Variation
Add a handful of toasted pine nuts for a nutty crunch.
Cool down with this Watermelon Feta Salad with Hot Honey and Mint. This vibrant dish balances sweet fruit, salty cheese, and a fiery kick.

Get these tasks done before you start cooking.
Chill the watermelon for at least 4 hours before cutting for maximum refreshing effect.
Soak red onion slices in ice water for 10 minutes to remove the harsh raw bite.
Total time: 15 min · Yields 6 servings
Cut the watermelon into uniform 1 inch cubes and place them in a large, shallow serving bowl. Drain the red onions from their ice water soak and pat them dry with a paper towel before adding to the bowl.
In a small glass jar or bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, hot honey, lime juice, and black pepper until the honey is fully incorporated into the oil.
Add the cucumber if using. Pour half of the dressing over the watermelon and onions. Gently toss with your hands or a large spoon, being careful not to bruise the fruit.
Scatter the crumbled feta cheese and the torn mint leaves over the top. Tearing the mint rather than chopping keeps the edges from turning black and releases more essential oils.
Drizzle the remaining dressing over the feta. Finish with a generous sprinkle of flaky sea salt to help the watermelon release its natural sweetness.
The garlic butter sauce is the star — pick sides that soak it up or balance the richness.
Once you've mastered the base recipe, try these popular twists.
Add a handful of toasted pine nuts for a nutty crunch.
Swap mint for fresh basil if you prefer a more savory, herbal profile.
Add sliced jalapeños for a double dose of heat alongside the hot honey.
This salad is best enjoyed immediately. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Note that the watermelon will release juice over time, creating a soup-like consistency at the bottom.
You can prep the ingredients separately, but do not combine them with the dressing or salt until right before serving. Salt draws out moisture from watermelon, making it soggy if left to sit.
You can make a quick substitute by warming 2 tablespoons of regular honey with 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Sheep's milk feta (labeled as Greek Feta) is best because its creamy, tangy profile balances the sweet melon better than cow's milk varieties.
Absolutely. It works just as well and can be mixed with red watermelon for a beautiful visual contrast.
Look for a heavy melon with a creamy yellow 'field spot' on the bottom. When tapped, it should sound hollow and deep.






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