Cilantro Lime Grilled Watermelon (Printable)
Smoky grilled watermelon topped with zesty lime and fresh cilantro creates a vibrant summer side dish ready in 16 minutes.
# 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 Make It:
01 - Preheat grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F.
02 - Brush both sides of each watermelon wedge lightly with olive oil and season evenly with sea salt and black pepper.
03 - Place seasoned wedges on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until grill marks appear and fruit begins to caramelize.
04 - Transfer grilled watermelon to a serving platter. Drizzle immediately with lime juice, then sprinkle evenly with lime zest and chopped cilantro. Add chili flakes if desired and serve promptly.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It takes literally 15 minutes from start to finish but looks like something from a fancy restaurant
- The combination of warm caramelized watermelon and bright lime creates this incredible sweet-smoky-tangy flavor profile that people never expect
02 -
- Don't walk away from the grill because watermelon goes from perfect caramelized to mushy really fast
- Letting it rest for just 30 seconds after grilling helps the juices redistribute before you add the lime
03 -
- Pat the watermelon dry with paper towels before oiling, this helps the grill marks form better
- Use a grill basket if you're worried about pieces falling through the grates, though wedges usually hold up fine