Sweet and Salty Grilled Watermelon: A Summer Delight

Grilling watermelon takes this summer fruit to a whole new level. With a perfect balance of sweet and smoky flavors, it’s a tantalizing treat that will leave you wanting more. In this recipe, we take it a step further by adding a spice rub and a squeeze of lime, elevating the taste even more. Whether as an appetizer, side dish, or dessert, grilled watermelon is a must-have for your summer BBQ.

Why Grill Watermelon?

Grilling watermelon brings out a unique flavor combination that you won’t be able to resist. The sugars in the fruit caramelize, creating a delightful balance with the smoky notes from the grill. The texture becomes less watery and more chewy, adding a new dimension to the fruit.

Choosing the Right Watermelon

When selecting a watermelon, look for a brown stem, webbing on the skin, a creamy yellow underbelly, heaviness for its size, and a hollow sound when tapped. These are signs of a ripe and juicy watermelon, perfect for grilling. You can use seedless or seeded varieties, and smaller ones are easier to handle.

Tips for Grilling Watermelon

To ensure a successful grill, cut the watermelon into thick slices with the rind still on. Thick slices cook better and are less likely to break apart. Preheat your grill on high heat and avoid overcooking the watermelon, aiming for a quick char and grill marks.

Recipe Variations and Serving Ideas

As an appetizer, drizzle the grilled watermelon with olive oil and sprinkle lime zest for added flavor. For a refreshing side dish, combine chopped grilled watermelon with crumbled feta cheese, fresh mint, and other fruits like pineapples or peaches for a grilled fruit salad. As a dessert, sprinkle the grilled watermelon with sea salt, drizzle honey, and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Remember to serve the grilled watermelon immediately. If you have leftovers, wrap the uncooked melon in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Get ready to indulge in the irresistible flavors of sweet and smoky grilled watermelon. It’s a unique summer dish that will impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Sweet and Salty Grilled Watermelon recipe:

Preparation time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total: 16 min
Servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (see recipe note)
• 1 mini watermelon or 1/2 standard-sized watermelon (about 5 pounds)
• 1 lime, halved

Method

1. Preheat the grill and make the spice blend:

Turn the grill on high and let it preheat for 10 to 15 minutes. If needed, clean the grates.

Make the spice blend by combining the sugar, salt, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl.

2. Prepare the watermelon:

Rinse and dry the watermelon and place it on your cutting board. Using a large knife, trim off each end of the watermelon.

Turn the watermelon up so that it’s resting on one of the flat ends you just created. Slice it in half lengthwise. Place the watermelon halves cut side down on the board and slice into 1-inch thick slices. Then stack those larger slices and cut them in half again so you have triangular wedges.

3. Grill the watermelon:

If you’d like to be extra careful, moisten a folded paper towel with neutral oil and brush it onto the grates. As long as the grill is clean and is very hot, the watermelon should not stick.

Place the slices on the hot grill and cook each side on high until grill marks appear, 2 to 3 minutes per side. The rind should still be vibrant and green, not shriveled.

4. Season and serve:

Using tongs, remove the slices from the grill and place on a rimmed baking tray to catch any juices. Squeeze lime juice on top and sprinkle each wedge with the spice mix. Enjoy immediately.

FAQs

Can I use a regular-sized watermelon instead of a miniature one?

Yes, you can use any ripe watermelon of your choice for grilling.

Can I grill watermelon without the rind?

It’s recommended to keep the rind on to prevent the watermelon from falling apart on the grill.

How do I know if the watermelon is ripe?

Look for a brown stem, webbing on the skin, a creamy yellow underbelly, heaviness, and a hollow sound when tapped.

Can I refrigerate leftover grilled watermelon?

Grilled watermelon is best served immediately, but you can store uncooked leftover watermelon in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Can I add other fruits to the grilled watermelon salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different fruits like pineapples, peaches, or any other favorites you have.