Grilled Watermelon: The Ultimate Summer Grilling Guide

Grilled Watermelon: Prepare to have your summer barbecue game forever changed! I know, I know, grilling watermelon might sound a little… unconventional. But trust me on this one. This isn’t just a quirky food trend; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen, and I’m so excited to share this recipe with you.

While the exact origins of grilling watermelon are a bit hazy, the technique has gained popularity in recent years as chefs and home cooks alike experiment with the incredible versatility of this summer fruit. Think of it as a modern twist on a classic ingredient, elevating it to a whole new level of deliciousness. The heat caramelizes the natural sugars in the watermelon, creating a slightly smoky, subtly sweet flavor that’s simply irresistible.

People adore grilled watermelon for so many reasons. First, there’s the unexpected texture – the outside gets a delightful char while the inside remains juicy and refreshing. Then, there’s the taste – the sweetness is intensified, and the smoky notes add a depth of flavor you wouldn’t believe. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it the perfect dish for a casual backyard gathering or a fancy summer soiree. Whether you’re looking for a unique appetizer, a light and refreshing side dish, or even a surprisingly delicious dessert, grilled watermelon is guaranteed to impress. So, fire up your grill and get ready to experience watermelon in a whole new light!

Ingredients:

• 1 small seedless watermelon, about 10-12 pounds
• 1/4 cup olive oil, extra virgin
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
• 1 tablespoon lime juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 teaspoon sea salt, fine
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• Arugula or baby spinach for serving (optional)

Preparing the Watermelon:

1. Choose your watermelon wisely! Look for a watermelon that feels heavy for its size and has a dull, not shiny, rind. A yellow spot (where it rested on the ground) is a good sign of ripeness.
2. Wash the watermelon thoroughly. Before cutting into it, give the watermelon a good scrub under cold running water. This will prevent any dirt or bacteria from being transferred to the flesh as you slice.
3. Cut off the ends. Using a large, sharp knife, carefully cut off about an inch from both ends of the watermelon. This will create a stable base for easier slicing.
4. Remove the rind. Stand the watermelon upright on one of the flat ends. Following the curve of the watermelon, carefully slice off the rind from top to bottom, working your way around the entire watermelon. Make sure to remove all the white part of the rind, leaving only the red flesh.
5. Slice into steaks. Now, slice the watermelon into “steaks” that are about 1-inch thick. You should get about 6-8 steaks from a small watermelon. If you prefer, you can also cut the watermelon into triangles or cubes, but I find the steaks hold up best on the grill.
6. Pat dry. Gently pat the watermelon steaks dry with paper towels. This will help them get a nice sear on the grill.

Making the Marinade:

1. Whisk together the marinade ingredients. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic glaze, lime juice, sea salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well combined. The balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and tang that complements the watermelon perfectly.
2. Brush the watermelon with marinade. Using a pastry brush, generously brush both sides of each watermelon steak with the marinade. Don’t be shy! You want to make sure the watermelon is well coated.
3. Let it marinate (optional). While you can grill the watermelon immediately, letting it marinate for about 15-30 minutes will allow the flavors to meld together even more. If you choose to marinate, place the watermelon steaks in a shallow dish and cover them with plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator.

Grilling the Watermelon:

1. Prepare the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-450°F or 190-230°C). Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the watermelon from sticking. You can use a grill brush to clean the grates and then rub them with an oil-soaked paper towel.
2. Grill the watermelon steaks. Carefully place the watermelon steaks on the hot grill grates. Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until you see nice grill marks and the watermelon is slightly softened. Be careful not to overcook the watermelon, as it can become mushy.
3. Watch for sticking. If the watermelon starts to stick to the grill, gently lift it with a spatula and try moving it to a slightly different spot on the grill.
4. Remove from the grill. Once the watermelon steaks are grilled to your liking, carefully remove them from the grill and place them on a clean plate or platter.

Assembling and Serving:

1. Let the watermelon cool slightly. Allow the grilled watermelon steaks to cool for a few minutes before adding the toppings. This will prevent the feta cheese from melting too quickly.
2. Add the toppings. Sprinkle the grilled watermelon steaks with the chopped fresh mint, crumbled feta cheese (if using), and thinly sliced red onion (if using).
3. Serve immediately. Serve the grilled watermelon steaks immediately as a refreshing appetizer, side dish, or even a light dessert. You can serve them on a bed of arugula or baby spinach for a more substantial salad.
4. Optional additions. Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Other delicious options include:
   • A drizzle of honey or agave nectar
   • A sprinkle of chili flakes for a touch of heat
   • Toasted nuts, such as pecans or walnuts
   • Fresh basil leaves
   • A squeeze of lemon juice
5. Enjoy! This grilled watermelon recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors is simply irresistible.

Tips and Variations:

• Grill pan option: If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can also use a grill pan on your stovetop. Heat the grill pan over medium-high heat and follow the same grilling instructions.
• Vegetarian/Vegan option: To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a vegan feta alternative.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Sweeten it up: Drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the grilled watermelon for extra sweetness.
• Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs, such as basil, rosemary, or thyme, in the marinade or as a garnish.
• Fruit combinations: Grill other fruits alongside the watermelon, such as peaches, pineapple, or strawberries.
• Salad variation: Cut the grilled watermelon into cubes and toss it with arugula, feta cheese, red onion, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing summer salad.

Storage Instructions:

Grilled watermelon is best enjoyed immediately. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that the watermelon may become slightly softer after being refrigerated.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: 150-200
• Fat: 10-15g
• Saturated Fat: 2-3g
• Cholesterol: 5-10mg
• Sodium: 200-300mg
• Carbohydrates: 15-20g
• Fiber: 1-2g
• Sugar: 10-15g
• Protein: 2-3g

Conclusion:

So there you have it! Grilled watermelon – a surprisingly delicious and refreshing treat that’s guaranteed to be a conversation starter at your next barbecue. I know, I know, grilling watermelon might sound a little…out there. But trust me on this one. The high heat caramelizes the natural sugars in the watermelon, intensifying its sweetness and adding a subtle smoky char that elevates it to a whole new level. It’s truly a must-try!

Why is this recipe a must-try? Because it’s unexpected, it’s easy, and it’s incredibly satisfying. It takes just minutes to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a burst of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. Forget boring side dishes; this grilled watermelon is a showstopper. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up that giant watermelon you bought at the farmer’s market!

But the fun doesn’t stop there! The possibilities for serving and variations are endless. For a simple and refreshing side, serve the grilled watermelon slices as is, perhaps with a sprinkle of sea salt and a squeeze of lime. Or, get a little more creative!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Watermelon & Feta Salad: Crumble some feta cheese over the grilled watermelon and drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet and savory explosion. Add some fresh mint or basil for an extra layer of flavor.
* Grilled Watermelon Skewers: Thread cubes of grilled watermelon onto skewers with halloumi cheese and cherry tomatoes for a fun and flavorful appetizer.
* Watermelon Salsa: Dice the grilled watermelon and combine it with red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice for a vibrant and refreshing salsa. Serve with tortilla chips or grilled fish.
* Grilled Watermelon Pizza: Use a large slice of grilled watermelon as the base for a “pizza.” Top it with ricotta cheese, prosciutto, arugula, and a drizzle of honey.
* Watermelon Agua Fresca: Blend the grilled watermelon with water, lime juice, and a touch of agave for a refreshing and hydrating drink.
* Spice it up! Before grilling, brush the watermelon with a mixture of chili powder, lime juice, and a pinch of salt for a spicy kick.
* Sweeten the deal! Drizzle the grilled watermelon with honey or maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own favorite way to enjoy this grilled watermelon. The key is to have fun and let your creativity shine!

I truly believe that once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked. It’s a simple yet sophisticated way to enjoy one of summer’s most beloved fruits. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I can’t wait to hear what you think.

So, what are you waiting for? Fire up the grill and give this grilled watermelon recipe a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed. And please, don’t be shy! Share your photos and experiences with me in the comments below. I’d love to see your creations and hear about your favorite variations. Happy grilling!