Grilled Watermelon with Feta (Print Version)

Summer salad with grilled watermelon, feta cheese, fresh mint, and a balsamic drizzle for vibrant flavors.

# Ingredients List:

→ Produce

01 - 1 small seedless watermelon (about 3 to 4 pounds), cut into 1-inch thick wedges
02 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
03 - 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, torn
04 - 1 cup arugula or baby greens, optional

→ Dairy

05 - 3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

→ Pantry

06 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
07 - 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or reduction
08 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
09 - Sea salt, to taste

# Directions:

01 - Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat
02 - Lightly brush the watermelon wedges on both sides with 1 tablespoon of olive oil
03 - Grill watermelon for 1 to 2 minutes per side, just until grill marks appear and the fruit is slightly caramelized. Remove from grill and let cool slightly
04 - Cut the grilled watermelon into cubes or triangles and arrange on a large platter
05 - Scatter the red onion, mint leaves, and arugula over the watermelon. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese
06 - Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and balsamic glaze. Season with freshly ground black pepper and sea salt to taste. Serve immediately

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Quick and easy with only 15 minutes of prep and 5 minutes of cooking time
  • Perfect balance of sweet grilled watermelon, salty feta, and fresh mint
  • Vegetarian and naturally gluten-free, accommodating various dietary needs
  • Impressive presentation that looks restaurant-quality but requires minimal effort
  • Ideal for summer entertaining, from casual barbecues to elegant dinner parties
  • The grilling process caramelizes the watermelon's natural sugars, adding depth and complexity
02 -
  • Use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor—it makes a noticeable difference
  • Don't over-grill the watermelon; 1–2 minutes per side is enough to get char marks without making it mushy
  • Tear the mint leaves by hand rather than chopping to prevent bruising and browning
  • Soak the sliced red onion in cold water for 10 minutes before using to mellow its sharpness
  • For a more intense flavor, reduce the balsamic glaze yourself by simmering until it coats the back of a spoon
  • Keep leftover watermelon cubes separate from the dressed salad for better texture if storing
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