What dressing pairs best with a watermelon feta salad?

A light dressing works best so it doesn’t overpower the fresh ingredients. Olive oil and lime juice are classic choices, bringing brightness to the sweet watermelon and salty feta. A touch of honey can be added if you want a hint of sweetness, while balsamic glaze gives a tangy twist that pairs beautifully.

Can I make a checkerboard salad ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best when served fresh. You can cut the cubes of watermelon, cucumber, and feta a few hours ahead and store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Assemble the checkerboard just before serving so the cubes stay crisp and the presentation looks sharp.

Is a checkerboard salad good for summer picnics?

Absolutely. Checkerboard salad was made for summer. Its juicy watermelon, crisp cucumber, and cool feta make it refreshing on hot days. Bring it chilled in a shallow container, and it will be a hit at any picnic or backyard party. For a picnic spread, I like pairing it with vegan oatmeal cookies or a cold pineapple cucumber salad for variety.

What are some variations of a watermelon feta checkerboard salad?

Beyond the classic trio, try honeydew or cantaloupe cubes for extra color. Mozzarella or goat cheese can replace feta if you want different textures. You can even add pineapple, strawberries, or kiwi for a fruit-forward checkerboard salad. It’s a playful dish that invites creativity while still keeping that signature grid pattern.

Checkerboard Salad – 5 Fresh Twists That Everyone Loves

Description

A refreshing checkerboard salad made with juicy watermelon, crisp cucumber, and creamy feta, served in a playful grid pattern. Perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

4 cups watermelon, cubed

2 cups cucumber, cubed

1 cup feta cheese, cubed

A handful of fresh mint leaves

Olive oil and lime juice, to taste

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Instructions

1. Cut watermelon into even 1-inch cubes.

2. Cut cucumber into similar-sized cubes.

3. Cube feta cheese for matching size.

4. Arrange cubes on a platter in a checkerboard pattern.

5. Sprinkle fresh mint on top and drizzle with olive oil and lime before serving.

Notes

Prepare cubes a few hours ahead and store separately if making in advance.

Add cantaloupe, honeydew, or pineapple for variations.

Swap feta with mozzarella or goat cheese for different flavors.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American, Summer

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 120
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg