This Refreshing Peach Watermelon Salad is a colorful treat that’s perfect for warm days! Juicy peaches and sweet watermelon are combined for a bright and tasty dish.
It’s super easy to make—just chop and toss! I love adding a splash of lime juice to give it a little zing. Trust me, you’ll be coming back for seconds! 🍑🍉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Use seedless watermelon for ease, but if you only have a seeded variety, just remove the seeds as you dice. Look for a ripe, sweet watermelon that feels heavy for its size and has a uniform color. It’s what makes this salad juicy and refreshing.
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are best here. If peaches aren’t in season, you can substitute with nectarines for a similar sweet flavor. Canned peaches can work too—just be sure to drain them well!
Fresh Mint: Mint adds a nice fresh touch. If you don’t have mint, you could use basil for a different but delightful flavor. Dried mint in a pinch can work, but use it sparingly.
Red Onion: The red onion adds a nice bite, but it’s totally optional! If you’re looking for a milder flavor, try using green onions or even leaving it out.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a great savory contrast, but if you’re looking for something lighter, go for crumbled goat cheese. Alternatively, omit the cheese for a vegan-friendly dish!
How Do You Keep the Salad Fresh and Flavored?
To ensure your salad stays fresh and flavorful, follow these simple tips:
- Always chill the salad for about 15-20 minutes after mixing. This lets the flavors combine beautifully.
- Pour the dressing just before serving to prevent the watermelon from getting too mushy.
- For storage, keep the salad in an airtight container in the fridge, but it’s best enjoyed within a day to maintain freshness.
Refreshing Peach Watermelon Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fruits:
- 3 cups watermelon, diced (seedless if possible)
- 2 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced
Herbs & Spices:
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional, for a mild kick)
Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 lime, juiced
- Pinch of salt
Optional Add-In:
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (for a savory contrast)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 15-20 minutes to chill in the fridge. You’ll spend just a few moments chopping and mixing the ingredients, making it a quick and delightful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Main Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the diced watermelon and sliced peaches. These sweet fruits will be the stars of your salad!
2. Add the Fresh Flavors:
Next, stir in the chopped fresh mint leaves. If you like a bit of zing, add the thinly sliced red onion as well—it’s optional but gives it a nice kick!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey (or agave), and a pinch of salt until smooth. This dressing will brighten up the salad beautifully.
4. Toss Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the fruit mixture and gently toss everything together so the fruits are well-coated. Be careful not to mash the fruit!
5. Add the Feta (If Using):
If you want to include the feta cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the salad at this point for added flavor and texture.
6. Chill and Serve:
Now, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to let those flavors meld together. Serve the salad cold for a refreshing treat!
Enjoy your cool and vibrant Refreshing Peach Watermelon Salad! 🍑🍉
FAQ for Refreshing Peach Watermelon Salad
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! This salad is very versatile. You can add fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or even kiwi for a different flavor profile. Just keep the balance of sweetness in mind!
How to Store Leftovers?
The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. However, the watermelon may release juice and soften, so it’s ideal to eat it sooner rather than later!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the watermelon and peach mixture a few hours in advance! Just wait to add the dressing and mint until you’re ready to serve to keep it fresh and crisp.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, crumbled goat cheese or even a dairy-free feta would work well. For a lighter version, you can simply omit the cheese altogether!