Cilantro Lime Grilled Watermelon (Printable)
Smoky grilled watermelon wedges drizzled with fresh lime juice and sprinkled with chopped cilantro create a refreshing summer side dish.
# 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 Steps:
01 - Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C).
02 - Brush both sides of each watermelon wedge lightly with olive oil.
03 - Sprinkle watermelon evenly with sea salt and black pepper.
04 - Place watermelon wedges on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until grill marks appear and the fruit is slightly caramelized.
05 - Remove watermelon from the grill and transfer to a serving platter.
06 - Immediately drizzle lime juice over the grilled watermelon, then sprinkle with lime zest and chopped cilantro.
07 - For a kick, add chili flakes if desired.
08 - Serve immediately as a side or light appetizer.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- The contrast between hot grilled fruit and cool fresh lime is absolutely addictive
- It takes minutes to make but looks stunning on a platter
02 -
- Watermelon gets very soft when grilled so use a wide spatula to turn it gently
- Serve it right away because the texture changes as it sits
03 -
- Pat the watermelon dry with paper towels before oiling so it grills instead of steams
- Don't walk away during those three minutes because fruit caramelizes fast