Summer is the season for BBQs, and nothing is quite as refreshing as a watermelon salad! These vibrant and juicy salads not only taste amazing but are also super easy to whip up, making them the perfect addition to any outdoor gathering.

From sweet combinations to savory twists, watermelon salads can cater to every palate. Whether you’re looking for something light, healthy, or just downright delicious, we’ve got you covered.

Get ready to impress your friends and family with these 15 mouth-watering watermelon salad ideas that will have everyone going back for seconds! You’ll find unique combinations that are easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

1. Classic Watermelon Feta Salad

You can’t go wrong with the classic combination of watermelon and feta! The sweet, juicy watermelon pairs perfectly with the salty, creamy feta cheese. Toss in some fresh mint for a burst of flavor and color. Using a watermelon slicer makes cutting your fruit into perfect cubes or slices quick and mess-free, which is especially helpful when preparing for a BBQ.

Ingredients:
– 4 cups watermelon, cubed
– 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine watermelon and feta cheese. The mixing bowls set is perfect for prepping and mixing ingredients, ensuring everything is ready for serving.
2. Gently fold in the chopped mint.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve chilled for the best flavor!

This salad is a showstopper at any BBQ and takes just minutes to prepare!

2. Spicy Watermelon Salsa

Kick your BBQ up a notch with a spicy watermelon salsa! This zesty mix brings a refreshing twist to your favorite tortilla chips or grilled meats. To get started, you’ll want to ensure you have the right tools in your kitchen. A good chef’s knife is essential for perfectly dicing your watermelon, while a sturdy cutting board set provides a safe and efficient workspace for all your chopping needs.

Here’s how to prepare this flavorful salsa:

Ingredients:
– 2 cups watermelon, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and minced
– 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime

Instructions:
1. Mix watermelon, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro in a bowl. A mixing bowl set is perfect for this, as it allows you to choose the right size for your needs.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and stir.
3. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to meld flavors.

This salsa is not just pretty; it’s packed with flavor and sure to bring smiles all around! Enjoy your BBQ with this refreshing addition, knowing you’ve got all the right tools to make it hassle-free.

3. Watermelon and Arugula Salad

This watermelon and arugula salad is the perfect combination of sweet and peppery! The peppery arugula enhances the sweetness of the watermelon while adding a delightful crunch.

For this refreshing dish, start with 3 cups of arugula and 2 cups of cubed watermelon. To elevate the flavor, sprinkle in 1/2 cup of goat cheese crumbles, which add a creamy texture that complements the crispness of the greens and the juiciness of the watermelon. Finally, drizzle with balsamic glaze for a rich and tangy finish, and season with a pinch of salt to taste.

Instructions:
1. Toss arugula and watermelon in a large bowl.
2. Sprinkle goat cheese on top.
3. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and season with a pinch of salt.

Light and refreshing, this salad is a great way to keep things healthy and tasty!

4. Watermelon Berry Salad

### 4. Watermelon Berry Salad

Bring on the summer vibes with a watermelon berry salad! This colorful mix is not only vibrant but packed with antioxidants and nutrients.

**Ingredients:**
– 3 cups watermelon, cubed
– 1 cup strawberries, sliced
– 1 cup blueberries
– 1/4 cup fresh mint
– Juice of 1 lemon

**Instructions:**
1. In a large bowl, combine watermelon, strawberries, and blueberries.
2. Add mint leaves and lemon juice, then gently toss to combine.

To make preparation easier, consider using an OXO Good Grips salad spinner to wash your fruits thoroughly and keep them crispy. Chopping your watermelon and berries will be a breeze with a durable cutting board set that features juice grooves to catch any liquid, ensuring your workspace stays clean. Finally, a sharp fruit knife set will help you slice through the watermelon and strawberries with ease.

This salad is perfect for a sunny day and a healthy treat that’s easy to prepare!

5. Watermelon and Cucumber Salad

Cool off with a refreshing watermelon and cucumber salad! The crispness of cucumbers complements the juicy sweetness of watermelon, making it wonderfully hydrating. To make your prep easier, consider using an OXO Good Grips salad spinner to wash and dry your greens and fruits, ensuring your salad stays light and crisp.

**Ingredients:**
– 3 cups watermelon, diced
– 2 cups cucumber, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**
1. Mix watermelon, cucumber, and red onion in a bowl.
2. Drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
3. Chill before serving for a refreshing bite.

Using a durable cutting board like the GORILLA GRIP cutting board set will also make your chopping tasks easier and keep your kitchen tidy with its juice grooves designed to catch any excess liquid. This salad is especially great for those hot summer days when you need something light and easy!

6. Grilled Watermelon Salad

Grilling watermelon takes its flavor to another level! The caramelization enhances the sweetness while giving it a lovely smoky flavor. To make this delicious grilled watermelon salad, you’ll want to have a few key products on hand.

First, for the best results on the grill, consider using the Weber deluxe grilling basket. This handy tool makes it easy to grill thick slices of watermelon without the risk of them falling through the grates.

Here’s what you’ll need for the salad:

– 4 cups watermelon, cut into thick slices
– 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– Fresh basil leaves
– balsamic vinegar to drizzle

Instructions:
1. Grill watermelon slices for about 3-4 minutes on each side until grill marks appear.
2. Remove from grill and let cool slightly.
3. Top with feta and basil, then drizzle with balsamic vinegar.

This unique salad will definitely wow your guests and make your BBQ unforgettable! The combination of grilled watermelon, creamy feta, and the rich sweetness of balsamic vinegar creates a delightful dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings.

7. Watermelon and Chickpea Salad

For a hearty twist, try a watermelon and chickpea salad! This protein-packed salad keeps you full while also being super refreshing. To make your preparation even easier, consider using some handy kitchen tools.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups watermelon, cubed
– 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:
1. Combine watermelon, chickpeas, cucumber, and red onion in a bowl. A great option for mixing is the mixing bowls set, which includes various sizes and a non-slip bottom for stability.
2. Drizzle with lime juice and toss gently to mix. For slicing the watermelon and cucumber, having a sharp and reliable tool like the chef’s knife will make the job quick and easy.
3. Garnish with cilantro before serving. If you want to ensure your greens are clean and crisp, use the salad spinner to wash and dry your ingredients efficiently.

This salad is filling yet light, making it an ideal option for a BBQ potluck!

8. Watermelon and Avocado Salad

Mix it up with a creamy and rich watermelon and avocado salad. The buttery avocado perfectly complements the fresh watermelon, making it a delightful treat. To prepare this easy salad, consider using an OXO Good Grips 3-in-1 avocado slicer for perfectly diced avocados, ensuring that each bite is just right.

**Ingredients:**
– 3 cups watermelon, cubed
– 2 avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**
1. Combine watermelon, avocado, and red onion in a bowl.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the top and season with salt and pepper.

To toss your salad with ease, a OXO Good Grips salad spinner can help wash and dry your greens and other vegetables quickly, making prep a breeze.

This vibrant salad is not just a feast for the taste buds; it’s also a feast for the eyes with its lovely colors, best served in a rustic Winco wooden woven salad bowl to enhance its presentation. Enjoy your refreshing creation at your next BBQ!

9. Watermelon and Quinoa Salad

Add some protein with a watermelon and quinoa salad! The nutty flavor of quinoa paired with sweet watermelon creates a delicious contrast. To make preparation easier, consider using Viva Naturals Organic Quinoa, which is pre-washed and ready to go, ensuring you get a wholesome, plant-based protein source in no time.

**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups watermelon, cubed
– 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
– 1/4 cup mint, chopped
– Juice of 1 lemon

**Instructions:**
1. In a bowl, combine cooked quinoa with watermelon and cucumber.
2. Add chopped mint and lemon juice, tossing gently.

For squeezing the juice from your lemon, a handy tool like the Zulay Kitchen Metal 2-in-1 Lemon Squeezer can help you extract every last drop with ease. This ensures you get that fresh, zesty flavor without any fuss.

This salad is filling enough to be a meal on its own, but also makes a great side dish at any BBQ! To serve it up beautifully, consider using a stylish serving option like the AIDEA Salad Bowls, Wooden Salad Bowls Set, which adds a rustic charm to your dining setup.

Enjoy your refreshing watermelon and quinoa salad at your next gathering!

10. Watermelon and Pineapple Salad

For a tropical twist, mix watermelon and pineapple! This refreshing salad is perfect for cooling down on hot summer days.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups watermelon, cubed
– 2 cups pineapple, cubed
– 1/4 cup coconut flakes
– Juice of 1 lime

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine watermelon and pineapple.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the top and sprinkle with coconut flakes.

To make this process even easier, consider using a watermelon slicer for perfectly cubed watermelon, which will save you time and help keep your prep mess-free. When it comes to squeezing that lime, a juicer for lime will maximize your juice extraction while ensuring you don’t waste a drop.

This salad is bursting with tropical flavors, making every bite feel like a mini-vacation!

11. Watermelon and Goat Cheese Salad

This watermelon and goat cheese salad balances creamy and sweet flavors in an irresistible way. The tangy goat cheese adds richness that pairs beautifully with the watermelon. For the perfect addition to your salad, consider using Whole Foods Market Goat Cheese Crumbles, which offer a convenient and flavorful option.

Ingredients:
– 3 cups watermelon, cubed
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup pistachios, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Fresh basil to garnish

Instructions:
1. Combine watermelon, goat cheese, and Wonderful Pistachios No Shells, Roasted & Salted Nuts in a bowl for an extra crunch and a boost of protein.
2. Drizzle with honey and top with fresh basil before serving.

For serving, you might want to present this visually appealing dish in a Winco WWB-10 Wooden Woven Salad Bowl, which adds a beautiful touch to your table setting. This salad is not only delicious but also looks stunning, making it perfect for impressing guests!

12. Watermelon and Smoked Salmon Salad

Elevate your BBQ with a gourmet touch by adding smoked salmon to your watermelon salad. The smoky flavor of smoked Atlantic salmon marries beautifully with the sweetness of the watermelon, creating a dish that’s both impressive and delicious.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups watermelon, diced
– 200g smoked salmon, sliced
– 1/4 cup whipped cream cheese, softened
– Fresh dill for garnish

Instructions:
1. Arrange watermelon cubes on a plate.
2. Top with slices of smoked salmon and dollops of cream cheese.
3. Garnish with fresh dill.

Using smoked salmon adds a rich, savory element to the sweet watermelon, while whipped cream cheese provides a creamy texture that complements the salad perfectly. Finally, a sprinkle of fresh dill enhances the dish with its aromatic freshness. This combination is sure to impress and delight your guests with a magnificent flavor experience!

13. Watermelon and Spinach Salad

For a nutrient-packed option, toss together a watermelon and spinach salad! Spinach is rich in vitamins, and when paired with watermelon, it creates a light and vibrant dish that’s perfect for summer.

Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh spinach
– 2 cups watermelon, cubed
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
– Olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dressing

Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix spinach and watermelon.
2. Add feta cheese and sunflower seeds.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar before serving. Using a quality olive oil dispenser makes it easy to control your drizzle, ensuring just the right amount for flavor. Plus, a good balsamic vinegar can elevate this simple salad into something special.

This salad is refreshing and colorful, making it a perfect addition to any summer BBQ! And, if you’re looking to wash your greens properly, consider an OXO Good Grips salad spinner. It helps to keep your spinach crisp and clean, enhancing the overall freshness of your dish.

14. Watermelon and Pomegranate Salad

The addition of pomegranate seeds gives this salad a lovely crunch and a pop of color! It’s a unique mix that enhances the sweetness of watermelon. To make the prep easier and mess-free, consider using a watermelon slicer to quickly cut your watermelon into perfect cubes, making assembly a breeze.

Ingredients:
– 3 cups watermelon, cubed
– 1 cup pomegranate seeds
– 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
– Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions:
1. Combine watermelon and pomegranate seeds in a bowl.
2. Add chopped mint and drizzle with lemon juice.

For removing those pesky pomegranate seeds, a reliable pomegranate seed remover can save you time and ensure you get every last aril without the mess. This salad is both visually appealing and packed with flavor, making it a perfect conversation starter at your BBQ!

15. Watermelon and Cilantro Salad

Finish off with a refreshing watermelon and cilantro salad! The cilantro adds an unexpected herbal note that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the watermelon. To make this salad even easier to prepare, consider using a cutting board set for dicing your watermelon and chopping the red onion and cilantro. The nonporous surface ensures you can clean up easily, and the juice grooves will help catch any liquid from the watermelon.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups watermelon, diced
– 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix watermelon, cilantro, and red onion.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss lightly with a citrus juicer for maximum juice extraction and to minimize mess.

If you want to ensure the freshness of your greens, using an salad spinner can help wash and dry the cilantro efficiently, making your salad prep a breeze.

This salad is simple yet flavorful, making it a great side dish for any BBQ spread!

Conclusion

With these 15 easy watermelon salad ideas, your next BBQ is sure to be a hit! Each salad brings something unique and refreshing to the table, making it simple to cater to every taste.

So grab your ingredients, get creative, and enjoy the delightful flavors of summer. Don’t forget to share your favorite combinations and let the festivities roll!



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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the health benefits of including watermelon salads in my diet?

Watermelon salads are not just delicious; they’re also packed with nutrients! Watermelon is hydrating, low in calories, and rich in vitamins A and C. Plus, it’s a great source of antioxidants like lycopene, which may help reduce inflammation. By incorporating watermelon salads into your meals, you’re choosing a light and refreshing option that can support hydration and overall health!

Can I make watermelon salads ahead of time for a BBQ?

Absolutely! Many watermelon salads can be prepped in advance, making them perfect for BBQs. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container in the fridge. To keep the salads fresh, consider adding dressings or delicate ingredients like herbs right before serving. This way, you can enjoy the vibrant flavors without the stress of last-minute prep!

What are some easy variations to try with watermelon salad recipes?

Get creative with your watermelon salads! You can mix and match ingredients like different cheeses (feta, goat, or mozzarella), nuts (like walnuts or almonds), or fresh herbs (mint, basil, or cilantro) to give each salad a unique twist. Adding a splash of lime juice or balsamic glaze can elevate the flavor even more. The key is to keep it light and refreshing—perfect for those summer BBQs!

How do I choose the best watermelon for my salad?

Choosing the right watermelon is crucial for a tasty salad! Look for a watermelon that feels heavy for its size with a uniform shape. The skin should have a matte finish, not shiny, and you should look for a creamy yellow spot on one side—this indicates ripeness! Give it a gentle tap; a ripe watermelon will sound hollow. These tips will help ensure your salad is as sweet and juicy as possible!

Are there any tips for making watermelon salads more filling?

If you’re looking to turn your watermelon salad into a more filling meal, consider adding protein-rich ingredients! Chickpeas, grilled chicken, or quinoa are fantastic options that pair well with watermelon. You can also add healthy fats like avocado or nuts to enhance the flavor and texture. This way, you can enjoy a light yet satisfying salad that keeps you energized for your BBQ!