Hungry Healthy Happy

menu icon
go to homepage
  • About Us
  • Recipe Index
  • Meal Plans
  • Recipes To Your Inbox
  • Shop
search icon
Homepage link
  • About Us
  • Recipe Index
  • Meal Plans
  • Recipes To Your Inbox
  • Shop
×
Hungry Healthy Happy » Recipes » Salad

Kale, Watermelon and Feta Salad

Updated: May 23, 2025 · Published: Jul 19, 2018 · Written by Dannii Martin · This post may contain affiliate links which earn us commissions if purchases are made · 74 Comments

1368 shares
  • 366
  • 27
Diet: Gluten Free / Low Carb / Vegetarian
Jump to Recipe
Cubes of watermelon on a white plate
Kale and watermelon salad on a plate with a text title overlay.

This Kale, Watermelon Feta Salad is refreshing, super simple and packed full of all the good stuff. With its sweet and salty combination, it's the perfect side dish for your next BBQ. We are firm believers that salads never have to be boring. If you think they are, then you aren't making them right.

A salad made up of kale, watermelon and feta cheese on a blue plate.

This might seem like a strange combination, but trust us on this one - it really works. The saltiness of the feta and the dressing pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the watermelon.

The kale makes the perfect super green base and finishing off with a sprinkle of pecans adds plenty of crunch. 

Looking for more ways to get some kale in your diet? Why not try our Kale Smoothie, Air Fryer Kale, or Kale Crisps (such a delicious salty snack)?

Jump to:
  • Why You Will Love It
  • Ingredients and Substitutions
  • Step by Step Instructions
  • Salad Dressing
  • Kale Alternative
  • Salad Toppings
  • Extra Tips
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • More Watermelon Recipes
  • Recipe
  • Feedback

Why You Will Love It

  • A delicious new salad to try
  • A great way to use up watermelon
  • Easy to adapt
  • A delicious BBQ side dish

Ingredients and Substitutions

All the ingredients needed for this recipe with text overlay labels.

A full ingredients list, along with US Customary and Metric measurements, can be found in the recipe card at the end of this post.

  • Kale - We used curly kale as it is the easiest to find in shops. You could use black kale (also known as lacinato kale or cavolo nero), or a mixture of both.
  • Watermelon - Try to pick a watermelon that has a yellow to dark yellow patch in the skin (this is the part of the melon that was resting on the ground while growing). This indicates the ripeness of the melon - light or no yellow patch means it isn't ripe enough. A skin that is dull, rather than shiny is preferable too. And discard if the skin has large brown patches.
  • Feta - A good quality feta is a must. Make sure it is labelled 'feta' rather than 'Greek salad cheese'.
  • Nuts - We used chopped pecans as they compliment the flavours well, however cashews or even peanuts will work well.
  • Dressing - We went with a simple dressing made up of oil, vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, salt and pepper. This dressing softens the kale but lets the flavour come through.

More ingredient substitutions and variations can be found in the recipe card.

Step by Step Instructions

A metal bowl containing chopped raw kale.
  1. Step 1: Roughly chop the kale, wash well and put in a large bowl.
Dressing poured over the kale.
  1. Step 2: Add the olive oil, cider vinegar, lemon juice, garlic and salt and pepper to the kale and mix well.
Cubed watermelon and crumbled feta added to the bowl.
  1. Step 3: Add the watermelon and feta and gently mix.
The salad transferred to a plate with pecans scattered on top.
  1. Step 4: Serve and top with the crumbled pecans.

Salad Dressing

You don't want anything too overpowering because the watermelon and feta are pretty strong flavours. We just used a drizzle of olive oil, some cider vinegar and lemon juice. You can add some extra sweetness with a drizzle of balsamic glaze when serving.

Kale Alternative

You might not have had kale in a salad before, but it's one of my favourite greens in a salad. It has so much more texture and bite to it than lettuce, not to mention more nutritional benefits. Plus, look at that vibrant green colour.

If you usually find raw kale chewy, then you might prefer this salad because the dressing really softens it up, especially if you leave it for 30 minutes before adding the rest of the ingredients.

If you really aren't a fan of kale, then you could use rocket (arugula) or spinach instead.

Cubes of watermelon, crumbled feta and chopped pecans on a bed of kale leaves.

Salad Toppings

I think one of the reasons so many people think salads are boring is because they lack texture. We combat that by always adding something crunchy on top like the pecans in this watermelon and feta salad recipe.

Whilst croutons are a classic crunchy salad topping, why not change things up and go with nuts like pecans, almond flakes or cashews? You could even use seeds like sunflower, pumpkin or linseed.

Extra Tips

  • If you aren't a feta fan , then grilled halloumi makes a great substitution. It gives the dish much more of a meaty texture and feels more like a whole meal rather than a side dish.
  • Speaking of grilling, grilled watermelon is amazing. It really brings out the flavour, changes the texture and makes a great addition to this salad. Just cut the watermelon into bigger chunks/slices to that it doesn't fall through the grill.
  • We haven't added any herbs to this recipe, but in the past we have used fresh mint in it and it pairs beautifully with the watermelon and feta.
  • Another delicious addition to this salad is some olives. It gives a little bit of extra saltiness, along with the feta, that contrasts the sweetness of the watermelon.
  • Not got enough greens in this? Add some chunks of cucumber or celery for some added texture and to make it even more refreshing.
  • If you are all about the sweetness in a salad, then swap the apple cider vinegar for balsamic vinegar. Or, add a drizzle of pomegranate molasses at the end.
  • Add some fresh mint when serving to make this a really light summer salad.
  • Make this salad even chunkier by adding some diced cucumber.
A blue plate with Kale, Feta and Watermelon Salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a watermelon feta salad be made in advance?

Yes, you can chop everything up and mix it in advance and make the dressing in advance. Then, just before you are ready to serve it, mix the dressing into the salad. You don't want to add the dressing in advance, because the salad will go soggy.
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an air tight container in the fridge until the next day, however it is best to eat it right away because it is such a watery salad.

What other cheese can you use?

I think it's clear how much we love feta by now, but you know what we also love? Halloumi! It's a cheese that squeaks when you eat it and what's not to love about that?
Halloumi is best when grilled as it holds its flavour and has a real meaty texture to it. Add a few slices to this salad instead of feta for a filling meal.

More Watermelon Recipes

  • A glass of watermelon slushie with slices of watermelon and lime on the rim.
    Watermelon Slushie (Just 4 Ingredients)
  • Watermelon fruit pizza topped with fruit and a drizzle of chocolate.
    Watermelon Fruit Pizza
  • Two slices of chocolate dipped watermelon on a wooden board.
    Chocolate Dipped Watermelon
  • A Christmas Fruit Tray on a wooden surface next to a red towel.
    Christmas Fruit Tray

If you’ve tried this watermelon salad recipe, let us know how you got on in the comments below.
Tag us in your creations on Instagram @hungryhealthyhappy - Use the hashtag #hungryhealthyhappy too.

Recipe

A plate of kale, watermelon and feta salad surrounded by watermelon slices.

Kale, Feta and Watermelon Salad

By: Dannii Martin
This Kale, Feta and Watermelon Salad is refreshing, super simple and packed full of all the good stuff. With its sweet and salty combination, it's the perfect side dish for your next BBQ.
A circular logo saying GF.
Gluten Free
The words low carb in a white circle.
Low Carb
An illustration of a v-shaped plant.
Vegetarian
4.96 from 64 votes
Pin Print Save recipe Saved!
Course: Salad
Cuisine: British
Prep: 5 minutes mins
Total: 5 minutes mins
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 138kcal
Allergens:
An illustration of a carton of milk.
Dairy
An illustration of four different nuts.
Nuts
An illustration of a wine glass.
Sulphites

Ingredients

  • 100 g (3.5 oz) Curly kale - chopped
  • 2 tablespoon Olive oil
  • 2 tablespoon Apple cider vinegar
  • 0.5 Lemon - (juice only)
  • 2 Garlic clove - crushed
  • 1 pinch Sea salt and ground black pepper
  • 10 Pecans - crumbled
  • 280 g (2 cups) watermelon - diced
  • 60 g (0.5 cups) Feta

Instructions

  • Roughly chop 100 g Curly kale, wash well and put into a large bowl.
  • Add 2 tablespoon Olive oil, 2 tablespoon Apple cider vinegar, juice of 0.5 Lemon, 2 Garlic clove and 1 pinch Sea salt and ground black pepper to the kale and mix well.
  • Add 280 g watermelon and 60 g Feta and gently mix.
  • Serve into a bowl and top with the 10 Pecans (crumbled).

Recipe Tips

  • If you aren't a feta fan , then grilled halloumi makes a great substitution. It gives the dish much more of a meaty texture and feels more like a whole meal rather than a side dish.
  • Speaking of grilling, grilled watermelon is amazing. It really brings out the flavour, changes the texture and makes a great addition to this salad. Just cut the watermelon in to bigger chunks/slices to that it doesn't fall through the grill.
  • We haven't added any herbs to this recipe, but in the past we have used fresh mint in it and it pairs beautifully with the watermelon and feta.
  • Another delicious addition to this salad is some olives. It gives a little bit of extra saltiness, along with the feta, that contrasts the sweetness of the watermelon.
  • Not got enough greens in this? Add some chunks of cucumber or celery for some added texture and to make it even more refreshing.
  • If you are all about the sweetness in a salad, then swap the apple cider vinegar for balsamic vinegar. Or, add a drizzle of pomegranate molasses at the end.

Nutritional Information

Serving: 1portion | Calories: 138kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 8mg | Sodium: 210mg | Potassium: 174mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 2950IU | Vitamin C: 47.9mg | Calcium: 90mg | Iron: 0.7mg

The nutritional information provided is approximate and is calculated using online tools. Information can vary depending on various factors, but we have endeavoured to be as accurate as possible.

As all appliances vary, cooking times are a guide. Please note that by changing the serving size, the cooking time may also need to be altered.

You'll love these too...

  • Green Goddess chicken salad on a blue plate with some crackers.
    Healthy Green Goddess Chicken Salad (High Protein)
  • Chopped turkey salad in a large round serving bowl.
    Chopped Turkey Salad with Beans
  • Cottage cheese chicken salad on a plate with some crackers.
    Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
  • A large bowl of roasted broccoli salad with a serving spoon in it.
    Roasted Broccoli Salad

Comments

  1. Kristine says

    July 30, 2018 at 2:58 pm

    5 stars
    This is my kind of salad! Perfect for summertime, pinning this one to make!

    Reply
  2. Edyta at Eating European says

    July 24, 2018 at 3:52 pm

    5 stars
    Watermelon and feta goes hand in hand. I love this combo. I never added kale to mine and I think it's a great idea.

    Reply
  3. Beth says

    July 24, 2018 at 2:56 pm

    5 stars
    This salad looks so delicious! The watermelon and feta must be glorious together! Salty and Sweet! I'm definitely giving this one a try! Thanks!

    Reply
  4. Lisa says

    July 24, 2018 at 12:57 pm

    5 stars
    This is such a lovely flavor combination for a salad!

    Reply
  5. danielle wolter says

    July 23, 2018 at 11:56 am

    5 stars
    I looooove putting feta on salads. This is such a great idea!

    Reply
  6. kim says

    July 23, 2018 at 11:46 am

    5 stars
    Love watermelon and this looks so good!! Will be making these for sure!

    Reply
  7. Lisa says

    July 23, 2018 at 11:27 am

    5 stars
    I love the idea of adding in some watermelon to a salad. This is such a great dish for summer.

    Reply
  8. Linda Nortje says

    July 23, 2018 at 11:24 am

    5 stars
    As we are huge salad lovers in South-Africa, I can not wait to make your kale and watermelon salad, especially since there is feta in as well (which is a #1 fave in our house!)

    Reply
  9. angie says

    July 20, 2018 at 9:56 pm

    looks very pretty and refreshing perfect summer time salad

    Reply
  10. Traci says

    July 19, 2018 at 7:31 pm

    5 stars
    Watermelon and feta...such a yummy summer staple. And kale too? You're a girl after my own heart! I'll have to try that...just pinned for later. Thanks!

    Reply
  11. rebecca says

    July 19, 2018 at 6:44 pm

    5 stars
    this looks delicious! love the flavor combo of watermelon & feta! yum

    Reply
  12. Linda says

    July 19, 2018 at 6:26 pm

    5 stars
    Watermelon and feta is always a huge hit at our house! I need to try the halloumi variation you suggested.

    Reply
  13. Lauren Vavala @ DeliciousLittleBites says

    July 19, 2018 at 6:17 pm

    5 stars
    I've never had watermelon saald, but this looks delicious! I love the feta and pecans!

    Reply
  14. Lisa Huff says

    July 19, 2018 at 6:07 pm

    5 stars
    This is my kind of salad! Love the idea of adding watermelon to a salad in the summer!

    Reply
« Older Comments
4.96 from 64 votes (9 ratings without comment)

Made this recipe? Let me know! Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Dannii with a sunset behind her.

Welcome

My name is Dannii. Here you will find easy family recipes with a healthy twist.

Established in 2011, Hungry Healthy Happy has become one of the UK's most popular food blogs, with two successful recipe books published.

About me...

Salad Recipes

  • Roasted Vegetable Winter Salad in a white dish surrounded by crumbled feta.
    Roasted Vegetable Winter Salad
  • A plate of kale, watermelon and feta salad surrounded by watermelon slices.
    Kale, Watermelon and Feta Salad
  • A large bowl of chickpea tuna salad with a serving spoon in it.
    Chickpea Tuna Salad
  • Chopped Blue Cheese Salad in a large white bowl.
    Chopped Blue Cheese Salad
  • A bowl of watercress salad with a wooden fork and spoon in it.
    Watercress Salad
  • Little Gem Salad in a round white bowl.
    Little Gem Salad

Recipe Books

The Hungry Healthy Happy book cover.
The healthy slow cooker book cover.
the front cover of The Picky Plate eBook.

Popular Recipes

  • Leftover chicken pasta on a black plate.
    Leftover Chicken Pasta
  • Mediterranean Rice Salad in a large round serving dish.
    Mediterranean Rice Salad
  • Fourteen healthy flapjacks on a sheet of parchment paper.
    Healthy Flapjacks
  • A tortilla chip being dipped into some nacho cheese sauce.
    2 Minute Nacho Cheese Sauce
  • Sticky Ginger Beef in a bowl with rice and broccoli.
    10 Minute Sticky Ginger Beef Mince
  • Baked Egg Tortilla in a round baking dish.
    Baked Egg Tortilla (Tortilla Quiche)

Footer

Help & Information

  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility Policy
  • Advertising
  • Blog

About us

  • About us
  • Newsletter Sign Up!
  • Press enquiries
  • FAQ

Follow us


Featured in

A selection of publications that Hungry Healthy Happy has been featured in

As an Amazon Associate we earn certain commissions from qualifying purchases. By using our site, you agree that we can collect and use your data. Our privacy statement has more details.

Copyright © 2011-2024 Hungry Healthy Happy • All Rights Reserved

  • 366
  • 27

Rate This Recipe

Your vote:




A rating is required
A name is required
An email is required

Recipe Ratings without Comment

Something went wrong. Please try again.