Alongside the summer sun, one of our favorite treats is fresh, juicy watermelon, which refreshes not only on its own. If you want to break away from the usual way of eating watermelon and crave something uniquely delicious, you’re in luck—there are plenty of ways to use this fruit as the star ingredient in a variety of dishes.
Watermelon & Feta Salad
The fresh, subtly sweet watermelon meets salty, creamy feta in a flavor bomb that deserves to be the star of any summer meal. It’s super easy to make: toss diced watermelon with crumbled feta and a few black olives. Add some fresh mint or basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil to boost the flavors. This vibrant mix will delight both your taste buds and your eyes.
Watermelon Smoothie
If you love cool drinks, a creamy watermelon smoothie is a true gift. All you need is some sliced watermelon, a splash of yogurt or almond milk, and a touch of honey or agave syrup for sweetness. Blend it all up for a refreshing smoothie that kickstarts your day or revives you after any tiring activity. For a twist, add a splash of lime juice or a pinch of ginger powder.
Watermelon Popsicles
When the heat hits, ice cream is our best friend—and homemade watermelon popsicles are surprisingly simple to make. Blend watermelon chunks with a little sugar and lemon juice, pour into popsicle molds, and freeze for a few hours. The result is an incredibly refreshing fruity treat that cools you down even on the hottest days. Try adding raspberry pieces or fresh mint for a fun twist.
Watermelon Salsa
Swap the usual tomato salsa for a zesty watermelon version that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or tortilla chips. Combine finely chopped watermelon with diced onion, jalapeño, a splash of lime juice, and fresh cilantro. Let the salsa chill in the fridge for a few hours to let the flavors meld. This versatile side will take your favorite dishes to an exciting new level.
Grilled Watermelon
It might sound surprising, but grilled watermelon is a truly special dish. Lightly brush watermelon slices with olive oil and grill quickly until they get faint brown grill marks. Season with salt and pepper, and toss with some crumbled feta for a dish that’s both unexpected and impressive.
Watermelon Cocktail
Last but not least, raise a glass to a refreshing watermelon cocktail—perfect for a friendly get-together or dinner. Blend fresh watermelon puree with lemonade, add a splash of vodka or gin, and top off with sparkling water. Serve over ice with lemon slices and fresh mint leaves for a cocktail that’s sure to be the highlight of the evening.
