Cilantro Lime Grilled Watermelon (Printable)
Smoky grilled watermelon wedges with zesty lime and fresh cilantro make a refreshing summer side.
# 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)
# Directions:
01 - Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
02 - Brush both sides of each watermelon wedge lightly with olive oil. Sprinkle watermelon evenly with sea salt and black pepper.
03 - Place watermelon wedges on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until grill marks appear and the fruit is slightly caramelized.
04 - Remove watermelon from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Immediately drizzle lime juice over the grilled watermelon, then sprinkle with lime zest and chopped cilantro. Add chili flakes if desired.
05 - Serve immediately as a side or light appetizer.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The grill transforms ordinary watermelon into something extraordinary with crispy edges and concentrated sweetness
- It takes literally minutes to make but looks like something from a fancy restaurant
- The combination of smoky sweet tart and herbal hits every single flavor craving at once
02 -
- Watermelon continues to release juice as it grills so dont panic if it looks a little wet
- Room temperature watermelon grills more evenly than cold straight from the fridge
- The lime juice must go on immediately after grilling while the fruit is still hot
03 -
- Choose a watermelon that feels heavy for its size with a creamy yellow spot where it rested on the ground
- Brush the grill grates with oil before starting to prevent any sticking issues