Cilantro Lime Grilled Watermelon (Print)
Charred watermelon wedges tossed with lime juice, cilantro, olive oil and sea salt for a bright, summery side.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Produce
01 - 1 small seedless watermelon (about 4 pounds), sliced into 1-inch thick wedges
02 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
03 - 2 limes, zested and juiced
→ Seasonings & Oils
04 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
05 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
06 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
07 - 1/8 teaspoon chili flakes, optional
# How To Make:
01 - Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F.
02 - Using a basting brush, lightly brush both sides of each watermelon wedge with olive oil.
03 - Sprinkle sea salt and freshly ground black pepper evenly over the watermelon wedges.
04 - Arrange the watermelon wedges on the grill. Grill for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until charred grill marks form and fruit is slightly caramelized.
05 - Transfer grilled watermelon to a serving platter. Drizzle immediately with freshly squeezed lime juice, then top with lime zest and chopped cilantro.
06 - For additional flavor, sprinkle with chili flakes if desired.
07 - Serve immediately as a vibrant side dish or light appetizer.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- If you think grilled fruit is odd, wait until you taste the juicy sweetness wrapped in smoky char – it’s a revelation I wish I’d known sooner.
- Each bite turns what seems like an everyday side into a conversation piece (plus, it comes together in minutes).
02 -
- I once left the watermelon too long on the grill, and it collapsed into sad, soggy slices – watch closely, time flies.
- Discovering that lime zest unlocks a whole new dimension convinced me never to skip it again.
03 -
- Don’t be tempted to use thin wedges – they’ll fall apart and won’t pick up enough of that smoky flavor.
- Zest your limes before juicing to avoid a slippery mess (trust me, I’ve tried the other way).