Watermelon, Cucumber & Halloumi Salad

When it’s hot outside and you’re craving something refreshing but still satisfying, this Watermelon, Cucumber & Halloumi Salad is exactly what you need. Juicy watermelon, crisp cucumber, and golden grilled halloumi come together in a bright, herb-filled bowl that tastes like pure summer.

This is not your average salad—it’s salty, sweet, crunchy, and creamy all at once. And the best part? It takes just minutes to make, but looks and tastes like something you’d order at a coastal café.

this Recipe

What Is Watermelon, Cucumber & Halloumi Salad?

This salad is a simple but flavor-packed dish made with fresh watermelon, sliced cucumbers, and chunks of halloumi cheese that are quickly seared until golden and warm. It’s finished with a drizzle of olive oil, fresh mint, parsley, and a light vinaigrette that ties everything together.

Halloumi is the star here—it’s a semi-firm cheese from Cyprus that doesn’t melt when grilled, so it adds a savory, crispy-edged element that plays beautifully with the sweet watermelon and cool cucumbers.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

• Quick and easy—ready in just 15 minutes
• Perfect for summer—cool, fresh, and vibrant
• Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian
• A balance of sweet, salty, and tangy
• Show-stopping presentation with minimal effort

What Does It Taste Like?

Every bite is a burst of contrast. The watermelon is sweet and juicy, the cucumber is crisp and refreshing, and the halloumi is warm, savory, and slightly chewy with those irresistible crispy edges from the grill pan. The herbs and dressing add brightness, making this salad feel light but still satisfying.

Benefits of Making This at Home

• No fancy equipment needed
• Healthier than restaurant versions—you control the ingredients
• Perfect for entertaining or weeknight dinners
• Great as a main or side dish
• Flexible—easy to customize with other fruits or greens

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need for this Watermelon, Cucumber & Halloumi Salad:

• 8 oz halloumi cheese, cut into cubes or slices
• 2 cups watermelon, cubed
• 1 cup cucumber, sliced into rounds or half-moons
• 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for grilling halloumi)

For the Dressing:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tbsp lemon juice or lime juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Tools You’ll Need

• Grill pan or skillet
• Knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or small jar for dressing
• Spatula

Ingredient Additions & Swaps

• Add avocado for creamy texture
• Use feta if you don’t have halloumi (skip the grilling)
• Swap mint for basil for a twist
• Add arugula or spinach to make it more of a green salad
• Top with nuts or seeds for extra crunch (try pistachios or pumpkin seeds)

How to Make Watermelon, Cucumber & Halloumi Salad

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the dressing: Whisk together olive oil, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
2. Grill the halloumi: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Brush halloumi cubes with olive oil and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine watermelon, cucumber, grilled halloumi, mint, and parsley.
4. Dress and toss: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately: Garnish with extra herbs and a sprinkle of black pepper if desired.

What to Serve With This Salad

• Grilled chicken or shrimp
• Lemon herb couscous or quinoa
• Crusty bread or pita
• A chilled glass of rosé or sparkling water with lime
• As part of a picnic spread or Mediterranean-style dinner

Tips for the Best Salad

• Use ripe but firm watermelon so it holds its shape
• Don’t overcook the halloumi—just enough to get golden edges
• Serve right away for the best texture and flavor
• Cut even cubes for a beautiful presentation
• Try it with chilled melon for extra refreshment

Storage Instructions

• Best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 day
• Halloumi is best eaten warm, but you can reheat it in a skillet before serving leftovers
• Keep dressing separate if making ahead to prevent sogginess

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead, but assemble just before serving to keep the textures fresh.

What’s the best way to grill halloumi?

Use a dry non-stick skillet or lightly oiled grill pan over medium heat. Halloumi grills quickly—just 1–2 minutes per side.

Can I use other cheeses?

Yes! Feta or goat cheese work if you skip the grilling step, but you’ll lose the warm, crispy element that halloumi provides.

Conclusion

This Watermelon, Cucumber & Halloumi Salad is a fresh, flavor-packed dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. It’s perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or anytime you need something light but satisfying. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it all season long!

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 280
• Fat: 20g
• Carbs: 12g
• Sugar: 9g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 1g

📸 Made this salad? Tag me on Pinterest or drop a comment below—I’d love to see your version! 🍉🧀🥒

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July 13, 2025 by Melissa