Watermelon Steak Juicy Summer (Printable)

Thick grilled watermelon with balsamic marinade, smoked paprika, and fresh mint garnish.

# What You'll Need:

→ Main

01 - 2 thick slices seedless watermelon (about 1 ½ inches thick)

→ Marinade

02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
04 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
05 - ¼ teaspoon sea salt
06 - Pinch of black pepper
07 - ½ teaspoon fresh lime juice

→ Garnish

08 - 2 teaspoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
09 - 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
10 - 1 tablespoon crumbled vegan feta (optional)

# How to Make It:

01 - Pat the watermelon slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, smoked paprika, sea salt, black pepper, and lime juice.
03 - Brush both sides of each watermelon steak with the marinade, ensuring an even coating.
04 - Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
05 - Place the watermelon steaks on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until grill marks appear and the flesh is slightly caramelized, but still firm.
06 - Transfer to serving plates. Sprinkle with chopped mint, flaky sea salt, and vegan feta if using. Serve immediately.

# Expert Hacks:

01 -
  • The grilling transforms watermelon into something savory and substantial that surprises everyone who tries it
  • It comes together in under twenty minutes but looks like something from a restaurant kitchen
02 -
  • Skip the watering step and you will end up with steamed watermelon instead of that gorgeous charred flavor
  • Don't be afraid of the grill marks the darker they get the more complex and savory the flavor becomes
03 -
  • Cut the watermelon slices with a very sharp knife to avoid crushing the delicate flesh
  • Let the finished steaks rest for just one minute before eating to let the flavors settle