Grilled watermelon is a surprising and delightful twist on a summer favorite. The grilling process caramelizes the natural sugars in the watermelon, creating a sweet and savory treat that pairs perfectly with a touch of salt. This unique dish is perfect for barbecues, picnics, or any time you want to impress your guests with something a little different.
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 small seedless watermelon
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 teaspoon (5 grams) sea salt or kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon (5 grams) freshly ground black pepper
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
- Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- Balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Watermelon:
- Slice the watermelon into 1-inch thick rounds. Cut each round into quarters or smaller wedges, depending on your preference.
2. Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
3. Season the Watermelon:
- Brush both sides of the watermelon wedges with olive oil. Sprinkle the sea salt and freshly ground black pepper evenly over both sides of the watermelon.
4. Grill the Watermelon:
- Place the watermelon wedges on the preheated grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the watermelon is slightly caramelized. Be careful not to overcook, as watermelon can become mushy if grilled for too long.
5. Serve:
- Remove the grilled watermelon from the grill and arrange on a serving platter.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves. For added flavor, you can sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure the grill is hot before adding the watermelon to ensure nice grill marks and caramelization.
- Experiment with different toppings such as crumbled blue cheese, toasted nuts, or a drizzle of honey for added complexity.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop.
Nutritional Information:
- Watermelon is low in calories and high in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants like lycopene. Adding olive oil and toppings like feta cheese can provide healthy fats and additional nutrients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Unique Flavor Combination: The contrast of sweet, juicy watermelon with savory salt and rich olive oil creates a complex and refreshing flavor profile.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and prep time, this dish is perfect for last-minute gatherings or quick summer snacks.
- Visually Appealing: The vibrant colors of the grilled watermelon, fresh mint, and optional toppings make for a stunning presentation.
Conclusion:
Sweet and salty grilled watermelon is a refreshing and innovative way to enjoy this classic summer fruit. The caramelized sweetness from the grill, combined with the savory touch of salt and the freshness of mint, creates a delicious and unexpected flavor experience. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a unique side dish, grilled watermelon is sure to be a hit. Enjoy this simple yet sophisticated treat and savor the flavors of summer!