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Spicy grilled watermelon is a perfect treat for a summer party – sweet, spicy, a touch smoky – this grilled fruit is a unique and refreshing treat!
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Easy Recipe for Grilled Watermelon
I love the combination of spicy and sweet in the summer.
There’s nothing better than delicious, crispy fresh watermelon- and pulling it on the grill just pulls out a rich, deeper sweetness- one that goes perfectly with a spicy, lime kick from fruit seasoning!
This is a perfect, easy, and quick side dish- and a great dessert- either on it’s own, or with a little creme fraiche drizzled on top. It’s always a huge crowd pleaser!
These are sure to be a delicious, addictive treat at your parties this summer!
Grilled Watermelon Recipe Ingredients
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- sea salt, to garnish
- 1 watermelon, sliced into triangles
- 3 tbsp Tajin clasico chile lime seasoning
- Creme fraiche, optional
How to Grill Watermelon
- Preheat gas or charcoal grill to medium high.
- Slice watermelon and sparingly sprinkle salt on top.
- Make sure grill grates are clean of any leftover food residue. Generously oil grill grates with coconut oil (i like to add some to a rag and rub over the grill with it, taking extreme care to not burn hands.)
- Add watermelon to grill and sprinkle seasoning on top. After 5 minutes, flip to other side, and sprinkle more seasoning.
- When watermelon has slight char marks and has turned a darker reddish pink, remove and serve immediately.
Spicy Grilled Watermelon Tips
- Choose the Right Watermelon: Pick a firm, seedless watermelon for easy grilling and handling.
- Cut Thick Slices: Slice it into 1-inch thick wedges or rounds to prevent it from falling apart on the grill.
- Season with a Spicy Rub: Brush the watermelon lightly with olive oil, then sprinkle with spices like chili powder, cayenne, smoked paprika, or Tajín for a spicy kick.
- Preheat and Oil the Grill: Ensure the grill is hot and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Quick Grill Time: Grill over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side, just enough to get char marks without overcooking.
- Finish with Sweet or Tangy Toppings: Drizzle with honey, lime juice, or balsamic glaze after grilling for balance, or sprinkle with flaky salt for extra flavor.
How to serve Watermelon Grilled
- As a Salad Base: Cut grilled watermelon into cubes and toss with arugula, feta cheese, mint, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Simple Side Dish: Serve the grilled wedges with a sprinkle of chili powder, lime juice, and fresh cilantro for a bold, spicy-sweet side.
- With Protein: Pair grilled watermelon with grilled shrimp, chicken, or halloumi cheese for a summery main dish.
- Topped with Cheese: Add crumbled goat cheese or feta and a drizzle of honey for a savory-sweet treat.
- In Skewers: Alternate grilled watermelon cubes with chunks of pineapple, halloumi, or grilled shrimp on skewers for an eye-catching appetizer.
- As a Dessert: Brush with a little honey before grilling and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
More Delicious Recipes
If you are looking for more watermelon ideas try watermelon salsa on your tacos, watermelon berry salad or a sip of rosemary watermelon lemonade vodka cocktail. You will love these other delicious recipes:
Click here to see all our side dishes!
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Spicy Grilled Watermelon
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- sea salt, to garnish
- 1 watermelon, sliced into triangles
- 3 tbsp Tajin clasico chile lime seasoning
- Creme fraiche, optional
Instructions
- Preheat gas or charcoal grill to medium high.
- Slice watermelon and sparingly sprinkle salt on top.
- Make sure grill grates are clean of any leftover food residue.
- Generously oil grill grates with coconut oil (i like to add some to a rag and rub over the grill with it, taking extreme care to not burn hands.)
- Add watermelon to grill and sprinkle fruit seasoning on top.
- After 5 minutes, flip to other side, and sprinkle more fruit seasoning.
- When watermelon has slight char marks and has turned a darker reddish pink, remove and serve immediately.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
It looks really strange. I can’t imagine what it will taste like when the sweet watermelon is grilled and seasoned with spicy spices. Maybe I’ll try this one day. Hope it’s delicious.
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You only lightly grill the watermelon to give it a smoky bite and the heat goes very well with refreshing watermelon; hope you do give it a try!