Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in less than 15 minutes.
- Sweet, smoky, and incredibly refreshing.
- Perfect for summer BBQs and cookouts.
- Naturally gluten-free and vegan (without cheese).
- Easy to customize with savory or sweet toppings.
Ingredients
- 1 small seedless watermelon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
Optional Toppings
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh mint leaves
- Fresh basil
- Balsamic glaze
- Lime wedges
- Hot honey
- Chili flakes or Tajín seasoning
- Toasted pistachios
- Flaky sea salt
Equipment
- Outdoor grill or grill pan
- Tongs
- Sharp knife
- Paper towels
How to Prepare the Watermelon
- Cut the watermelon into thick wedges or rectangular slices about 1 to 1½ inches thick.
- Remove the rind if desired, or leave it on for easier handling.
- Pat each slice dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps create better grill marks.
- Lightly brush both sides with olive oil.
How to Grill Watermelon
Step 1: Heat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400°F/200°C). Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Grill
Place the watermelon slices directly on the hot grill.
Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, just until deep grill marks appear.
Avoid overcooking, as the watermelon can become too soft.
Step 3: Season
Transfer the grilled watermelon to a serving platter.
Sprinkle lightly with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
Serving Ideas
Mediterranean Style
Top with:
- Crumbled feta
- Fresh mint
- Balsamic glaze
Spicy Version
Finish with:
- Tajín seasoning
- Lime juice
- Chili flakes
Sweet Dessert
Drizzle with:
- Honey
- Vanilla yogurt
- Toasted coconut
- Fresh berries
Tips for Success
- Choose a ripe but firm watermelon for the best texture.
- Pat the watermelon dry before grilling.
- Grill quickly over high heat.
- Don’t leave it on the grill too long or it may become mushy.
- Serve immediately while still slightly warm.
Variations
Grilled Watermelon Salad
Combine grilled watermelon with:
- Arugula
- Feta cheese
- Cucumbers
- Red onion
- Mint
- Balsamic vinaigrette
Tropical Version
Serve with:
- Mango
- Pineapple
- Lime juice
- Coconut flakes
BBQ Side Dish
Pair grilled watermelon with:
- Grilled chicken
- Burgers
- Steak
- Shrimp
- Fish tacos
Storage
Grilled watermelon is best enjoyed fresh.
If needed, refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The texture will soften slightly after chilling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you grill watermelon?
Yes! Grilling enhances watermelon by caramelizing its natural sugars while adding a smoky flavor.
Do you leave the rind on?
Either works. Leaving the rind on makes the slices easier to flip on the grill.
Is grilled watermelon healthy?
Absolutely. Watermelon is naturally low in calories, rich in vitamins A and C, and packed with water for hydration.
What goes well with grilled watermelon?
Feta cheese, mint, basil, lime, balsamic glaze, hot honey, chili seasoning, grilled meats, and fresh salads all pair beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Watermelon is one of the easiest ways to elevate a classic summer fruit. With smoky grill marks, juicy sweetness, and endless topping possibilities, it’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for BBQs, picnics, and warm-weather entertaining. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, salad, or dessert, this unique recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
