Summer is the perfect season for light, refreshing meals, and nothing screams summer more than a Peach Watermelon Salad. This recipe combines the juicy sweetness of peaches and watermelon with the crispness of cucumber, all brought together by a fragrant herb-infused dressing. Dive into this delightful dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a simple lunch at home. Read on to discover how you can easily make this vibrant salad, bursting with flavors and health benefits.

What is a Peach Watermelon Salad?
A Peach Watermelon Salad is a colorful and flavorful dish that combines the natural sweetness of ripe peaches and watermelon with the refreshing crunch of cucumber. The salad is dressed with a light and aromatic dressing made from avocado or olive oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, and a generous mix of fresh basil and mint leaves. This salad is a celebration of summer fruits and herbs, offering a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in every bite.
Ingredients List for Peach Watermelon Salad
Fruits
- 3 peaches: Choose ripe yet firm peaches for the best texture and flavor.
- 1 mini watermelon: Seedless watermelons are ideal for ease of preparation and eating.
- 1 English cucumber: Known for its mild flavor and thin skin, making it perfect for salads.
Salad Dressing
- 2 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil: Adds a rich, smooth base to the dressing.
- 3 tablespoon maple syrup: Provides natural sweetness and depth to the dressing.
- 2 tablespoon lemon juice: Offers a bright, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the fruits.
- 1 cup basil leaves, tightly packed: Adds a fresh, aromatic element.
- ½ cup mint leaves, tightly packed: Enhances the refreshing quality of the salad.
- ½ teaspoon sea salt: Balances the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and complexity.
Substitutions and Variations
Substitutions
- Fruits: If peaches are not in season, nectarines or plums can be used as substitutes. For the watermelon, cantaloupe or honeydew melon can be an alternative.
- Oil: If avocado oil is unavailable, extra virgin olive oil works perfectly.
- Sweetener: Instead of maple syrup, you can use honey or agave syrup.
Variations
- Herbs: Swap basil with cilantro for a different twist. Dill can also add a unique flavor profile.
- Add-ins: Incorporate other fruits like strawberries or blueberries for added color and flavor. A handful of arugula can also introduce a peppery note to the salad.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Prepare the Fruits
- Wash and Dry: Rinse the peaches, watermelon, and cucumber thoroughly under cold water.
- Peaches: Slice the peaches in half, remove the pits, and cut into thin wedges.
- Watermelon: Cut the mini watermelon in half, scoop out the flesh using a melon baller or cut into bite-sized cubes.
- Cucumber: Slice the cucumber in half lengthwise, then cut into thin half-moons.
How to Make the Dressing
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the avocado oil (or olive oil), maple syrup, and lemon juice.
- Chop Herbs: Finely chop the basil and mint leaves. Add them to the dressing.
- Season: Stir in the sea salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste.
Assembling the Salad
- Mix Fruits: In a large salad bowl, combine the peach slices, watermelon balls (or cubes), and cucumber slices.
- Add Dressing: Drizzle the dressing over the fruit mixture.
- Toss: Gently toss the salad to ensure even coating of the dressing.
How to Cook Peach Watermelon Salad: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preparation: Begin by prepping all the ingredients as detailed above. Ensure your fruits and herbs are fresh for the best flavor.
- Dressing: Make the dressing first so the flavors have time to meld while you prepare the salad.
- Assembly: Combine all components in a large bowl for easy mixing.
- Tossing: Gently toss the salad right before serving to maintain the integrity of the fruits.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Overripe Fruits: Overripe peaches and watermelon can make the salad mushy. Use ripe but firm fruits.
- Skipping the Herbs: Fresh basil and mint are crucial for the salad’s flavor. Don’t skip them or use dried versions.
- Overdressing: Add the dressing gradually. Overdressing can overwhelm the delicate flavors of the fruits.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How to Serve Peach Watermelon Salad
- Chilled: Serve the salad chilled for the best refreshing experience.
- Portion Sizes: Serve as a side dish in small bowls or as a main dish in larger portions.
Presentation Ideas for Peach Watermelon Salad
- Garnish: Add a sprig of mint or basil on top for an extra touch of freshness.
- Layering: Layer the fruits in a clear glass bowl to showcase the vibrant colors.
Peach Watermelon Salad Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: Prepare the fruits and dressing separately up to a day in advance and combine just before serving.
- Freshness: Use the freshest ingredients possible for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad before serving and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I add cheese to this salad?
Absolutely! While this recipe omits feta, you can add it or other cheeses like goat cheese for a creamy element.
How long does this salad last?
It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs are recommended for their flavor, but in a pinch, use about one-third the amount of dried herbs.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Yes, this salad is vegan-friendly, especially with the use of maple syrup as the sweetener.
Can I use other oils in the dressing?
Yes, any light-flavored oil like grapeseed or canola oil can be used as a substitute.
Conclusion
This Peach Watermelon Salad is a delightful summer dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors. The combination of juicy fruits, crisp cucumber, and aromatic herbs dressed in a sweet and tangy dressing makes for an irresistible salad. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a barbecue or enjoy a light lunch, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Don’t wait – gather your ingredients and enjoy this refreshing salad today!
PrintPeach Watermelon Salad (without feta) Recipe
Enjoy a refreshing Peach Watermelon Salad featuring juicy peaches, sweet watermelon, and crisp cucumber, dressed in a delightful basil and mint dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Fruit
- 3 peaches
- 1 mini watermelon
- 1 English cucumber
Salad Dressing
- 2 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup basil leaves, tightly packed
- ½ cup mint leaves, tightly packed
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Slice peaches and watermelon into bite-sized pieces.
- Peel and chop the cucumber.
- In a large bowl, combine the peaches, watermelon, and cucumber.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the avocado oil, maple syrup, lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the fruit and cucumber mixture.
- Add the basil and mint leaves, gently tossing to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill for a refreshing cold salad.
Notes
- This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for a few hours before serving.
- Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more or less maple syrup as per taste.
- For added crunch, consider adding some chopped nuts or seeds.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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