These Watermelon Mint Feta Skewers are the ultimate refreshing summer appetizer—juicy, salty, and herby all in one bite. Drizzled with a vibrant mint pesto, they’re easy to assemble, eye-catching, and perfect for parties or picnics.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- Watermelon & Feta – Sweet and salty combo that’s juicy, creamy, and totally refreshing
- Cucumber – Adds crunch and freshness to balance the bold flavors
- Mint & Basil – Bright, aromatic herbs that lift the whole dish
- Pine Nuts & Garlic – Add depth and nutty richness to the pesto
- Lemon Juice – Brings acidity to brighten and balance the flavors
- Olive Oil – Creates a smooth, rich pesto base
- Red Pepper Flakes – Optional heat for a little kick
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning and flavor balance
- Water (optional) – Adjusts pesto to desired consistency
Alternative Ingredients
- Feta – Try halloumi or mozzarella cubes for a milder, less crumbly option
- Pine Nuts – Swap with walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for similar texture
- Mint – Use all basil or try parsley for a different herbal twist
- Lemon Juice – White wine vinegar or lime juice works in a pinch
- Red Pepper Flakes – Use a dash of hot sauce or leave out for no heat
Nutritional Benefits
- Hydration: Watermelon has a high water content, helping to keep you hydrated on hot days.
- Healthy fats: Olive oil in the pesto provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Antioxidants: Basil and mint are rich in antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Calcium: Feta cheese offers a good source of calcium, supporting bone health.
- Digestive health: Cucumbers and watermelon are high in fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
- Immune support: Mint and basil provide a boost of vitamin C, essential for immune function.
- Electrolyte balance: Watermelon and feta provide natural sodium and potassium to help balance electrolytes.
Expert Tips
For extra flavor, grill the skewers briefly to add a smoky touch before serving.
Use a melon baller to scoop watermelon into perfect bite-sized balls for a uniform look.
If you’re short on time, buy pre-cut watermelon and feta to save on prep time.
Drizzle pesto just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant
FAQs
Yes! Assemble them a few hours ahead and refrigerate. Add pesto just before serving.
You can layer the ingredients on a platter and serve it as a deconstructed salad.
Absolutely—mozzarella, halloumi, or goat cheese all work well.
It’s optional but adds a big flavor boost. You can also use store-bought pesto in a pinch.
Use a block of firm feta and cut it with a sharp knife—avoid pre-crumbled versions.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these skewers alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or veggie kebabs for a light summer meal. They also pair beautifully with chilled rosé or sparkling water with lime for a refreshing combo.
Storage Suggestions
Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the pesto separate and drizzle just before serving to maintain freshness.
You’ll also enjoy:
- Fattoush Summer Salad
- Korean BBQ Wings
- Peach Ricotta Focaccia
- Black Salsa Verde
- Healthy Loaded Nachos
- Spicy Edamame
- Cucumber Lemonade
- Baked Brie with Jam
- Vegan Elote
Watermelon Mint Feta Skewers
Ingredients
For the mint pesto
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves packed, plus more for garnishing (optional)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves packed, plus more for garnishing (optional)
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water as needed for preferred consistency
For the watermelon feta skewers
- 2 cups watermelon cubed
- 1 cup feta cubed
- 1-2 cucumbers sliced into ribbons (use a peeler or cut by hand) or chopped into large chunks
Instructions
For the mint pesto
- In a food processor, combine fresh mint leaves, basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes.1 cup fresh mint leaves, 1 cup fresh basil leaves, 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts, 1 garlic clove, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- Pulse until the ingredients are roughly chopped.
- With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the pesto becomes smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, Salt and pepper to taste
- Add water, one tablespoon at a time, to achieve your desired consistency.Water
For the watermelon feta skewers
- Using a vegetable peeler, peel long ribbons of cucumber along the length of the cucumber. Rotate the cucumber as you go to create uniform ribbons. You can also just cut cucumber cubes for something quick and easy.1-2 cucumbers
- Cube the watermelon and feta cheese into bite-sized pieces.2 cups watermelon, 1 cup feta
- Thread a cube of watermelon, followed by a cube of feta, and a cucumber ribbon onto each skewer.
- Repeat until all skewers are filled.
- Drizzle the mint pesto over the skewers just before serving.
- Arrange on a serving platter and enjoy immediately for the freshest taste.
Notes
- For a fun twist, try using different fruits like cantaloupe or honeydew in place of watermelon.
- If you’re short on time, pre-packaged mint pesto or store-bought feta work as convenient shortcuts.
- Adjust the level of spice in the pesto by adding more or less red pepper flakes, depending on your preference.
- To prevent the skewers from splintering, soak wooden skewers in water for 10 minutes before using.
- These skewers are best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days—just keep the pesto separate to preserve its flavor.
Nutrition
Disclaimer: I am a health and wellness coach with a degree in health science from Arizona State University. However, I am not a doctor or registered dietitian. Any information or advice provided on this website is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any dietary or lifestyle changes, especially if you have a medical condition. The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional medical advice or a substitute for it.
THIS WAS AMAZING!! THE FLAVORS BLEND SO PERFECTLY!!
I am glad you enjoyed 🙂
This is a delicious, sweet and slightly tangy meal or snack! The pesto is the super star here. Definitely worth a try at your next family picnic or outdoor barbecue!
I am so happy to hear you enjoyed the recipe Sarah. 🙂
Would not have thought of combining fruit with cheese. It was delicious!