Grilled Watermelon Feta Mint (Print version)

Sweet watermelon charred on the grill with tangy feta and fresh mint, ideal for summer gatherings.

# Required ingredients:

→ Produce

01 - 1 small seedless watermelon (approximately 3 to 4 pounds), cut into 1-inch thick wedges
02 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
03 - 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, torn
04 - 1 cup arugula or baby greens, optional

→ Dairy

05 - 3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

→ Pantry

06 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
07 - 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or reduction
08 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
09 - Sea salt, to taste

# How to make it:

01 - Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat until fully heated.
02 - Lightly brush the watermelon wedges on both sides with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
03 - Place watermelon wedges on the hot grill and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side until grill marks appear and the fruit is lightly caramelized. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
04 - Cut the grilled watermelon into cubes or triangles and arrange on a large serving platter.
05 - Scatter the sliced red onion, torn mint leaves, and arugula if using over the watermelon on the platter.
06 - Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the salad components.
07 - Drizzle the remaining olive oil and balsamic glaze over the entire salad in a thin, even stream.
08 - Season with freshly ground black pepper and sea salt to taste. Serve immediately while the watermelon is still slightly warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The contrast of warm grilled watermelon against cool, salty feta feels like a small luxury that takes almost no effort.
  • It comes together faster than you can set a table, which means you can actually enjoy your guests instead of hiding in the kitchen.
02 -
  • If your watermelon is too wet and juicy, it'll fall apart on the grill, so look for one that's firm when you press it gently with your thumb.
  • Don't walk away from the grill during those few minutes; the difference between perfectly caramelized and burned is maybe thirty seconds of attention.
03 -
  • Pat your watermelon wedges dry with paper towels before brushing them with oil, otherwise the oil just slides off and your grill marks won't develop properly.
  • Make a balsamic reduction yourself if you can't find the glaze at your store: simmer 1/2 cup regular balsamic vinegar in a small pan for 5 minutes until it coats the back of a spoon, which takes the sharp vinegar taste and turns it into something silky and sweet.
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