Introduction
Nothing screams summer quite like grilled watermelon salad with feta and mint. This dish is a vibrant, refreshing, and slightly smoky twist on a classic fruit salad, making it perfect for warm-weather gatherings. The natural sweetness of the watermelon is enhanced by grilling, creating a caramelized depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy, tangy feta and the bright, herbaceous mint. A drizzle of olive oil and a touch of sea salt elevate this simple recipe into a gourmet experience.
Not only is this dish visually stunning with its charred watermelon, crumbled white feta, and fresh green mint, but it also delivers a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory flavors. Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ, looking for a light appetizer, or simply craving something unique, this grilled watermelon salad is sure to impress.
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Ingredients & Their Roles
Main Ingredients:
1 small watermelon, cut into thick slices – The star of the dish, bringing natural sweetness and juiciness. Grilling enhances its flavor by adding a smoky, caramelized note.
1 cup crumbled feta cheese – Provides a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet and smoky watermelon.
A handful of fresh mint leaves – Adds a refreshing, aromatic burst that complements both the watermelon and feta.
For Dressing & Seasoning:
2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps caramelize the watermelon on the grill while adding a rich, smooth finish.
1 teaspoon sea salt – Enhances the natural sweetness of the watermelon while balancing the overall flavor profile.
½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a slight peppery kick for complexity.
1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional) – Drizzling balsamic glaze over the salad enhances its sweetness and acidity, making the flavors pop.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Watermelon
Cut the watermelon into thick slices (about 1-inch thick). You can leave the rind on for easier handling or remove it for a more refined presentation.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Grill the Watermelon
Brush each watermelon slice with olive oil on both sides.
Place the slices on the hot grill and cook for 2 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the edges begin to caramelize. Avoid overcooking, as the watermelon can become too mushy.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Transfer the grilled watermelon to a serving platter.
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese generously over the top.
Scatter fresh mint leaves for a burst of aroma and color.
Season with sea salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired for added depth and tanginess.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Serve immediately while the watermelon is still slightly warm, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Why This Recipe Is a Hit
✅ Quick & Easy – Takes less than 15 minutes to prepare.
✅ Perfect Summer Dish – Light, hydrating, and refreshing.
✅ Unique Flavor Combination – The sweet, smoky, salty, and tangy elements create a harmonious bite.
✅ Visually Stunning – Bright red watermelon, creamy white feta, and vibrant green mint make this a showstopper.
✅ Healthy & Nutritious – Watermelon is packed with hydrating properties, while feta adds protein and calcium.
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Pro Tips for the Best Grilled Watermelon Salad
✔ Choose a ripe but firm watermelon – Overripe watermelons can become too soft when grilled.
✔ Don’t over-grill – Keep grilling time short to avoid mushiness.
✔ Use high-quality feta – Authentic Greek feta has the best creamy and tangy balance.
✔ Chill the feta before adding it – This keeps it from melting into the warm watermelon.
✔ Add nuts for crunch – A handful of toasted almonds or pistachios can elevate the texture.
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Serving Suggestions
This grilled watermelon salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some delicious ways to serve it:
With grilled meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp for a complete summer meal.
As a side for BBQs: A perfect complement to burgers, hot dogs, and BBQ ribs.
With a glass of chilled wine: Try it with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Rosé.
On top of arugula or mixed greens: Turn it into a full salad with a lemon-honey vinaigrette.
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Final Thoughts
If you're looking for an easy, unique, and incredibly flavorful dish that captures the essence of summer, this Grilled Watermelon Salad with Feta and Mint is your answer. Its sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors make it an irresistible crowd-pleaser, and the simple preparation means you can whip it up in minutes.
Try this r
ecipe for your next gathering, and watch as your guests fall in love with this unexpected yet delightful combination!
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