Grilled Watermelon Salad

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Are you tired of the same old salad recipes? Looking for something unique and refreshing to try?

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Grilled Watermelon Salad
Prep
15 min
Cook
15 min
Total
30 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. Place the watermelon half, cut side down, on a cutting board. Remove the rind, so that you have a solid block of melon.

  2. Turn the watermelon block on its side and cut it into 8 squares. Each square should be roughly 3 by 3 inches and 1-inch thick.

  3. Pour the vinegar into a small saucepan and heat it over medium-high heat until it simmers. Let it cook until it thickens and becomes syrupy. Set it aside.

  4. Heat a nonstick grill pan over medium-high heat.

  5. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the watermelon slices, just enough to thinly coat them. Place the coated slices on the hot grill pan.

  6. Grill each side of the watermelon slices for about 2 minutes, or until grill marks appear. Transfer the grilled slices to a plate and season them with salt.

  7. To assemble the salads, start by putting about 1/4 cup of baby arugula on a serving plate.

  8. Place a grilled slice of watermelon in the center of the arugula.

  9. Top the watermelon slice with a tablespoon of crumbled cheese, followed by another 1/4 cup of arugula.

  10. Add another watermelon slice and another tablespoon of cheese.

  11. Repeat the process with the remaining ingredients.

  12. Finish each salad with a very light drizzle of olive oil and balsamic

About this recipe

Are you tired of the same old salad recipes? Looking for something unique and refreshing to try? Look no further than grilled watermelon salad! This delightful dish combines the sweetness of watermelon with the smoky, charred flavors of the grill. It's a perfect balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds begging for more.

Why Grilled Watermelon?

Grilling watermelon might sound strange at first, but trust me, it's a game-changer. The heat from the grill caramelizes the sugars in the watermelon, enhancing its natural sweetness and adding a hint of smokiness. This simple technique transforms a humble fruit into a star ingredient that can take your salads to the next level.

How to Grill Watermelon

Grilling watermelon is easy. Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Slice the watermelon into thick rounds or wedges, leaving the rind intact. Brush both sides of the watermelon slices with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the watermelon on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until grill marks appear. Remove from the grill and let it cool before cutting it into bite-sized pieces for your salad.

Creating the Perfect Grilled Watermelon Salad

Now that you have your grilled watermelon ready, it's time to assemble the salad. Start with a bed of fresh greens, such as arugula or mixed greens, in a large bowl. Add the grilled watermelon pieces on top. For an extra layer of flavor, add some crumbled feta cheese or tangy goat cheese. Sprinkle some fresh herbs like mint or basil for a burst of freshness. Lastly, drizzle some balsamic glaze or a simple vinaigrette dressing over the salad, and toss gently to combine.

Grilled Watermelon Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative with your grilled watermelon salad. You can add some crunchy elements like toasted nuts or seeds for texture. Want to add a protein punch? Top your salad with grilled chicken or shrimp. Craving a touch of sweetness? Throw in some juicy berries or sliced peaches. The possibilities are endless!

Benefits of Grilled Watermelon Salad

Not only is grilled watermelon salad delicious, but it also offers several health benefits. Watermelon is a hydrating fruit that is rich in vitamins A and C. It's also low in calories and packed with antioxidants. By grilling the watermelon, you're adding a unique twist to your salad while still reaping the nutritional rewards.

Conclusion

Grilled watermelon salad is a refreshing and unexpected dish that will elevate your salad game. The charred sweetness of the watermelon combined with the fresh greens and tangy cheese creates a flavor explosion in every bite. So, why not try something new and give this grilled watermelon salad a go?

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a gas grill to grill watermelon?

Absolutely! A gas grill works just as well as a charcoal grill for grilling watermelon.

Can I use a different type of cheese in my grilled watermelon salad?

Of course! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like blue cheese or mozzarella.

Can I make grilled watermelon salad ahead of time?

While it's best to assemble the salad just before serving, you can grill the watermelon ahead of time and keep it refrigerated until ready to use.

Can I grill other fruits besides watermelon?

Absolutely! Grilled peaches, pineapples, and even strawberries make great additions to salads.

Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?

Yes, a grill pan works perfectly fine for grilling watermelon if you don't have access to an outdoor grill.

Can I add some spice to my grilled watermelon salad?

Absolutely! A sprinkle of chili flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce can add a kick to your salad.

Can I serve grilled watermelon salad as a main dish?

While it makes a great side dish, you can definitely enjoy a larger portion of grilled watermelon salad as a light and refreshing main course.

Can I use a different type of dressing for my grilled watermelon salad?

Certainly! Experiment with different dressings like a citrusy vinaigrette or a creamy avocado dressing.

Can I grill the watermelon slices for a longer time?

It's best to grill the watermelon slices for a short time to achieve the perfect balance of caramelization without making them too soft.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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