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Fresh Watermelon Mojito Salad with mint, lime, and onions served on a white oval platter.
Layla

Watermelon Mojito Salad

A refreshing summer salad that captures all the bright, minty magic of a classic mojito in every juicy bite.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Cuban-Inspired
Calories: 142

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 cups seedless watermelon cut into 1-inch cubes, about 6 pounds with rind
  • 1 English cucumber halved lengthwise and sliced into half-moons
  • 1 cup fresh mint leaves loosely packed, plus more for garnish
  • 4 oz feta cheese crumbled
For the Mojito Dressing
  • 3 tbsp fresh lime juice about 2 limes, freshly squeezed
  • 2 tbsp white rum optional; substitute with additional lime juice
  • 1.5 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 0.5 tsp fine sea salt plus more to taste
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper freshly ground

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Small bowl or jar (for dressing)
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

Prep
  1. Spread the cubed watermelon on a large plate or sheet pan and refrigerate for 30 minutes if your melon isn't already cold. Cold watermelon makes all the difference here.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, rum (if using), honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper until the honey fully dissolves and the mixture looks slightly creamy. Taste and adjust - it should be bright, lightly sweet, and punchy.
  3. Stack half the mint leaves, roll them tightly like a cigar, and slice crosswise into thin ribbons (chiffonade). Leave the remaining leaves whole for garnish.
Assemble
  1. In a large bowl, gently toss the cold watermelon, cucumber, and sliced mint with about two-thirds of the dressing. Use your hands or a wide spatula to avoid breaking up the melon.
  2. Transfer to a serving platter, scatter the feta and whole mint leaves over the top, and drizzle with the remaining dressing. Serve immediately while cold and crisp.

Notes

For the best texture, serve within 30 minutes of assembling - the salt will eventually draw moisture from the melon. Seedless watermelon is worth seeking out; seeded varieties require frustrating prep and can taste less sweet. If bringing to a potluck, pack components separately and toss together on site.