Grilled Watermelon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled Watermelon is a refreshing, unique twist on a summer classic. The natural sugars in the watermelon caramelize when grilled, creating a smoky-sweet flavor that is both savory and sweet. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or light dessert, this simple and quick recipe will elevate your grilling game and impress your guests with minimal effort.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

seedless watermelon (cut into thick wedges or rounds)
olive oil
sea salt
fresh lime juice
fresh mint or basil (optional, for garnish)

directions

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Brush both sides of the watermelon slices with a light coat of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Place the watermelon slices on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the fruit softens slightly.

Remove the watermelon from the grill and drizzle with fresh lime juice.

Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt to enhance the sweetness.

Garnish with fresh mint or basil leaves, if desired, for a refreshing, herbal kick.

Serve immediately and enjoy this smoky, juicy treat!

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 4 servings.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Grilling time: 5-6 minutes
Total time: about 10 minutes

Variations

Drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze for extra sweetness.
Top with crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese for a savory contrast.
Add a sprinkle of chili powder or a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick.
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a fun dessert twist.

storage/reheating

Grilled watermelon is best served immediately, but you can refrigerate leftovers for up to 1 day. Reheat gently on the grill for a few minutes to warm it up.
Do not freeze, as the texture will change.

FAQs

Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?
Yes, a grill pan works great indoors and gives you the same grilled effect.

Do I need to peel the watermelon?
No, the rind should be left on for grilling, which helps hold the watermelon together.

Can I add spices to the grilled watermelon?
Definitely! Try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of cinnamon for extra flavor.

What can I serve with grilled watermelon?
Grilled watermelon pairs well with grilled meats, cheeses, or a fresh summer salad. It’s also great as a standalone snack.

Can I grill watermelon slices ahead of time?
Grilled watermelon is best enjoyed right off the grill, but you can prep the watermelon ahead and grill it when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Grilled Watermelon is a surprising and delightful treat that brings out the natural sweetness of the fruit while adding a smoky depth of flavor. It’s the perfect light, refreshing addition to your BBQ or summer dinner and is sure to impress your guests with its unique twist on a classic.

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