Name: Peach Watermelon Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 ripe peaches, thinly sliced; 3 cups watermelon, cubed; ½ red onion, thinly sliced; ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled; ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped; Juice of 1 lime; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp honey; Salt and pepper to taste

There’s just something magical about biting into juicy, sun-ripened fruit on a warm day. It’s like sunshine on your plate—and this Peach Watermelon Salad captures exactly that feeling. This recipe is everything summer should be: vibrant, fresh, sweet, and completely effortless. Whether you’re lounging in the backyard, planning a picnic, or hosting a barbecue, this salad is the answer to the question, “What refreshing dish can I serve that everyone will love?”

The first time I made this Peach Watermelon Salad, it was a hot afternoon in July. I had some extra peaches on hand, a leftover wedge of watermelon from the weekend, and a little crumbled feta sitting in the fridge. With a quick toss of mint, lime juice, and honey, I stumbled into what has become one of my favorite summer dishes. The combination is surprisingly elegant for something so simple—sweet, salty, juicy, and just a bit tangy, with the mint tying everything together like a ribbon on a gift.

It’s now a staple in our house during peach and watermelon season. We’ve served it at cookouts, taken it to potlucks, and even packed it in picnic baskets. It’s always a hit. The best part? You don’t need any fancy tools, and the whole thing comes together in under 20 minutes. It’s fresh, it’s flavorful, and it’s full of color and texture—just the kind of dish that makes people say, “Wow, what’s in this?”

Let’s dive into what makes this salad so special, and why you’ll want to make it again and again all summer long.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons this Peach Watermelon Salad deserves a spot in your regular rotation. First and foremost, it’s incredibly simple. No oven, no stove, and barely any chopping. Just fresh, vibrant ingredients tossed together with a zippy, naturally sweet dressing. That’s it.

But beyond the ease, the flavors are what truly make this salad shine. You’ve got:

Sweetness from ripe, juicy peaches and watermelon
Creaminess and saltiness from crumbled feta cheese
Herbal freshness from chopped mint leaves
A bright zing from fresh lime juice
A subtle richness from olive oil and honey

Each bite is balanced and refreshing. The textures also play beautifully together—the crunch of watermelon, the soft flesh of peaches, the creamy feta, and the slight chew of mint.

It’s a great dish for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it’s super customizable. Want to make it vegan? Just skip the feta or use a plant-based alternative. Want more texture? Toss in some toasted nuts. Looking for a little spice? A few chili flakes go a long way.

And did I mention it’s gorgeous? The colors practically jump off the plate. This is the kind of dish that looks as good as it tastes.

Health Benefits

Beyond being delicious, this Peach Watermelon Salad is loaded with nutrients that your body will thank you for. It’s a great way to get in a few servings of fruit without feeling like you’re eating a boring fruit bowl.

Watermelon is incredibly hydrating—over 90% water—and it’s rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to heart health and reduced inflammation.
Peaches offer a good dose of vitamin C and fiber, which supports healthy digestion and boosts your immune system.
Mint not only adds flavor but also supports digestion and can help relieve indigestion and bloating.
Feta cheese, while used in moderation here, adds a little protein and calcium to the mix.
Olive oil provides healthy fats that help with nutrient absorption.
Lime juice and honey round things out with vitamin C and antioxidants.

All in all, this salad is a refreshing, nutrient-packed way to beat the heat and treat your body well.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 180
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 2g

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this salad:

2 ripe peaches, sliced thinly (no need to peel)
3 cups seedless watermelon, cubed into bite-sized pieces
½ small red onion, very thinly sliced
½ cup crumbled feta cheese (or more to taste)
¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Ingredient Highlights:

Peaches: Look for ones that are fragrant and slightly soft to the touch. They bring natural sweetness and a lovely soft texture.
Watermelon: Choose a ripe, seedless variety with a deep red color and a hollow sound when tapped. It adds crunch and hydration.
Feta: Brings a salty contrast that balances the sweetness of the fruit beautifully.
Mint: Fresh is best! It elevates the salad with a clean, cool flavor.
Lime juice: Adds acidity and brightness.
Honey: Just a touch enhances the sweetness without overpowering it.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Prep the fruit and veggies
Start by washing the peaches and mint. Slice the peaches into thin wedges. Cube the watermelon into 1-inch chunks. Thinly slice the red onion and chop the mint leaves.
Make the dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Taste and adjust for acidity or sweetness, depending on your preference.
Assemble the salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the peach slices, watermelon cubes, red onion, and chopped mint.
Add feta
Gently fold in the crumbled feta, trying not to break it up too much. You want little pockets of salty goodness throughout.
Dress the salad
Pour the lime-honey dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Take care not to overmix, as the fruit is delicate.
Chill (optional but recommended)
For best flavor, cover and refrigerate the salad for about 20–30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to cool down for peak refreshment.
Serve and enjoy
Serve cold, with a few extra mint leaves or a sprinkle of feta on top for garnish.

How to Serve

This salad is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy it:

On its own as a light lunch or healthy snack
As a side dish for grilled chicken, kebabs, or turkey burgers
Tucked into lettuce cups for a fun handheld appetizer
On a brunch table alongside quiche or savory muffins

Pairing Suggestions

While this salad stands beautifully on its own, it’s also great paired with:

Grilled meats like lemon herb chicken, beef kebabs, or lamb kofta
Fresh flatbread or pita chips for scooping
Herbed rice or couscous salad to round out a Mediterranean-style meal
Chilled sparkling water with lime or a mocktail made with mint and citrus

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storage:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The watermelon may release more liquid over time, so give the salad a gentle stir before serving again.

Freezing:
Freezing is not recommended, as the fresh fruit and herbs will lose their texture and become mushy when thawed.

Reheating:
Since this is a cold salad, reheating is not necessary. Simply enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using underripe fruit: This can make the salad bland. Always choose peaches and watermelon at their peak ripeness.
Skipping the chill time: Letting the salad rest in the fridge allows the flavors to marry and makes it extra refreshing.
Overdressing: Too much dressing can overwhelm the delicate fruit. Start with less and add more as needed.
Overmixing: Toss gently to keep the fruit from getting mushy.
Forgetting to taste and season: A pinch of salt can make the sweet flavors pop.

Pro Tips

Use a sharp knife for slicing peaches to keep them from tearing.
If your red onion is too strong, soak the slices in cold water for 5–10 minutes before adding to the salad.
Pre-chill your serving bowl to keep the salad extra cold when serving outdoors.
For a nutty crunch, add toasted almonds or pistachios just before serving.
Make the dressing in advance—it keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just store it covered in the fridge and toss again before serving.

Can I use frozen fruit?
Fresh fruit is best for texture, but in a pinch, you can use thawed peaches. Avoid frozen watermelon as it tends to get mushy.

What’s a good vegan cheese alternative?
Crumble a vegan feta-style cheese or use firm tofu marinated in lemon juice and salt.

Can I use herbs other than mint?
Absolutely. Basil or cilantro are great substitutes and offer a different twist.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! Kids usually love the sweet fruit, and you can easily leave out the onion or feta if needed.

How do I keep the salad from getting watery?
Drain the watermelon well and avoid overmixing. You can also add the dressing just before serving.

Can I add other ingredients to bulk it up?
Yes, try adding cucumber slices, avocado chunks, or arugula for extra volume.

Is it gluten-free?
It is! This salad is naturally gluten-free and full of whole, unprocessed ingredients.

How long does the salad last?
It’s best enjoyed the same day, but it will keep in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Can I use white peaches or nectarines?
Definitely. Either will work beautifully and add their own subtle twist.

Conclusion & Call to Action

If you’re looking for a dish that screams summer in the best way, this Peach Watermelon Salad is it. It’s fresh, fast, and full of flavor—and best of all, you can toss it together with zero fuss. Whether you’re serving it at a weekend BBQ, packing it up for a beach picnic, or just treating yourself to something special on a hot afternoon, this salad delivers.

Try it once, and I have a feeling it’ll become a regular in your warm-weather rotation. When you do make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Leave a comment below or tag me on social media with your photos. Seeing your versions is one of my favorite parts of sharing these recipes.

Now go grab some peaches and watermelon—your new favorite summer salad is waiting.