Description

Craving a refreshing, vibrant dish that screams summer? What if you could toss together a Peach Watermelon Salad in just 15 minutes, blending juicy watermelon, sweet peaches, and zesty lime for a burst of flavor? This light, no-cook recipe combines fresh fruits with mint and optional feta, cucumber, or red onion for a customizable, hydrating salad perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a quick side dish. Beginner-friendly and effortlessly delicious, this salad brings a colorful, healthy touch to any meal.

Ingredients

The magic of Peach Watermelon Salad lies in its fresh, minimal ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

For the Salad

Watermelon (3 cups, cubed): Juicy, sweet base that adds hydration and crunch.
Ripe Peaches (2, sliced): Provide soft, sweet-tart flavor and vibrant color.
Fresh Mint Leaves (¼ cup, chopped): Add a refreshing, aromatic lift.
Lime Juice (1 tbsp): Brings zesty brightness to balance sweetness.
Sea Salt (¼ tsp): Enhances fruit flavors and adds a subtle savory note.

Optional Additions

Crumbled Feta Cheese (¼ cup): Offers creamy, tangy contrast.
Red Onion (¼ cup, thinly sliced): Adds sharp, savory bite.
Cucumber (½, sliced): Provides crisp, cooling texture.

Substitutions and Variations

Watermelon: Swap with cantaloupe or honeydew for a different melon flavor.
Peaches: Use nectarines, apricots, or mango for similar sweetness; canned peaches (drained) work in a pinch.
Mint: Replace with fresh basil or cilantro for a different herbal note.
Lime Juice: Substitute with lemon juice or orange juice for varied citrus flavor.
Sea Salt: Use kosher salt or omit for a sweeter profile.
Feta Cheese: Swap with goat cheese, queso fresco, or vegan feta for dietary needs.
Red Onion: Replace with scallions or omit for a milder taste.
Cucumber: Use jicama or celery for similar crunch.
Vegetarian/Vegan: Naturally vegetarian; use vegan feta or omit cheese for vegan.
Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; ensure feta is gluten-free certified.

Optional Additions

Berries: Add ½ cup blueberries or strawberries for extra color and sweetness.
Nuts: Sprinkle 2 tbsp toasted almonds or pistachios for crunch.
Dressing: Drizzle 1 tsp honey or agave for added sweetness.

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Instructions

Making Peach Watermelon Salad is a breeze with a simple prep and toss process. Follow these instructions for perfect results every time:

Prepare the Fruits:
- Cube 3 cups watermelon into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes) and place in a large bowl.
- Slice 2 ripe peaches into thin wedges or bite-sized chunks, removing the pit, and add to the bowl.
- Tip: Choose ripe, fragrant peaches that yield slightly to pressure; use a sharp knife to cube watermelon evenly.
Add the Mint:
- Chop ¼ cup fresh mint leaves finely and sprinkle over the watermelon and peaches.
- Gently toss to distribute the mint evenly.
- Tip: Chop mint just before adding to preserve freshness; toss lightly to avoid bruising fruit.
Dress the Salad:
- Drizzle 1 tbsp lime juice over the salad and sprinkle with ¼ tsp sea salt.
- Toss gently to coat the fruit evenly.
- Tip: Squeeze fresh lime juice for the best flavor; adjust salt to taste, starting with a pinch.
Incorporate Optional Ingredients:
- If using, add ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese, ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion, and/or ½ sliced cucumber.
- Toss gently to combine, ensuring even distribution without crushing the fruit.
- Tip: Slice cucumber and onion thinly for better texture; crumble feta finely for even coverage.
Chill and Serve:
- Cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for 5–10 minutes to enhance flavors and coolness.
- Serve chilled in bowls or on a platter, garnished with extra mint leaves or a drizzle of honey if desired.
- Pair with grilled meats, seafood, or a summer barbecue for a complete meal.
- Tip: Don’t chill longer than 30 minutes to avoid excess juice release; serve immediately after chilling for best texture.