Grilled Watermelon — Yep! Here’s How Can you really grill a watermelon? Well, the answer is yes! We get it, grilling watermelon seems unusual at first, but don’t knock it until you try it. Grilled watermelon is a delicious...
Grilled Watermelon — Yep! Here’s How
Can you really grill a watermelon? Well, the answer is yes! We get it, grilling watermelon seems unusual at first, but don’t knock it until you try it. Grilled watermelon is a delicious and refreshing summer appetizer, we’re sure you and your guests will enjoy. It literally takes mere minutes for the watermelon to take on a smoky flavor and a slightly chewy texture. Plus, grilling gives the watermelon those beloved char marks while still retaining the watermelon’s juiciness.
How to Prepare a Watermelon for the Grill
When preparing grilled watermelon, it is best to slice the watermelon into thick triangles. Be sure to keep the rind intact to help prevent the watermelon from disintegrating on your grill. Here are the quick and easy steps:
Wash the watermelon before cutting it. Be sure the skin or rind is intact.Cut the watermelon into two equal halves across its widest part.Turn the watermelon halves so the flat side is facing down on your counter and slice the halves again so you have four watermelon sections/quarters.Next, cut each quarter into triangles. You should have eight watermelon wedges.Remember you need to keep the rind of the watermelon intact while cutting it into wedges to help ensure they hold up while being flipped and turned on the grill. Otherwise, you may be left with nothing but watermelon mushiness.
Grilling Watermelon
Grilled watermelon takes very little time and effort to put together. Don’t have access to an outdoor grill? Good news! You can grill watermelon on an indoor grill, griddle, even in a cast-iron skillet. Here are the few steps to grilling watermelon: 
Lastly, here are a few tips for success.
Go with smaller watermelons for grilling
If you’re going to grill a watermelon go with one that’s five pounds or less. The smaller sizes work well for grilling and can serve up to six people.
Avoid overcooking
Avoid overcooking your watermelon at all costs. Yes, you want grill marks or a slight char, but avoid cooking it for too long as it can leave your watermelon mushy and with an unpleasant, burnt taste.Versatility on the menu
Serve grilled watermelon as an appetizer or a side dish.Elevate the dish
Add some ice cream and a quick pour of Texas Pepper Jelly Rib Candy over your grilled watermelon to bring it to a whole other level.Storing Leftover Watermelon
Warning! Cooked watermelon doesn’t stay fresh but for a split second, so eat it up as soon as you take it off the grill. To prevent wasting your grilled watermelon, only grill enough for you and your guests.
You can store fresh (cut, ungrilled) watermelon in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Yes, grilling watermelon is a unique way to prepare this summer staple. However, between the charred marks, caramelized sweetness, and unique texture, you may never serve watermelon any other way. We say grab a watermelon, fire up the grill, and let the fun begin!