Watermelon Cucumber Salad with Honey Lime Dressing

I have been loving watermelon this summer and this salad is a unique and fun way to use it. It has just a few yummy ingredients that create a delicious flavor. It is refreshing and the perfect side dish to bring to a barbecue or any dinner party this summer. You can also prep it ahead of time. Simply combine all of the ingredients except the dressing and store in an air tight container. Then toss the salad with the dressing just before serving. This recipe makes roughly 4 servings, so you can simply double the ingredients if you are planning to share it with more people. This recipe is also dairy and gluten free and has an easy vegan option. It also comes together in 15 minutes or less.

One of the best things about having watermelon in the summer is that it is super hydrating, containing 92% water. It also has a lot of beneficial nutrients that are thought to improve heart health, lower inflammation, and improve hair and skin health. Overall, watermelon is a low calorie snack that also has a lot of positive health benefits, so next time you're out on the water or at a barbecue and are feeling dehydrated, think about reaching for the watermelon!

Ingredients:

Salad:

• 4 cups watermelon, cubed or balled

• 1/2 english cucumber, thinly sliced

• 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves, thinly sliced + extra for garnishing

• 1/3 cup vegan Feta cheese (I used Violife Vegan Feta)

Dressing:

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp honey (replace with maple syrup for vegan option)

• 1 tbsp lime juice

• Salt to taste

Directions:

1. Add the watermelon, english cucumber, mint leaves, and vegan feta into a large bowl and set aside.

2. In a small jar or container, combine the olive oil, honey, lime juice, and salt. Shake the container vigorously until all of the ingredients are combined. You may have to stir it a little to get all of the honey combined.

3. Poor the dressing over the salad ingredients and carefully toss the salad until it is fully coated in the dressing. Taste test to see if more salt is needed based on your preference.

4. Move the salad to a serving bowl and garnish with more sliced mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Note: You can prepare the salad ahead of time by combining the salad ingredients and dressing ingredients separately. Add the dressing to the salad and toss just prior to serving.