Welcome to the world of BBQ sides! As summer approaches and backyard barbecues become a regular occurrence, it's time to step up your side dish game. And what better way to do that than with a delicious and refreshing grilled watermelon salad? This unique and creative option is sure to impress your guests and add some vibrant flavors to your next BBQ spread. In this article, we'll dive into the details of how to make the perfect grilled watermelon salad, from choosing the right watermelon to creating the perfect dressing. Get ready to elevate your BBQ sides with this mouthwatering recipe!Grilled watermelon salad is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, making it a favorite among BBQ enthusiasts.
This unique and refreshing side dish is sure to impress your guests and become a staple at all your summer gatherings. To make this dish, you will need fresh watermelon, olive oil, salt, pepper, balsamic vinegar, feta cheese, and fresh herbs. These simple ingredients come together to create a burst of flavors that will elevate any BBQ menu. Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill is heating up, slice the watermelon into thick wedges and brush them with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to add a subtle savory element to the sweetness of the watermelon. Place the watermelon wedges on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until grill marks appear.
This quick cooking time ensures that the watermelon maintains its juicy texture while also getting a nice char from the grill. Once done, remove from the grill and let cool for a few minutes. This step is important as it allows the watermelon to cool down slightly and prevents it from becoming too mushy when cutting it into bite-sized pieces. While the watermelon is cooling, mix together balsamic vinegar and olive oil in a small bowl. Toss in some fresh herbs like basil or mint for an extra burst of freshness and flavor. Cut the grilled watermelon into bite-sized pieces and place in a serving dish. Drizzle the balsamic dressing over the top and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese.
The tangy balsamic vinegar, creamy feta cheese, and fresh herbs perfectly balance out the sweetness of the watermelon, creating a well-rounded and delicious dish. Your grilled watermelon salad is now ready to serve! This dish is not only easy to make but also a great option for those who are looking for a healthier alternative to traditional BBQ sides. It's also a great way to incorporate fresh summer produce into your menu.
Choosing the Right Watermelon
When selecting a watermelon for grilling, look for one that is firm and heavy for its size. This indicates that it is ripe and full of sweet flavor.Preheating the Grill
Make sure to preheat your grill to medium-high heat before placing the watermelon on it. This will ensure that it cooks evenly and gets those desired grill marks.Experiment with Different Flavors
While balsamic vinegar and feta cheese make a delicious dressing for this salad, don't be afraid to get creative and try out different flavor combinations.Some popular options include lime juice, honey, and jalapenos.
Don't Overcook
When it comes to grilling watermelon, timing is key. Watermelon cooks quickly, so it's important to keep an eye on it to ensure that it doesn't become overcooked. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture and loss of flavor, taking away from the deliciousness of your grilled watermelon salad. To avoid this, be sure to keep a close watch on your watermelon as it cooks.Tips for Grilling Watermelon
Grilling watermelon may seem intimidating, but it's actually quite easy. Here are some tips to help you get the perfect results every time: 1.Choose a ripe and firm watermelon for grilling. A ripe watermelon will have a deep and vibrant color, and should feel heavy for its size. 2.Cut the watermelon into slices or wedges, about 1 inch thick.This will allow for even cooking and prevent the watermelon from falling through the grill grates. 3.Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You want the grill to be hot enough to create grill marks on the watermelon, but not so hot that it burns quickly. 4.Brush each side of the watermelon slices with a light coating of olive oil.
This will prevent sticking and add a subtle flavor. 5.Grill the watermelon for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear and the watermelon is slightly softened. 6.Remove from the grill and let the watermelon cool for a few minutes before serving. With these simple tips, you'll be able to grill perfect watermelon slices every time.
Serve them on their own or toss them into a refreshing salad for a unique and tasty BBQ side dish.
Don't Overcook
When it comes to grilling watermelon, timing is key. This juicy fruit cooks quickly, so it's important to keep an eye on it. While a perfectly grilled watermelon adds a nice char and smoky flavor to your salad, overcooking can lead to a mushy texture and loss of flavor.Don't Overcook
When it comes to grilling watermelon for your salad, timing is key. The high water content of watermelon causes it to cook quickly, so it's important to keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture and loss of flavor, which can ruin the deliciousness of your grilled watermelon salad. To ensure your watermelon is perfectly grilled, follow these tips:
- Cut the watermelon into thick slices or cubes for easier handling on the grill.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the watermelon on the grill for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until you see grill marks.
- Remove from heat and let it cool before adding it to your salad.
