A Summer Salad Sensation
Watermelon is destined for so much more than just eating fresh. Today, we’re busting two myths: Watermelon can’t be savory, and it can’t be cooked. First, we’ll cook the watermelon with a dash of salt and pepper until we see those coveted char marks. Then, we’ll combine it with an abundance of savory ingredients to create a summery masterpiece. Weird food combination? Yes. So delicious? Also yes. The salty feta and peppery arugula make this grilled watermelon salad really pop. And a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of fresh herbs bring everything together, balancing the sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors in every bite. If you’ve never tried a savory watermelon recipe, you need to get on it!
Grab These Summery Ingredients
This grilled watermelon salad is packed with tons of fresh ingredients! Don’t worry—they’re all super easy to find.
Watermelon: To find the best watermelon, look for one that is “sun-kissed.” It should have a deep green color with a large yellow spot (the spot is where the watermelon sat in the dirt and ripened). The darker the yellow spot, the longer it ripened. (Get our guide to watermelon here!) Arugula: Arugula is my favorite green. It has a lemon-like flavor with peppery notes. Cooking shows always describe arugula like that and it weirdly is incredibly accurate. Feta: This salty cheese can be found cubed or crumbled. Either works! Red Onion: Red onions are typically more pungent than white or yellow onions, making them a great addition to the salty feta and sweet watermelon. Plus, they add a nice color pop! Mint And Basil: Mint and basil add a refreshing flavor profile that screams summer! Fresh herbs absolutely make this watermelon salad. Dijon: Mustard is a sneaky ingredient that packs a flavor punch! It’s also included for the very scientific reason that it will bind the oil and vinegar (more on that in our guide to making oil and vinegar dressing!). Balsamic Vinegar And Olive Oil: The best base for a salad dressing! (You can even spruce it up by making a strawberry balsamic vinaigrette!)
Preparing This Salad Couldn’t Be Easier
Everything for this grilled watermelon and feta salad comes together in 20 minutes. Step 1: Cook The WatermelonCut the watermelon into 1-inch slices and remove the rind. Brush it with 1 Tbsp of olive oil. In a grill pan, saute pan, or on the grill, cook the watermelon at medium/high heat until char lines develop and it lightly browns. Remove it from the heat and chop it into large chunks. Step 2: Assemble The SaladGently combine the watermelon cubes, arugula, feta, red onion, mint, and basil. Whisk the remaining olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon, salt, and pepper. Gently toss the dressing with the salad before serving!
What does Grilling Watermelon do?
Grilling watermelon allows the flavors and sugars to concentrate, allowing them to shine! It’s very similar to cooking squash, except as it cooks, it firms up instead of softening. How cool! Check out my watermelon steak for another great way to enjoy grilled watermelon.
Recipe Tips
Preheat The Grill: If you’re using a grill, ensure it’s nice and hot before adding the watermelon. Preheating ensures you get those perfect char marks without overcooking the fruit. Season It Well: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper before grilling. The seasoning will enhance the watermelon’s natural sweetness and help balance the flavors. Add Extras: For extra texture, add some toasted nuts or seeds (like pine nuts, almonds, and pumpkin seeds) or dried cranberries.
