Cilantro Lime Grilled Watermelon (Printer-friendly)
Smoky grilled watermelon wedges finished with zesty lime and fresh cilantro for a refreshing summer side.
# What You'll Need:
→ Produce
01 - 1 small seedless watermelon (about 4 lbs), cut into 1-inch thick wedges
02 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
03 - 2 limes, zested and juiced
→ Seasonings & Oils
04 - 2 tbsp olive oil
05 - 1/2 tsp sea salt
06 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
07 - 1/8 tsp chili flakes (optional)
# How To Make It:
01 - Heat grill to medium-high temperature, approximately 400°F.
02 - Lightly brush olive oil on both sides of each watermelon wedge, then season evenly with sea salt and black pepper.
03 - Place seasoned wedges on the preheated grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until distinct grill marks form and the fruit begins to caramelize.
04 - Transfer grilled watermelon to a serving platter. Drizzle with fresh lime juice, then sprinkle with lime zest and chopped cilantro. Add chili flakes if desired.
05 - Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or light appetizer.
# Expert Hints:
01 -
- The heat transforms watermelon into something entirely unexpected, intensifying its natural sweetness while adding this incredible smoky depth
- It takes literally 15 minutes from start to finish but looks like something from a restaurant menu
02 -
- Don't cut your wedges too thin or they'll fall through the grates, and nobody wants to fish watermelon out of the bottom of their grill
- The watermelon will soften but shouldn't become mushy, if it does you've gone too long
- Serve immediately while still warm with those charred edges, the texture contrast is everything
03 -
- A sprinkle of smoked paprika before grilling adds this gorgeous smoky depth that makes people wonder what your secret is
- Room temperature watermelon grills more evenly than cold from the fridge, let it sit out for 20 minutes first