This Watermelon Goat Cheese Salad is the definition of summer in a bowl! Bursting with juicy watermelon, creamy goat cheese, crunchy pistachios, and bright mint, all tossed in a tangy lime-honey dressing, it’s the kind of salad you’ll crave on a hot day—and want to share with everyone you know.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Vibrant, Contrasting Flavors: Every bite offers a burst of sweet watermelon, tart lime, tangy goat cheese, and salty pistachio magic.
- Quick & Easy: You can whip up this show-stopper salad in just 15 minutes—no cooking required!
- Showcase Summer’s Best: This salad turns simple, fresh ingredients into the ultimate centerpiece for any picnic, BBQ, or gathering.
- Endlessly Customizable: Swap out nuts, herbs, or veggies to make it your own every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of colorful, fresh ingredients, this Watermelon Goat Cheese Salad delivers huge flavor and texture. Each component adds a bit of magic—here’s how every ingredient shines in this irresistible salad:
- Seedless Watermelon: The star! Make sure it’s cold and sweet for the most refreshing flavor—choose seedless for easy eating and beautiful cubes.
- Fresh Goat Cheese (Chèvre): Adds creamy, tangy richness that’s the perfect match for watermelon’s juicy sweetness.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced for just the right sharp, savory bite without overpowering the salad.
- Shelled Pistachios (or Other Nuts): Bring irresistible crunch and a toasty flavor—pistachios are lively and colorful, but feel free to swap for almonds or walnuts if you prefer.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Brings everything together with a silky, fruity base for the dressing.
- Lime Juice & Zest: The bright acidity and fragrant zest take the whole salad from good to unforgettable.
- Fresh Mint Leaves: Add a pop of herbal freshness and jewel-like color—slice them into ribbons for gorgeous presentation.
- Honey: Just a touch, for a subtle sweetness that ties together the goat cheese and lime.
- Kosher Salt: Enhances every flavor and balances the sweetness—make sure to adjust if using a different brand (see note below).
Variations
One of the reasons I adore Watermelon Goat Cheese Salad is how easy it is to remix based on your cravings, allergies, or what’s simply lingering in your fridge. Here are some of my favorite twists and swaps to make this salad truly your own:
- Swap the Herbs: Try fresh basil or cilantro in place of mint for a new layer of flavor that keeps things exciting.
- Change Up the Cheese: Use feta, ricotta salata, or even vegan cheese to fit your preferences or dietary needs.
- Add Extra Crunch: Slip in some sliced cucumber or radishes for more texture and a peppery kick.
- Make It Vegan: Replace the goat cheese with a plant-based alternative and swap honey for agave or maple syrup.
How to Make Watermelon Goat Cheese Salad
Step 1: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lime juice, lime zest, a drizzle of honey, and a sprinkle of kosher salt. Whisk until the mixture is creamy and well-blended—the honey should dissolve, making the dressing bright and silky. Set this aside so it’s ready to drizzle over your finished masterpiece.
Step 2: Prep Your Toppings
Next, thinly slice your red onion for a gentle bite and chop your pistachios for a lovely crunch. Gather your mint leaves and roll them into a tight bundle, then slice across with a sharp knife to create those picture-perfect ribbons. Prepping the toppings ahead makes assembling the salad a total breeze.
Step 3: Cut and Arrange the Watermelon
Trim the rind off your chilled watermelon and cut the juicy flesh into chunky 1-inch cubes. Arrange the watermelon cubes over a large platter—spreading them out a little makes sure every bite gets plenty of toppings!
Step 4: Layer and Finish the Salad
Sprinkle the thin onion slices and chopped pistachios evenly over the watermelon. Crumble the creamy goat cheese on top, letting it fall in soft clouds between the melon cubes. Give your dressing one more quick whisk, then drizzle it generously across the whole platter. Finally, shower the salad with those mint ribbons for a show-stopping finish. Serve immediately and watch it disappear!
Pro Tips for Making Watermelon Goat Cheese Salad
- Chill Your Watermelon: The colder your watermelon, the more refreshing every bite—refrigerate the whole melon before cutting if you have time!
- Slice Onions Ultra-Thin: Thinner onion slices meld beautifully into the salad, giving a hint of sharpness without overpowering the gentle flavors.
- Layer, Don’t Toss: For eye-catching presentation (and to keep the goat cheese dreamy and soft), assemble the salad by layering rather than tossing everything together.
- Salt Matters: If you’re using a salt other than Diamond Crystal Kosher, use less and adjust to taste—over-salting can overpower the sweet melon.
How to Serve Watermelon Goat Cheese Salad
Garnishes
Make this Watermelon Goat Cheese Salad even more stunning with extra fresh mint or basil leaves scattered on top. A final pinch of flaky sea salt or an extra drizzle of honey will dial up the flavors beautifully—don’t be afraid to play with an extra dusting of lime zest for citrusy sparkle!
Side Dishes
This salad shines alongside grilled meats like chicken or lamb, a simple roast salmon, or as a refreshing counterpoint to spicy barbecue dishes. Pair with crisp flatbreads, tangy yogurt dips, or other bright salads to create a vibrant summer spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For maximum wow-factor, build this Watermelon Goat Cheese Salad as an elegant composed platter. Or, spoon mini versions into individual jars or glasses for easy grab-and-go party bites. If you’re serving a crowd, arrange the ingredients in colorful stripes—kids and adults alike can’t resist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store your Watermelon Goat Cheese Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best texture, keep the goat cheese and nuts separate and add them right before serving to keep everything fresh.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh—the texture of watermelon and goat cheese changes dramatically when frozen and thawed. Freezing isn’t recommended, as it can make the salad watery and less vibrant.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t necessary for Watermelon Goat Cheese Salad; it’s designed to be served cold. Simply give the leftovers a toss, refresh with a little extra mint or dressing, and enjoy straight from the fridge.
FAQs
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Can I use feta instead of goat cheese?
Absolutely! Feta brings a similar tangy note and crumbles beautifully into the watermelon, but goat cheese lends a uniquely creamy mouthfeel. Both are delicious, so use whichever you prefer or have on hand.
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Is this salad good for making ahead?
You can prep most of the Watermelon Goat Cheese Salad ingredients ahead—cube the watermelon, slice the onions, chop nuts, and whisk the dressing. Assemble just before serving to keep everything crisp and vibrant.
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What can I use instead of pistachios?
Try roasted almonds, walnuts, pecans, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Each brings a slightly different crunch and flavor profile to the Watermelon Goat Cheese Salad.
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How do I choose a ripe watermelon for this salad?
Look for a watermelon with a creamy yellow spot (where it sat on the ground), a uniform shape, and a deep, hollow sound when tapped. Chilling the melon before cutting makes the Watermelon Goat Cheese Salad extra satisfying and delicious!
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to give your summer table a wake-up call, this Watermelon Goat Cheese Salad truly delivers. I hope it becomes one of those simple, vibrant dishes you look forward to year after year—don’t be surprised if it vanishes in minutes. Treat yourself, share it, and let me know how your own version turns out!
Print
Watermelon Goat Cheese Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Watermelon Goat Cheese Salad is a refreshing and flavorful summer dish that combines the sweetness of watermelon with the tanginess of goat cheese, crunchy nuts, and a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a barbecue.
Ingredients
Watermelon:
- 2 pounds (907 g) cold seedless watermelon, about 6 cups cubes
Salad:
- 6 ounces (170 g) fresh goat cheese (chèvre)
- 1/2 cup (57 g) thinly-sliced red onion
- 1/3 cup (52 g) shelled pistachios (or other nut)
- 2 tablespoons thinly-sliced mint leaves (about 7 mint leaves)
Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon finely-grated lime zest
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Dressing: Add the extra-virgin olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, honey, and kosher salt to a small bowl. Whisk to combine the ingredients. Set aside.
- Prepare Ingredients: Thinly slice the red onion, chop the nuts, and slice the mint. Set aside.
- Assemble Salad: Cut the watermelon into cubes and arrange them on a platter. Sprinkle onion and nuts over the watermelon. Crumble goat cheese on top.
- Finish and Serve: Whisk the dressing again and drizzle over the salad. Garnish with sliced mint. Serve immediately.
Notes
- The salad tastes best with chilled watermelon.
- If using a different type of salt, adjust the amount accordingly.
- The salad can be assembled in a bowl if preferred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
