Fresh Grilled Watermelon Steaks
Grilled watermelon steaks caramelized to smoky sweetness, topped with crumbled feta, fresh mint, and a drizzle of tangy balsamic, perfect for summer BBQs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ripe seedless watermelon, sliced into 1-inch thick steaks
- Extra virgin olive oil, for brushing
- Crumbled feta cheese (preferably block feta)
- Fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped or torn
- Good-quality balsamic vinegar or balsamic reduction
- Flaky sea salt or sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
- Optional: squeeze of fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Slice the watermelon into 1-inch thick steaks, ensuring they are thick enough to hold their shape on the grill.
- Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400°F).
- Lightly brush both sides of each watermelon steak with extra virgin olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the watermelon steaks on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until char marks appear and the flesh softens slightly but holds shape.
- Remove the steaks from the grill and immediately sprinkle with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper if using.
- Generously crumble feta cheese over the grilled watermelon steaks.
- Sprinkle torn or chopped fresh mint leaves on top.
- Drizzle with good-quality balsamic vinegar or balsamic reduction.
- Serve immediately while warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Use a ripe but firm seedless watermelon to hold shape on the grill. Avoid overcooking to prevent mushiness. For a balsamic reduction, simmer ½ cup balsamic vinegar over medium heat for about 10 minutes until thickened. Add feta and mint just before serving to keep freshness. Optional lemon juice can brighten flavors. Vegan versions can substitute feta with plant-based cheese or toasted pine nuts.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 grilled watermelon
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 210
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Carbohydrates: 10
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 3
Keywords: grilled watermelon, watermelon steaks, summer BBQ, feta cheese, fresh mint, balsamic vinegar, easy side dish, healthy summer recipe