Name: Grilled Watermelon Salad
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 small 5-pound seedless watermelon (cut into eight 1-inch wedges); 2 tablespoons olive oil; to taste salt; to taste freshly ground black pepper; 8 cups arugula ((washed and dried)); 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese

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Every summer, I find myself craving something fresh, light, and a little unexpected. That’s when I turn to my favorite dish, Grilled Watermelon Salad. There’s just something magical about the contrast of sweet, juicy watermelon paired with the savory notes of cheese and the peppery bite of arugula. It’s like a little celebration on a plate! I remember the first time I made this for a backyard barbecue. Everyone was skeptical at first—grilled watermelon? But as soon as they took a bite, their expressions transformed. Laughter and delight filled the air as they savored the bright flavors and refreshing textures. This isn’t just a salad; it’s an experience that brings people together.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
25 mins

Cook Time:
5 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
9 g

Tools Used:
Cutting Board, Kitchen Knife

Why Try This Grilled Watermelon Salad

Perfect for Hot Days

One of the best things about Grilled Watermelon Salad is how refreshing it is. On hot summer days, a light and vibrant dish like this is precisely what you need. The grilled watermelon brings a delightful warmth that contrasts beautifully with its cool center, making each bite incredibly satisfying.

Easy to Prepare

Don’t let the grilling fool you; this salad is super simple to make. Just a few quick steps get you to a stunning dish that looks like it took hours in the kitchen. You’ll impress your guests with minimal effort, leaving you more time to enjoy their company.

Versatility in Ingredients

Another reason to love this salad is its versatility. You can easily swap ingredients to fit your taste or dietary preferences. Want to add some nuts for crunch? Go for it! Prefer a different cheese? That works too! The key is to keep the core elements that make this dish shine—sweetness, saltiness, and a touch of earthiness.

Colorful and Eye-Catching

Let’s talk about presentation. The vibrant colors of the watermelon, arugula, and feta create a feast for the eyes. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to reach for your camera before you even dig in. It not only tastes great but looks fantastic on the table!

Perfect for Any Gathering

This salad isn’t just for summer picnics. It’s versatile enough for any gathering—from casual weeknight dinners to elegant dinner parties. It’s always a hit, and I’ve yet to find a guest who doesn’t fall in love with it!

What to Gather for Grilled Watermelon Salad

When it comes to making Grilled Watermelon Salad, the ingredients play a crucial role in creating a harmonious flavor profile. You have the juicy sweetness of watermelon, the crispness of arugula, and the tanginess of balsamic vinegar. Together, they form a beautiful dance of flavors that are fresh and exciting. Let’s explore the key players in this refreshing salad!

1 small 5-pound seedless watermelon: This juicy fruit is the star of the show. When grilled, the sweetness intensifies, making it a wonderful contrast to the other ingredients.
2 tablespoons olive oil: This adds a lovely richness and helps to grill the watermelon beautifully.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning, these ingredients enhance the natural flavors of the salad.
8 cups arugula: This peppery green adds a nice bite and complements the sweetness of the watermelon.
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: A drizzle of this tangy vinegar brings everything together, adding depth to the salad.
1 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese: The creamy texture and salty flavor of the cheese provide a delightful contrast.

Preparation Steps for Grilled Watermelon Salad

Preparing Grilled Watermelon Salad is a delightful process that combines simplicity with a touch of flair. You’ll quickly find that each step is straightforward and rewarding. Let’s dive into the preparation steps to create this stunning salad!

Preheat your grill to medium heat. This is crucial to achieve those beautiful grill marks on the watermelon. A well-heated grill ensures that the watermelon caramelizes a bit, enhancing its flavor.
Brush the wedges of watermelon with olive oil. This will not only help prevent sticking but will also give the watermelon a slightly crispy exterior. Don’t be shy with the oil, as it adds a nice richness.
Season the watermelon with salt and pepper to taste. This simple seasoning elevates the natural sweetness of the watermelon and prepares it for grilling.
Place the watermelon wedges on the grill and grill for 1 to 2 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them; you want to achieve a nice golden color without turning them mushy.
While the watermelon is grilling, take a medium bowl and toss the arugula with balsamic vinegar. The acid will compliment the sweetness of the watermelon beautifully. Be sure to season with salt and pepper to taste.
Once the watermelon is beautifully grilled, remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly. You want it to be warm but not too hot to handle.
To assemble the salads, take each grilled watermelon wedge and sprinkle with feta or goat cheese. The creaminess of the cheese pairs perfectly with the watermelon’s sweetness.
Top each wedge with the seasoned arugula. This adds freshness and a peppery bite that balances the dish perfectly.
For a finishing touch, feel free to sprinkle a little more cheese on top if you like. A little extra feta never hurt anyone!
Serve immediately while the watermelon is still warm and enjoy the delightful flavors of your Grilled Watermelon Salad!

Things Worth Knowing

Grill Temperature: Always ensure your grill is preheated to medium heat before grilling the watermelon. This helps to caramelize the sugars in the fruit, enhancing its flavor.
Watermelon Selection: Choose a ripe, seedless watermelon for the best flavor. The sweeter the watermelon, the better your salad will taste.
Serving Temperature: This salad is best served warm or at room temperature. The warmth of the grilled watermelon complements the fresh arugula and cheese.
Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality olive oil and cheese for the best taste. Go for fresh feta or goat cheese for a creamier texture.

Tips and Tricks about Grilled Watermelon Salad

There are numerous ways to perfect your Grilled Watermelon Salad. Here are some tips that I’ve gathered along the way to help you create the best version of this dish.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best enjoyed within a day or two.
Freezing: Grilled watermelon doesn’t freeze well, so it’s best to consume it fresh.
Pairing: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It can also be served as a light appetizer.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add nuts or seeds for an added crunch. Toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts work great!
Increase the Greens: For a heartier salad, consider adding other greens like spinach or mixed salad greens.
Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like mint or basil can elevate the salad and add a refreshing twist.

Best Served With

The Grilled Watermelon Salad is versatile and can be served with various dishes or on its own. Here are some fantastic serving ideas:

Grilled Seafood: This salad complements grilled shrimp or fish perfectly, adding a refreshing contrast to the meal.
Summer Barbecues: Serve it during cookouts alongside burgers and hot dogs for a light and refreshing side dish.
Picnics: It’s an excellent choice for picnics, as it can be made ahead of time and served chilled or at room temperature.
Light Lunches: Pair it with a simple protein like grilled chicken or tofu for a quick and healthy lunch.
Seasonal Celebrations: This vibrant salad is perfect for summer gatherings, adding color and freshness to your table.
Storage Tip: If you have leftovers, store them promptly in the fridge, but remember that the watermelon may lose some texture over time.

FAQ

You can serve Grilled Watermelon Salad with grilled chicken, seafood, or a light pasta. It’s perfect for summer barbecues or picnics as a refreshing side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins. The salad’s vibrant flavors enhance any meal and make it a great addition to any gathering.

While you can prepare the individual components ahead of time, it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving. The grilled watermelon tastes best fresh off the grill, and the arugula can wilt if dressed too early. However, you can grill the watermelon and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving to save time.

To store any leftover Grilled Watermelon Salad, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within one to two days. Note that the texture of the watermelon may change slightly over time, but it will still taste delicious!

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of arugula, you can substitute it with spinach, mixed greens, or even kale. Each green will offer a different flavor profile, but they will all work beautifully with the sweet grilled watermelon and cheese.

Conclusion

The Grilled Watermelon Salad brings a refreshing twist to any meal with its unique blend of flavors and textures. It’s a delightful dish that highlights the beauty of summer ingredients and is sure to impress your guests. I encourage you to try this recipe at your next gathering, and watch as it becomes a favorite among family and friends!