic vinegar salad (about 1.25 cups) delivers around 165 calories. It’s light enough for a snack but balanced enough to work as a meal when paired with protein or grains.
Macro & Micro Nutrient Insights: Fiber, Protein, Sugar
Here’s a nutritional breakdown based on the basic recipe:
Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
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Calories | 165 kcal |
Protein | 5–6g |
Carbs | 18–20g |
Natural Sugars | 14g |
Fat | 7g (mostly healthy fats) |
Fiber | 1.5g |
Vitamin C | 21% DV |
Calcium | 10% DV |
This salad gives you a solid hit of hydration, natural sweetness, and savory satisfaction, all under 200 calories.
Conclusion
Whether you’re throwing a backyard BBQ or just want something bright for lunch, this watermelon feta balsamic vinegar salad is your ultimate solution. It’s hydrating, tangy, refreshing, and satisfying, all in one easy-to-make bowl.
Don’t miss our dubai chocolate donut for the perfect decadent dessert to follow this light and healthy meal.
FAQs: Watermelon Feta Balsamic Vinegar Salad
How to make watermelon and feta salad with balsamic sauce?
Combine cubed watermelon, feta cheese, and chopped mint in a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Drizzle over the salad, toss gently, and chill before serving.
Does balsamic vinegar go with feta salad?
Yes, balsamic vinegar adds tangy sweetness that pairs perfectly with salty feta, making it an ideal complement for fresh fruit-based salads.
What dressing goes on watermelon feta salad?
The classic dressing is a light honey balsamic vinaigrette, just balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and honey. Some versions add herbs or citrus zest for extra zing.
How many calories in watermelon feta balsamic salad?
One standard serving of watermelon feta balsamic salad contains about 165 calories, depending on ingredient portions and dressing quantity.
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