- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Cost per Serving: $2.00
- Calories per Serving: 150 kcal
The inspiration for this Watermelon Salad with Balsamic Glaze came on a hot summer day when I was craving something light, juicy, and packed with flavor. I wanted that perfect balance of sweet, salty, tangy, and fresh, and that’s exactly what this salad delivers.
The sweetness of ripe watermelon pairs beautifully with the richness of balsamic glaze, while crumbled feta adds a creamy, salty contrast. A handful of fresh mint ties it all together, making every bite crisp and refreshing.
This salad is not just for summer—it’s a year-round favorite that’s quick to prepare, naturally low in carbs, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve it as a side dish, appetizer, or even a light lunch, it’s sure to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Watermelon Salad with Balsamic Glaze
The ultimate summer refresher – Watermelon is sweet, hydrating, and incredibly refreshing, making this salad the perfect dish for hot days. Every bite feels like a cool breeze.
A perfect balance of flavors – This salad hits every taste note—sweet watermelon, tangy balsamic glaze, salty feta, and fresh, cooling mint. It’s the kind of combination that keeps you coming back for just one more bite.
Simple yet elegant – With just a handful of ingredients, this dish comes together in minutes, but looks (and tastes) like something you’d order at a fancy café. Serve it at a BBQ or dinner party, and watch it disappear.
Naturally healthy and low-carb – Unlike fruit salads loaded with sugar, this one keeps things light, fresh, and keto-friendly, without sacrificing flavor.
Versatile for any occasion – Need a quick side for grilled meats? A refreshing appetizer? A light lunch? This salad does it all, effortlessly fitting into any meal.
How to make this Watermelon Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Ingredients
The exact ingredient measurements are listed in the recipe card below!
Watermelon – Juicy, sweet, and hydrating, watermelon is the heart of this salad. Go for a ripe, seedless variety for the best texture and natural sweetness. If you’re unsure, look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a creamy yellow spot where it rested on the ground—this means it’s perfectly ripe.
Feta Cheese – Salty, crumbly, and slightly tangy, feta is the ideal contrast to the sweetness of the watermelon. If you prefer something creamier, goat cheese or mozzarella are great swaps. Just be sure to crumble or tear it gently over the salad for the best distribution.
Fresh Mint – Cooling and herbaceous, fresh mint makes this dish incredibly refreshing. If you want to switch things up, basil adds a more peppery note that pairs just as well with watermelon.
Balsamic Glaze – Thick, rich, and slightly sweet, balsamic glaze ties everything together with its deep, tangy flavor. You can find it ready-made, or make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar until syrupy.
Olive Oil – A drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the natural flavors of the fruit and cheese. It may seem like a small addition, but don’t skip it—it rounds out the dish beautifully.
Salt & Black Pepper – Just a pinch is all you need. Flaky sea salt enhances the sweetness of the watermelon, while freshly cracked black pepper adds a subtle warmth that keeps each bite interesting.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Watermelon
Start by cutting the watermelon into bite-sized cubes. If you’re feeling fancy, use a melon baller for perfectly round pieces. Transfer them to a large serving bowl or platter, spreading them out for even distribution.
2. Add the Feta and Mint
Crumble the feta cheese over the watermelon, letting it fall naturally into the gaps. No need to be precise—those little pockets of salty cheese make every bite better. Now, scatter fresh mint leaves on top. If you love a bold mint flavor, leave the leaves whole. Prefer something more subtle? Roughly chop them before adding.
3. Drizzle and Season
Measure out one tablespoon of olive oil and drizzle it over the salad. Next, grab the balsamic glaze and do the same, letting it streak across the watermelon and feta. Don’t overdo it—a little goes a long way. Finish with a light sprinkle of salt and freshly cracked black pepper to bring out all the flavors.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Give the salad a gentle toss if you want everything evenly coated, or leave it layered for a more dramatic presentation. Serve immediately, or chill for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors meld. If you want an extra crunch, toss in some toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds right before serving.
Watermelon Salad with Balsamic Glaze Pro Tips
Choose the right watermelon – A ripe, juicy watermelon makes all the difference. Look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a creamy yellow spot—that means it’s been ripening in the sun and will be perfectly sweet.
Keep the mint fresh – Mint can wilt quickly once chopped. Add it just before serving to keep it bright and fragrant. If you’re prepping ahead, store the mint separately and toss it in at the last minute.
Balance the balsamic – A little balsamic glaze goes a long way. Start with a light drizzle, then add more if needed. Too much can overpower the delicate sweetness of the watermelon.
Upgrade with texture – For extra crunch, sprinkle in toasted almonds, pistachios, or pumpkin seeds just before serving. They add a satisfying bite and take this salad to the next level.
Make it ahead (but not too far ahead) – You can cube the watermelon and crumble the feta a few hours in advance, but wait to add the mint, balsamic glaze, and seasoning until just before serving. This keeps everything fresh and flavorful.
Perfect Pairings for Watermelon Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Grilled Meats – This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp. The sweet and tangy flavors cut through the richness of smoky, charred meats.
Crusty Bread or Pita Chips – Scoop up the watermelon, feta, and balsamic glaze with toasted bread or crispy pita chips for an irresistible bite.
Chilled White Wine or Sparkling Water – A crisp Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or sparkling water with lime makes the perfect refreshing drink to complement the salad.
Mediterranean-Inspired Dishes – Serve this alongside hummus, tzatziki, or a Greek mezze platter for a light, flavorful spread.
Tacos with a Twist – Spoon this salad over grilled fish or shrimp tacos for an unexpected burst of juicy, fresh flavor.
Try this refreshing watermelon salad alongside our Chorizo Tacos, Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites, or Smoked Ribeye Steak for a perfectly balanced meal full of bold flavors!
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Sharp Chef’s Knife – A good sharp knife makes cutting watermelon quick and easy. A dull knife will crush the fruit instead of slicing cleanly, so make sure yours is up to the task.
- Melon Baller (Optional but Fun!) – If you want to get fancy, a melon baller creates perfectly round watermelon pieces, giving your salad a more elegant, restaurant-style presentation.
FAQ about Watermelon Salad with Balsamic Glaze
🔹 Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but for the best texture, cut the watermelon and crumble the feta a few hours in advance. Wait until just before serving to add the mint, balsamic glaze, and seasoning to keep everything fresh.
🔹 How do I store leftovers?
Watermelon releases a lot of juice, so this salad is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. Drain any excess liquid before serving again.
🔹 Can I use balsamic vinegar instead of glaze?
Absolutely. If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar over low heat until it thickens. If using straight balsamic vinegar, drizzle lightly so it doesn’t overpower the watermelon.
🔹 What can I add for more crunch?
Try toasted almonds, pistachios, pumpkin seeds, or even crispy prosciutto for extra texture and flavor.
🔹 Can I swap out the feta?
Yes! Goat cheese, mozzarella, or blue cheese all work well. Goat cheese adds creaminess, mozzarella is milder, and blue cheese gives a stronger, bolder contrast.
Watermelon Salad with Balsamic Glaze
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Watermelon Salad with Balsamic Glaze is the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Juicy watermelon, creamy feta, and fresh mint are drizzled with a rich balsamic reduction, creating a salad that is light, refreshing, and packed with flavor. It’s quick to make, naturally low-carb and gluten-free, and ideal for summer gatherings or a simple, elegant side dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
4 cups watermelon, cubed – Use ripe, seedless watermelon for the best flavor.
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled – Adds a creamy, salty contrast.
¼ cup fresh mint leaves – Provides a cooling, herbal freshness.
For the Dressing:
2 tbsp balsamic glaze – Thick and slightly sweet, balancing the watermelon’s natural sugars.
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil – Enhances the richness and flavors of the salad.
¼ tsp sea salt – Just a pinch brings out the sweetness of the watermelon.
⅛ tsp black pepper – Adds a slight warmth to the dish.
Instructions
1. Prep the Watermelon
Cut the watermelon into bite-sized cubes and place them in a large serving bowl or on a platter. If you prefer a fancier look, use a melon baller for round pieces.
2. Add the Feta and Mint
Crumble feta cheese over the watermelon, letting it fall into the spaces between the cubes. Scatter fresh mint leaves on top, either whole or roughly chopped for a milder flavor.
3. Drizzle and Season
Drizzle olive oil evenly over the salad, followed by the balsamic glaze. Start with a light drizzle and add more to taste. Finish with sea salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately, or chill for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors meld. For added crunch, sprinkle with toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds just before serving.
Notes
- Make ahead tip: Cube the watermelon and crumble the feta a few hours in advance, but wait to add the mint and balsamic glaze until just before serving.
- Balsamic glaze alternative: If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can reduce balsamic vinegar by simmering it on low heat until thickened.
- Customization: Swap mint for basil, feta for goat cheese, or add toasted nuts for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, American
Nutrition
- Calories: 150kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: watermelon salad, balsamic glaze salad, summer salad, keto watermelon salad, feta watermelon salad, easy salad recipe, low-carb salad
This Watermelon Salad with Balsamic Glaze is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory, making it a must-try for warm-weather meals. With just a few fresh ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s an effortless way to add a refreshing touch to any table.
Whether you serve it as a light appetizer, a side for grilled meats, or a quick summer snack, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it alongside our Chorizo Tacos, Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites, or Smoked Ribeye Steak for the ultimate flavor pairing!
Give this recipe a try and let us know how you liked it—leave a comment below or share your creation with us!
So good
yum!