Grilled Watermelon

Grilled watermelon drizzled with a honey-lime marinade creates a sweet and smoky experience, transforming the fruit into a summer staple with unique flavors and textures.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 7

Cook Time 6

Total Time 13

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Appetizer, Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Mediterranean

Calories: 80

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Watermelon

1 medium seedless watermelon (about 8–10 pounds / 3.5–4.5kg) Choose a watermelon that feels heavy for its size and has a yellowish belly patch.

For the Honey-Lime Marinade

2 limes Juice of 2 limes (about 3–4 tablespoons) Use fresh lime juice only; avoid bottled as it has a cooked flavor.
1 lime Zest of 1 lime Adds bright citrus aroma.
2 tablespoons honey Use local wildflower or acacia honey for a clean sweetness.
1/4 teaspoon chili powder or pinch of cayenne Optional for gentle heat.

For Garnishing

2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, roughly chopped Substitute with fresh mint if preferred.
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese Optional, adds a Mediterranean flavor.
1/4 cup Extra lime wedges For squeezing over before eating.
pinch flaky sea salt Optional for sprinkling over before serving.

Method

Preparation

Zest one lime into a small bowl, then juice both limes into the same bowl. Add honey and whisk until dissolved. Set aside.
Cut the watermelon into 1-inch thick triangular wedges, keeping the rind intact for structure.

Grilling

Preheat the grill to high heat (230–260°C / 450–500°F).
Brush the honey-lime marinade on all flat surfaces of the watermelon wedges, leaving the rind unbrushed.
Place the watermelon on the grill flesh-side down and grill for 2–3 minutes until marked. Flip and grill the other side for another 2–3 minutes.

Serving

Transfer hot grilled wedges to a serving platter, sprinkle with cilantro and feta, and squeeze extra lime juice over them.
Serve immediately, ideally while still warm.

Notes

Grilled watermelon is best enjoyed right after grilling. If making ahead, prep and brush wedges with marinade, then grill just before serving. Leftover grilled watermelon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.