This Peach Watermelon Salad is summer in a bowl—fresh, juicy, and so simple to throw together. It’s the kind of salad you’ll want to keep on repeat all season long!
Table of Contents
What is Peach Watermelon Salad?
Peach watermelon salad is a vibrant fruit salad that brings together some of the best summer produce in one refreshing dish. It’s light, hydrating, and just the right mix of sweet, tart, and herbaceous, with the fresh mint adding a cool finish to every bite. The fruit gets a boost of flavor from a quick honey-lime dressing, which ties everything together without overpowering the natural sweetness of the fruit.
Unlike some fruit salads that rely on heavy creams or added sugars, this one stays super fresh and simple. The combination of watermelon, stone fruit, berries, and grapes creates a colorful mix of textures—from the crunch of watermelon to the soft juiciness of nectarines and strawberries. It’s perfect as a side for cookouts, a brunch table addition, or even a midday snack when you’re craving something light but satisfying.
Ingredients You Need
- Watermelon – This fruit adds incredible juiciness and crunch. We like to cube it into bite-sized pieces so it soaks up the dressing without getting mushy.
- White Nectarines – These bring a subtle floral sweetness and a firm texture that pairs perfectly with the melon. Slice them into wedges for the best presentation.
- Red Grapes – We slice these in half to help the dressing coat each piece evenly. Grapes add a pop of sweetness and a nice chew to balance the other textures.
- Strawberries – Their juicy, slightly tangy flavor makes the salad extra vibrant. Slice them right before mixing to keep them looking fresh.
- Honey or Maple Syrup – This touch of natural sweetness enhances the fruit without overpowering it. Either option works well, so just choose the one that you prefer!
- Lime Juice – We love how lime juice adds a citrusy brightness that wakes up all the other flavors. Be sure to use fresh lime juice!
- Salt – Just a pinch helps bring out the sweetness in the fruit and balances the dressing.
- Fresh Mint – This gives the salad a cool, refreshing finish. Chop or tear it right before serving to keep the flavor bold and vibrant.
How to Make Peach Watermelon Salad
- Mix the fruit. Add the cubed watermelon, sliced nectarines, halved grapes, and strawberries to a large bowl and gently toss them together.
- Whisk the dressing. Stir together the honey or maple syrup, lime juice, and salt in a separate bowl until smooth.
- Dress the salad. Pour the dressing over the fruit and use a large spoon to gently fold everything together, making sure the fruit gets evenly coated.
- Add the mint. Place the chopped or torn mint over the top and give the salad one last gentle toss just before serving.
- Chill or serve. You can enjoy it right away, or pop it in the fridge for a little while to let the flavors come together even more.
Variations
- Yellow Peaches – They’re a little sweeter and slightly firmer than nectarines, and work beautifully in this salad.
- Cheese – Crumbled feta or fresh mozzarella pearls add a creamy, savory contrast that balances the sweetness of the fruit.
- Basil – Basil adds a peppery twist that’s just as refreshing but switches up the flavor profile.
- Cucumber – Thinly sliced cucumber brings extra crunch and keeps the salad super hydrating.
- Balsamic Glaze – A little balsamic glaze adds tang and depth. It’s perfect if you’re pairing the salad with grilled meats or a picnic spread.
- Blueberries – Blueberries give another pop of color and a juicy burst that goes so well with strawberries and grapes.
- Toasted Nuts – Try slivered almonds or chopped pistachios for a little extra texture and nuttiness.
Can I Store Leftovers?
This salad is best eaten fresh, since the fruit can release extra juices and become a little soggy after sitting.
If you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
We don’t recommend freezing this salad — the texture of the fruit will change too much once thawed.
Common Questions about Peach Watermelon Salad
You can prep the fruit a few hours ahead and keep it in the fridge, but wait to add the dressing and mint until just before serving to keep it tasting fresh.
It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, fish, or even a simple pasta dish. It’s also a great side for a picnic or barbecue.
We don’t recommend using frozen fruit for this one—it tends to be too soft once thawed and releases a lot of extra liquid, which can make the salad watery.
Absolutely! Grilled shrimp or chicken would be amazing on top, or you could toss in some quinoa for a vegetarian version.
More Fruity Recipes
There are few things we adore more than crafting snacks and sides with fresh fruit! Take a peek at some of our other fruity favorites.
Mango Chia Pudding with Fruit Salad
Fakhfakhina (Egyptian Fruit Salad)
Peach Watermelon Salad
Ingredients
- 4 cups watermelon cubed into 1-inch pieces
- 2 white nectarines cut into wedges
- 1 cup red grapes sliced in half
- 8 oz strawberries sliced
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- Juice of ½ a lime
- Pinch of salt
- ¼ cup fresh mint chopped or torn
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the watermelon, nectarines, grapes, and strawberries.4 cups watermelon, 2 white nectarines, 1 cup red grapes, 8 oz strawberries
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), lime juice, and a pinch of salt until well combined.2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup, Juice of ½ a lime, Pinch of salt
- Drizzle the dressing over the fruit and gently toss to coat.
- Sprinkle the fresh mint over the salad and give it one final gentle toss.¼ cup fresh mint
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Best enjoyed chilled!
Equipment
Would you like to save this? 🔖
We’ll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later!
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Loved this!!