Grilled watermelon is a surprising yet delicious twist on the classic summer fruit. When grilled, watermelon transforms from juicy and refreshing to slightly smoky and caramelized, creating a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for summer cookouts, adding a touch of flair to your grilling menu while keeping things light and refreshing.
To make grilled watermelon, start by slicing the watermelon into thick wedges or rounds, making sure the rind remains intact. This helps the slices hold together on the grill and ensures a perfect caramelized surface. Before grilling, you can brush the watermelon lightly with olive oil or a simple glaze of honey or balsamic vinegar for a deeper flavor. If you prefer, sprinkle a little salt and pepper to enhance the sweetness.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and place the watermelon slices directly onto the grill grates. Grill for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until you see grill marks and the fruit has softened slightly. The heat enhances the natural sweetness of the watermelon and gives it a smoky finish that pairs wonderfully with fresh herbs like mint, basil, or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a savory twist.
Grilled watermelon can be served on its own, drizzled with a balsamic reduction, or paired with other grilled vegetables and meats for a savory-sweet combination. For a refreshing salad, try adding it to a mix of arugula, cucumber, and feta, or toss it with a splash of lime and a dash of chili flakes for a more exotic flavor profile.
Whether as a side dish, appetizer, or dessert, grilled watermelon is an unexpected and delightful way to enjoy this summertime favorite. The combination of sweet fruit and smoky char creates a mouthwatering contrast that will have everyone asking for more!
Look for a creamy yellow spot on the underside (called the field spot), a dull skin, and a deep hollow sound when tapped. A ripe watermelon will also feel heavy for its size.
Whole watermelons can be stored at room temperature. Once cut, they should be refrigerated and kept in an airtight container for up to 3–5 days.
Yes! Watermelon is hydrating and low in calories. It’s a good source of vitamins A and C, and it contains antioxidants like lycopene, which may support heart health and reduce inflammation.
Yes, watermelon seeds are safe to eat and are even nutritious. Roasted watermelon seeds are a crunchy, protein-rich snack.
Try watermelon in salads with feta and mint, blend it into smoothies, freeze it for refreshing popsicles, or use it in salsas and grilled dishes for a sweet contrast.
Absolutely. Watermelon is over 90% water, making it one of the most hydrating fruits—perfect for hot summer days or post-workout snacks.
Ingredients
- 2 slices watermelon cut into 1-inch thick slices
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing
- 1 teaspoon sea salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to high heat.
- Brush the watermelon slices lightly with olive oil.
- Place the watermelon slices on the grill and cook for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear.
- Remove from grill and sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or appetizer.
Nutrition
This is a game changer! Who knew grilled watermelon could taste so amazing? 5 stars all the way!
Isn’t watermelon supposed to be cold? Grilling feels wrong. But I tried it and its okish.
One of the easiest recipes ever. I made it in 10 minutes and it disappeared immediately. Definitely making again.
Only 10 minutes? I tried something like this once and it got all soggy on the grill. Maybe my heat was wrong. Still, sounds tasty, gonna try again though.
I love how fast this is—grill marks on watermelon are weirdly amazing. Did you eat it as-is or with something like feta or lime?
Super easy to make! I took it to a picnic and everyone raved about it. Definitely a keeper!
I made this for my BBQ and everyone HATED it! Never again.
So easy and refreshing! Perfect for hot summer days.
I thought this was a weird combo, but it actually works! Perfect for summer! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Grilled watermelon? Seriously? Not sure about this one. Can’t imagine it tasting good.
I accidentally used regular salt (not sea salt). Still good. Also my grill was not super high heat and it took longer, but it worked.
Simple and tasty! I might try this with some spices next time!
I could really go for some grilled watermelon right now. Let’s get this party started!
Very refreshing! I added some feta after grilling, and it was a hit! Definitely recommend.
What even is this? Seems so plain with just salt and pepper. Doesn’t sound filling.
It’s actually really good! The sweetness of the watermelon with the salt and pepper is super refreshing in the summer. Give it a try!
Grilling watermelon makes no sense. Watermelon is for summer and grilling is for meat.
I totally get where you’re coming from! But have you tried grilled watermelon? It’s surprisingly good, adds a sweet and smoky flavor. Perfect for summer BBQs! 🥰
Nah, I think it’s just weird. Watermelon belongs in fruit salads or just sliced, not on a grill. Seems like a waste of good watermelon to me.
Very easy. 10 minutes total. The kids said it taste like steak or something (lol).
My kids loved it, but I thought it was kinda strange. Why would you grill fruit? 2 stars.
Grilling fruit is actually really popular! It brings out the sweetness. Maybe give it another try? I think it’s a genius idea! 5 stars.
Easy to make! But my grill is old and the slices kinda fell apart… still yummy tho!
Sounds delicious! Grilled watermelon is a surprise hit. I love it! Maybe try using a grilling basket next time to keep the slices from falling apart.
This was surprisingly good! I didn’t expect grilled watermelon to taste so nice. 5 stars!
Yuck! Watermelon should not be hot! #teamcold
This recipe is so unique! I never thought of grilling watermelon, but it turned out delicious! 5 stars!
Really, grilled watermelon? This can’t be good. Tried it anyway, and… wow, I was wrong! It was tasty!
Y’all, this is amazing! I added some feta cheese on top, and it was the best.
So good. Like candy but savory!
I tried this at a BBQ and everyone was raving! Best side dish ever!
This is such a fun appetizer. I served it with feta and mint (just had to). Would totally make again.
Mine stuck a little even though I brushed with oil. I think the grill wasn’t hot enough—still tasty though, just messy.
Grilled watermelon is surprisingly good! I drizzled some balsamic glaze on it too, and it was delish.
Not sure about the black pepper amount. I think I overdid it and it turned a little too intense for me, but I could taste the sweetness still.
Totally get that—black pepper can go from “nice kick” to “why is this spicy?” really fast. Next time I’d start with like 1/4–1/2 tsp for the whole batch, then add more only at the end to taste.
I feel you. I once used the full “to taste” amounts and it tasted almost smoky-bitter instead of sweet. Still good though—maybe cut the pepper and add a tiny pinch more salt to balance.
I followed the recipe exactly and it just tasted like salted watermelon. No big wow. Maybe my grill wasn’t hot enough? It didn’t really char.
Hmm “salted watermelon” is exactly what I get too if it doesn’t really sear. I’d try making sure the grill is ripping hot—like you see strong sizzle the moment it hits. Also, don’t overcook; 2-3 min is short, but you want real grill marks.
Wait… you grill fruit? My kids loved it but I’m still confused why you add pepper like it’s steak 😂
Not gonna lie, I was skeptical too. But black pepper brings out the flavor of the watermelon, especially when it gets those char marks.
Haha right? I swear the pepper is what makes it taste “grilled” instead of just sweet fruit. It’s not steak—just a little savory balance 😄