Watermelon Salad with Rocket, Feta and Pistachios, gluten-free
Updated: Sep 27
This Watermelon Salad with Rocket, Feta and Pistachios is summer in a bowl. Sweet, juicy watermelon is combined with peppery rocket, creamy feta, fresh mint and basil, and crunchy pistachios, then finished with lime and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Fresh, colourful and ready in just 10 minutes, it’s the perfect summer salad for barbecues, entertaining or serving alongside grilled meats and seafood.
ABOUT THIS WATERMELON SALAD
What makes this salad so delicious is the balance of sweet, salty, peppery and fresh flavours. Watermelon brings natural sweetness and juiciness, feta adds a creamy saltiness, rocket gives a peppery bite, while pistachios add the perfect crunch.
The red onion is briefly marinated in fresh lime juice, zest, olive oil and salt before being added to the salad. This softens its sharpness while adding a fresh citrus flavour that works beautifully with the watermelon. Fresh basil and mint finish everything off, making this a simple but impressive salad for warm-weather entertaining.
Watch How to Make It
TIPS FOR THE BEST WATERMELON SALAD
Choose a ripe watermelon: A sweet, juicy watermelon makes all the difference. Chill it before cutting so the salad is cold and refreshing when served.
Marinate the onion: Give the red onion the full 10 minutes in the lime mixture. It softens the flavour and makes it much more pleasant to eat raw.
Use good-quality feta: Greek feta provides the salty, creamy contrast needed to balance the sweetness of the watermelon.
Use unsalted pistachios: They add crunch without introducing unnecessary extra salt alongside the feta.
Assemble just before serving: Watermelon releases liquid once cut and dressed, while rocket wilts quickly. For the freshest texture, bring everything together close to serving time.
Toss gently: Watermelon and feta can easily break apart, so gently combine the salad rather than vigorously tossing it.
MEAL PREP & STORAGE
Most of the ingredients can be prepared ahead, but keep them separate until serving.
Cube the watermelon and refrigerate in an airtight container. Slice and marinate the onion separately, and have the feta, herbs, rocket and pistachios ready to add.
For the best texture, assemble the salad just before serving. Once dressed, it is best enjoyed fresh, as the watermelon will release juice and the rocket will soften over time.
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator and enjoy as soon as possible.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
This salad is a beautiful side for roasted lamb, chicken, or fish.
It also works well as part of a Mediterranean-style spread alongside grilled vegetables, potatoes, rice dishes and other fresh salads.
For a light lunch, serve it on its own with warm gluten-free bread or steamed rice.
Watermelon Salad with Rocket, Feta and Pistachios
Prep: 10 minutes | Servings: 8 as a side dish
INGREDIENTS
1.5kg watermelon, cubed
120g baby rocket leaves
150g Greek feta, crumbled
1 red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
½ cup fresh mint leaves, torn
¼ cup chopped pistachios
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 x juice and zest of a large juicy lime
1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
pinch of sea salt
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Marinate the Onion
Add the red onion, lime juice and zest, 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of sea salt to a bowl. Toss to combine and set aside for 10 minutes, stirring 2–3 times.
2. Assemble the Salad
Meanwhile, cut the watermelon into cubes. Add the rocket, watermelon and crumbled feta to a large serving bowl.
Drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and the balsamic glaze. Top with the marinated red onion, pistachios, basil and mint.
3. Toss and Serve
Gently toss to combine and serve immediately.
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Recipe and Photography Margaret Pahos @CreateCookShare
Loved this salad but swapped pistachios with walnuts as it's what I had and was delicious!