Fresh Strawberry Watermelon Salad

This refreshing strawberry and watermelon salad combines juicy summer fruits with creamy cottage cheese and a bright honey-lime dressing for the perfect light meal or side dish. The combination of sweet fruits with the tangy dressing creates a beautiful balance that showcases the best flavors of the season.

I first made this salad for a backyard gathering during a particularly hot summer, and it was the first dish to disappear. Now it has become my go-to recipe whenever watermelons and strawberries are in season.

Ingredients

• Fresh strawberries choose bright red berries with a sweet fragrance for the best flavor
• Watermelon look for a melon that feels heavy for its size and has a creamy yellow spot indicating ripeness
• Fresh mint adds a cooling freshness that complements the fruits beautifully
• Cottage cheese provides a creamy protein element that balances the sweetness
• Avocado oil has a neutral flavor that lets the fruit flavors shine
• Lime juice fresh is essential for the brightest flavor
• Honey use a light variety to avoid overpowering the fruits
• Sea salt enhances all the flavors and creates a surprising depth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the dressing

Combine avocado oil, lime juice, honey, and sea salt in a small bowl. Whisk thoroughly until the honey is fully incorporated and the dressing has a smooth consistency. The salt helps balance the sweetness and brings out the fruit flavors. Set aside to allow flavors to meld while preparing the fruits.

Prepare the strawberries

Select ripe, fragrant strawberries and rinse them gently under cool water. Pat them dry with paper towels to prevent diluting the flavors. Remove the stems and slice them into halves or quarters depending on their size. Uniform pieces ensure every bite has balanced flavors.

Prepare the watermelon

Choose a ripe, sweet watermelon and cut it into consistent 1inch cubes. Remove any seeds you encounter. The watermelon should be cold for the best texture and refreshing quality in the final salad.

Assemble the salad

Arrange the cubed watermelon and sliced strawberries on a serving platter with slightly raised edges to contain the juices. Gently fold in the finely chopped fresh mint, distributing it evenly throughout. Crumble the cottage cheese over the fruits in small dollops. Drizzle the prepared honey lime dressing across the entire salad. Finish with an extra squeeze of fresh lime juice and a light sprinkle of sea salt to brighten all the flavors.

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The mint in this recipe truly transforms it from ordinary to special. I grow several varieties in my garden, and chocolate mint adds an unexpected twist that my family particularly loves with the strawberries. One summer evening, we served this salad during a power outage, and everyone agreed it was the perfect cooling dish on a hot night.

Make Ahead Options

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare components ahead of time. Wash and slice the strawberries and watermelon up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The dressing can be made up to 3 days ahead and refrigerated. Just assemble everything right before serving for the best texture and freshness.

Ingredient Substitutions

If cottage cheese isn't your preference, feta cheese makes an excellent alternative with its salty tanginess. For a dairy free version, try diced avocado which provides a similar creamy texture. Basil can stand in for mint, offering a different but equally delicious aromatic quality. And if watermelon isn't available, cantaloupe or honeydew make wonderful substitutions while maintaining that refreshing juiciness.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile salad shines as a light lunch on its own but also makes a perfect companion to grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. For brunch gatherings, serve it alongside quiche or frittata for a fresh contrast. During hot summer days, I love serving it as a starter before a barbecue meal to refresh everyone's palate. For an elegant touch at dinner parties, serve individual portions in stemless wine glasses.

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Common Questions

→ Can I prepare this watermelon strawberry salad ahead of time?

For best results, prepare the dressing up to 24 hours ahead and store separately. Cut the fruit no more than 2-3 hours before serving and add the dressing, mint, and cottage cheese just before serving to maintain optimal freshness and texture.

→ What can I substitute for cottage cheese?

Feta cheese makes an excellent substitute with its salty flavor that complements the sweet fruit. For dairy-free options, try avocado cubes or crumbled soft tofu. Goat cheese or ricotta also work well for different flavor profiles.

→ How long does this fruit salad stay fresh?

This salad is best consumed within 24 hours of preparation. The watermelon will begin to release water and the strawberries may soften. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

→ Can I use a different oil in the dressing?

Yes, extra virgin olive oil or a light neutral oil like grapeseed oil work well as substitutes for avocado oil. Choose oils with mild flavors that won't overpower the delicate fruit flavors.

→ What main dishes pair well with this salad?

This refreshing salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp. It also complements barbecue dishes, sandwiches, and light pasta meals. For a complete vegetarian meal, serve alongside a quinoa or chickpea dish.

→ How can I make this salad more filling?

Add protein by increasing the cottage cheese amount or including chopped nuts like pistachios or walnuts. For more substance, mix in cooked quinoa, farro, or wild rice. Avocado chunks also add healthy fats and create a more satisfying dish.