Grilled Watermelon with Lime
Experience a delightful transformation as grilling caramelizes watermelon's natural sugars, infusing it with a smoky depth, perfectly balanced by a bright squeeze of fresh lime and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
For 4 servings
Prepare the watermelon: Cut the small seedless watermelon into 1-inch thick triangular wedges or 1-inch thick slices. Remove any visible seeds. Pat the watermelon dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps with caramelization and prevents steaming.
Preheat grill: Preheat an outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Lightly brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Brush watermelon: Lightly brush both sides of the watermelon wedges with olive oil. This helps with charring and prevents sticking.
Grill the watermelon: Place the watermelon wedges directly on the preheated grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until distinct grill marks appear and the watermelon begins to soften slightly and caramelize. Do not overcook, as it can become mushy.
Remove and season: Carefully transfer the grilled watermelon to a serving platter. Immediately squeeze the juice from one fresh lime generously over all the wedges.
Finish and serve: Sprinkle the flaky sea salt evenly over the watermelon. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature as an appetizer or light side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't Overcook: Watermelon has high water content. Grill just until char marks appear and it slightly softens; overcooking will make it mushy.
- 2Pat Dry: Before grilling, pat watermelon slices dry with paper towels. This removes surface moisture, allowing for better caramelization and preventing steaming.
- 3Ripe Watermelon: Choose a ripe, sweet watermelon for the best results. A ripe watermelon will have a deep hollow sound when tapped and a creamy yellow spot on its underside.
- 4Clean & Oiled Grates: Ensure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent the watermelon from sticking and to achieve perfect grill marks.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of chili powder or a drizzle of hot honey after grilling for a sweet and spicy contrast.
Savory TwistSavory Twist
Top with crumbled feta cheese or a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh basil for a more savory appetizer.
Dessert StyleDessert Style
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a unique dessert.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Hydration
Watermelon is over 90% water, making it excellent for hydration, especially during warm weather or after physical activity.
Rich in Antioxidants
It contains lycopene, a powerful antioxidant known for its potential benefits in heart health and cancer prevention, giving watermelon its red color.
Vitamin C Boost
A good source of Vitamin C, which is essential for immune function, skin health, and acts as another important antioxidant in the body.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, a cast-iron grill pan works perfectly for this recipe. Ensure it's preheated to medium-high heat and lightly oiled for best results.
