Grilled Watermelon With Balsamic (Printable)

Smoky grilled watermelon meets tangy balsamic, creamy feta, and fresh mint for a refreshing summer dish.

# What You Need:

→ Produce

01 - 1 small seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch thick slices
02 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
03 - 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
04 - 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
05 - 2 cups arugula or baby greens

→ Cheese

06 - 3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

→ Dressing

07 - 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
08 - 2 tbsp balsamic glaze or balsamic reduction
09 - 1 tsp Dijon mustard
10 - 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
11 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

12 - 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds or pine nuts (optional)

# How To Make It:

01 - Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
02 - Cut the watermelon into rounds or wedges approximately 1-inch thick. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
03 - Place watermelon slices on the hot grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until distinct grill marks appear, but the fruit remains firm. Remove and let cool slightly, then cut into cubes or triangles.
04 - In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic glaze, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), salt, and pepper until emulsified and smooth.
05 - In a large salad bowl, combine arugula or baby greens, grilled watermelon pieces, cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion.
06 - Drizzle the balsamic dressing evenly over the salad. Gently toss with tongs to coat all ingredients without damaging the watermelon.
07 - Top with crumbled feta cheese, fresh mint leaves, and toasted seeds or nuts if desired. Serve immediately while the watermelon is still slightly warm.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The way warm grilled watermelon releases its juices into the dressing creates this incredible sweet and savory synergy you cant get any other way
  • It comes together in under 25 minutes but looks and tastes like something from a fancy restaurant terrace
02 -
  • Over-grilling turns watermelon into mush so watch closely and pull it as soon as those grill marks appear
  • Patting the watermelon completely dry before grilling is the difference between getting those beautiful char lines and just steaming the fruit
03 -
  • Skip the feta and use a plant-based alternative or just go cheese-free for an equally delicious vegan version
  • Let the watermelon come to room temperature before grilling for more even cooking

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