Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the summer sun hovers lazily in the sky, there’s a certain magic that happens when fruit meets fire. Enter Grilled Watermelon with Spicy Corn and Feta Topping—a dish that redefines summer dining with its playful twist. The smoky char from the grill enhances the watermelon’s inherent sweetness, while a zesty mix of fresh corn, creamy feta, and ripe avocado creates a symphony of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds. Not only is this vibrant side dish easy to whip up, but it’s also a stunning centerpiece for BBQs and cookouts, making it a sure-fire crowd-pleaser. So, are you ready to turn up the heat and impress your guests with this delightful summer sensation? Let’s dive in! Why is Grilled Watermelon a Must-Try? Unique Flavor Fusion: The combination of grilled watermelon and spicy toppings creates an unforgettable flavor experience unlike any typical summer dish. Simplicity and Ease: This recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for impromptu gatherings or busy weeknights. Versatile Topping Options: Feel free to customize the toppings to suit your taste; think Avocado Bacon Grilled Cheese for a rich twist or Refreshing Watermelon Berry for something lighter. Vibrant Colors: The bright assembly will not only be a treat for your palate but also for the eyes, making it an ideal choice for colorful summer plates. Healthy and Guilt-Free: Low in calories yet packed with vitamins, it’s a delicious way to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying summer festivities. Crowd Pleaser: It’s not just food; it’s a lively conversation starter, guaranteed to bring smiles around your table! Grilled Watermelon Ingredients • Explore this unique take on summer fruit! For the Watermelon Watermelon Wedges – Use 6 wedges, about 1.5 inches thick, to provide natural sweetness and moisture. For the Topping Raw Corn Kernels – Use 1½ cups for a sweet and crunchy bite; cooked corn can work too if needed. Red Onion – Use ½ cup diced for an added sharpness; swap with green onions for a milder flavor. Red Bell Pepper – Use ½ cup diced for a pop of color and sweetness; yellow or orange bell pepper is a great alternative. Garlic – Use 1 clove minced to enhance depth of flavor; it can be omitted for a milder taste. Sea Salt – Use a heaping ¼ teaspoon to elevate all the flavors; adjust to personal preference. Tabasco Green Sauce – Use 4 teaspoons for a spicy tang; feel free to substitute with lime juice and diced jalapeño for a fresh twist. Feta Cheese – Use ½ cup crumbled for creaminess; goat cheese is a delicious alternative if preferred. Avocado – Use 1 small diced for added richness and healthy fats; it can be omitted for a lighter topping. Mint and/or Basil Leaves – Use generously for a fresh herb kick; totally optional but highly recommended. Lime Wedges – Include for serving and an extra zesty twist. Each ingredient contributes to the deliciousness of your grilled watermelon dish, ensuring a delightful summer experience! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Watermelon with Spicy Corn and Feta Topping Step 1: Prepare the Topping In a medium bowl, combine 1½ cups of raw corn kernels, ½ cup diced red onion, and ½ cup diced red bell pepper. Add 1 minced garlic clove and a heaping ¼ teaspoon of sea salt, followed by 4 teaspoons of Tabasco Green Sauce. Stir well to mix all the ingredients, then cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to meld the flavors while you prepare the grilled watermelon. Step 2: Grill the Watermelon Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the grates with cooking oil to prevent sticking. Once heated, place 6 wedges of watermelon, each about 1.5 inches thick, on the grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, looking for beautiful grill marks and a slight caramelization on the surface, which enhances the watermelon’s natural sweetness. Step 3: Assemble the Dish Once the grilled watermelon has a pleasing char, carefully remove it from the grill and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Place the watermelon onto a serving platter, then top each wedge generously with the chilled corn mixture from the fridge. Sprinkle ½ cup of crumbled feta cheese and 1 small diced avocado evenly across the watermelon, allowing the colors to pop vibrantly. Step 4: Garnish and Serve Finish your grilled watermelon creation by scattering fresh mint or basil leaves over the top for an aromatic touch. Optionally, serve with lime wedges on the side for an added zesty kick. For those who crave extra heat, provide some additional Tabasco Green Sauce for drizzling. Your stunning dish is now ready to impress at any summer gathering! Storage Tips for Grilled Watermelon Fridge: Store any leftover grilled watermelon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The fresh flavors may fade slightly, but it can still be enjoyed cold. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the grilled watermelon in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, though texture may change upon thawing. Reheating: To reheat, microwave the grilled watermelon for about 30 seconds or warm it briefly on a skillet over low heat. Avoid overcooking to maintain the juicy texture. Topping Storage: Keep the topping mixture in a separate container; it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Consider refreshing it with a touch of lime juice before serving on the grilled watermelon. Expert Tips for Grilled Watermelon Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is properly preheated before adding the watermelon; this enhances the smoky flavor and prevents sticking. Watch the Time: Keep a close eye on the watermelon while grilling—2-3 minutes per side is ideal. Overcooking can lead to mushiness. Customize Wisely: Feel free to substitute toppings, but balance flavors carefully. If you go heavy on the spice, lighten up on the creaminess for the perfect grilled watermelon experience. Chill the Topping: Allowing the corn mixture to chill enhances the overall dish. It not only melds the flavors but also provides a refreshing contrast to the warm watermelon. Choose Quality Ingredients: Selecting ripe, fresh watermelon and flavorful herbs will elevate your dish significantly. Fresh ingredients make a world of difference in taste and nutrition! Extra Heat Options: If you prefer an extra kick, consider using diced jalapeños or a spicier hot sauce as your substitute for Tabasco Green Sauce; just be careful to not overpower the dish! What to Serve with Grilled Watermelon with Spicy Corn and Feta Topping As you savor the sweet and smoky flavors of this dish, consider elevating your meal with delightful pairings that will make your summer dining experience unforgettable. Grilled Veggie Skewers: Colorful vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion complement the grilled watermelon’s smoky notes, creating a harmonious BBQ theme. Crispy Tacos: Serve alongside fresh, light tacos filled with grilled fish or black beans, adding a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the juicy watermelon. Quinoa Salad: A fluffy quinoa salad with a citrus vinaigrette enhances the dish’s freshness, rounding out the meal while adding a nutty texture. Chilled Gazpacho: This refreshing cold tomato soup brings a bright, tangy note to your plate, balancing the sweet notes of the grilled watermelon perfectly. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs provides a light, aromatic side that nicely complements the rich flavors of feta and avocado. Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing beverages like homemade lemonade or iced tea offer a thirst-quenching, citrusy accent that uplifts this vibrant meal. Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, serve a scoop of light fruit sorbet to cleanse the palate and sweeten the end of a delightful, fresh dinner. Pairing these delicious options with your grilled watermelon will create a memorable summer feast that celebrates the season’s best flavors! Grilled Watermelon Variations & Substitutions Get ready to unleash your creativity and transform this delightful dish into your own culinary masterpiece! Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the topping for an extra layer of heat that will ignite your taste buds. It offers a refreshing twist that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the watermelon. Vegan Delight: Substitute feta cheese with a vegan cheese alternative for a plant-based rendition. It retains the creamy texture while catering to your dietary preferences. Herb Boost: Experiment with different fresh herbs like cilantro or dill instead of mint or basil. Each herb imparts its unique fragrance and taste, allowing you to discover new flavor profiles. Colorful Peppers: Swap red bell pepper for yellow or orange bell pepper for a visually vibrant dish that maintains that sweet crunch. The variety adds beautiful hues and enhances aesthetic appeal. Zesty Topping: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the assembled dish for a punchy, sweet, and tangy finish. A little goes a long way in elevating the entire flavor experience. Creamy Texture: Try adding a dollop of Greek yogurt on top for a luscious creaminess that complements the grilled sweetness wonderfully. This adds an interesting texture contrast that many will love. Citrus Burst: Replace lime wedges with lemon or grapefruit for serving, giving a different zesty contrast that will surprise your guests and keep them coming back for more. Tropical Twist: Incorporate diced mango or pineapple into the topping for a tropical flair that perfectly complements the grilled watermelon. Sweet, juicy accents create an irresistible summer vibe. Feel free to also serve this stunning dish alongside crispy grilled veggies or a refreshing Grilled Shrimp Bowl—both perfect companions for a sunny BBQ experience! Make Ahead Options These Grilled Watermelon with Spicy Corn and Feta Topping are an absolute boon for meal prep lovers! You can prepare the corn topping (1½ cups of raw corn, diced onion, bell pepper, garlic, salt, and Tabasco) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine all ingredients in a medium bowl, cover, and refrigerate to let the flavors meld beautifully. The watermelon can also be grilled up to 3 days prior; just let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the grilled watermelon briefly on the grill to refresh its flavors, then top with the chilled corn mixture and feta just before enjoying. This way, you’ll have a scrumptious summer dish ready in no time, perfect for those busy weeknights! Grilled Watermelon with Spicy Corn and Feta Topping Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe watermelon? Absolutely! When selecting watermelon, look for a field spot (the area that rested on the ground) that’s creamy yellow, indicating ripeness. Also, it should feel heavy for its size, with a hollow sound when thumped gently. How can I store leftover grilled watermelon? If you have any leftover grilled watermelon, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may diminish slightly, but you can still enjoy it cold as a refreshing snack! Can I freeze grilled watermelon? Yes, you can freeze grilled watermelon! To do this, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, but keep in mind that the texture may become mushy upon thawing. To thaw, simply place in the fridge for a few hours or leave it out at room temperature for a quicker thaw. How can I troubleshoot if my grilled watermelon is too mushy? The key to avoiding mushy grilled watermelon is timing! Grill each wedge for only 2-3 minutes per side to achieve that perfect char without overcooking. If you find yourself with mushy watermelon despite careful grilling, try serving it with firmer toppings, like diced cucumber or crisp herbs, to add texture. Is it safe for pets to have grilled watermelon? Very! Watermelon is safe for dogs in moderation. Just be sure to remove the seeds and rind, as they can be difficult for pets to digest. Check with your vet if you’re unsure, especially if your pet has a specific dietary condition. What can I substitute for Tabasco Green Sauce in the topping? If you’re looking to switch things up, consider using fresh lime juice and diced jalapeños for a tangy and spicy kick. You can adjust the heat level to your liking; feel free to add more or less jalapeño based on your preference! Grilled Watermelon: A Sweet and Smoky Summer Delight Grilled Watermelon is a unique summer dish that combines smoky flavors with a touch of sweetness, perfect for BBQs. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 6 minutes minsTotal Time 26 minutes mins Servings: 6 wedgesCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Watermelon6 wedges Watermelon Wedges About 1.5 inches thick.For the Topping1.5 cups Raw Corn Kernels Cooked corn can work too.0.5 cups Red Onion Diced.0.5 cups Red Bell Pepper Diced.1 clove Garlic Minced.0.25 teaspoons Sea Salt Heaping.4 teaspoons Tabasco Green Sauce Can substitute with lime juice and diced jalapeño.0.5 cups Feta Cheese Crumbled.1 small Avocado Diced.Mint and/or Basil Leaves Generously for garnish.Lime Wedges For serving. Equipment grillmedium bowl Method Prepare the ToppingIn a medium bowl, combine 1½ cups of raw corn kernels, ½ cup diced red onion, and ½ cup diced red bell pepper. Add 1 minced garlic clove and a heaping ¼ teaspoon of sea salt, followed by 4 teaspoons of Tabasco Green Sauce. Stir well, cover, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes.Grill the WatermelonPreheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). Spray the grates with cooking oil. Place 6 wedges of watermelon on the grill and grill for 2-3 minutes per side.Assemble the DishOnce grilled, remove the watermelon and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Place on a serving platter and top each wedge with the chilled corn mixture. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and diced avocado.Garnish and ServeScatter fresh mint or basil leaves over the top. Serve with lime wedges on the side. Nutrition Serving: 1wedgeCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 4gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 0.5mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
