Grilled Watermelon Recipe

Imagine biting into a slice of juicy, tender watermelon, its sweet nectar mingling with the warm, smoky char of the grill. The aroma is intoxicating, a delightful fusion of summer freshness and barbecue nostalgia. That’s right, we’re talking about grilled watermelon—a unique twist on your usual summer side dish.

Watermelon is usually savored in its raw, chilled state, but grilling it unlocks an entirely new spectrum of flavors. The heat caramelizes the natural sugars in the watermelon, intensifying its sweetness while adding a subtle, smoky flavor that will leave your taste buds wanting more. If you’ve never tried watermelon on the grill before, it’s time to give it a go with this simple yet unforgettable grilled watermelon recipe.

Why You’ll Love Grilled Watermelon

Grilling watermelon is a delicious and unexpected way to enjoy this beloved summer fruit. Whether you’re making grilled watermelon skewers, a refreshing grilled watermelon salad or a juicy grilled watermelon steak, the possibilities are endless. The smoky char on the outside contrasts beautifully with the sweet, juicy flesh inside, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

And the best part? You don’t need to be a grilling expert to make this dish—it’s way easier than you think.

Aside from being utterly delicious, it is also packed with nutrients. Watermelon is naturally hydrating, full of vitamins A and C, and contains lycopene—an antioxidant that can help protect your body from harmful free radicals. When grilled, it takes on a richer, more complex flavor profile. So not only is it a treat for your taste buds, but it’s also a healthy addition to your summer meals.

If you’re on a Nutrisystem weight loss plan, you can count one serving of this fruity treat as one SmartCarb.

How to Grill Watermelon: Simple Steps for a Smoky Twist

Grilling watermelon may sound unusual, but the process is simple and yields amazing results. To make this grilled watermelon recipe, all you need is a ripe watermelon and a little honey. Here’s how to do it:

1. Preheat the Grill: Start by heating your grill to high heat.
2. Prepare the Watermelon: Cut half of a watermelon in half again and slice it into triangles or wedges. This will make it easier to grill.
3. Grill the Watermelon: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the watermelon triangles on the grill and cook for two to three minutes per side, or until you see grill marks and a slight caramelization. The heat intensifies the natural sweetness of the watermelon while imparting a smoky flavor.
4. Add a Touch of Sweetness: Once grilled, drizzle with a bit of honey for an extra burst of sweetness and a beautiful glaze on the surface.

And just like that, you have a deliciously smoky and sweet grilled watermelon steak!

Serving Suggestions

This is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Here are some ideas on how to pair it:

• Grilled Watermelon Salad: Toss your watermelon with fresh arugula, feta cheese and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing salad. The sweet, smoky watermelon pairs perfectly with the peppery arugula and tangy feta. You could also try a watermelon salad with basil and berries for an extra burst of flavor.
• Grilled Watermelon Pizza: Swap out traditional pizza crust with watermelon slices for a fun twist on pizza night. Top your fruit pizza with fresh mozzarella, basil and a balsamic glaze, or go sweeter with whipped topping and fresh berries.
• Grilled Watermelon Salsa: Dice up the watermelon and combine with red onion, cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing salsa. Serve it with tortilla chips or use it as a topping for grilled fish or chicken.
• Grilled Watermelon Cocktail: For a fun twist, try making a watermelontini or grilled watermelon margarita. The smoky sweetness of the watermelon complements the citrusy tang of the lime and tequila perfectly.
• Grilled Watermelon Gazpacho: Blend up the watermelon with cucumbers, tomatoes and a splash of olive oil for a chilled melon gazpacho. It’s a refreshing and light dish that’s perfect for a hot summer day.

Customization Ideas

While this grilled watermelon recipe is already a crowd-pleaser, there’s plenty of room for customization. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Add Cheese: For a savory twist, sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese over your grilled watermelon. The creamy texture of the cheese perfectly complements the sweet and smoky fruit.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, try sprinkling some chili powder, Tajin or cayenne pepper on watermelon. This contrast between sweet and spicy adds a kick of flavor.
• Try Different Toppings: For a more indulgent take, drizzle the watermelon with a balsamic glaze or top it with fresh mint leaves for an added layer of freshness.
• Make It a Meal: Turn your watermelon into a main dish by pairing it with grilled chicken or fish. The smoky sweetness pairs wonderfully with savory proteins, creating a balanced and flavorful meal.

Try This Grilled Watermelon Recipe Today!

Grilling watermelon is a fun and creative way to enjoy this sweet, hydrating fruit. The smoky char from the grill enhances the natural sweetness of the watermelon, creating a delightful dish that is perfect for summer.

Give this grilled watermelon recipe a try today and discover how versatile and delicious melon can be. With endless ways to serve and customize it, you’ll find yourself coming back for more all season long. Trust us, once you try it, you’ll wonder why you never thought to grill your watermelon before!