Quick-Grilled Watermelon Wedges (Dessert or Side Dish)
Grilled watermelon is the summer side (or dessert) you didn’t know you needed. With just a quick sear, this juicy fruit transforms into something super craveable—sweet, slightly smoky, and ready for toppings! Serve it up savory with feta, lime, and herbs as a refreshing side dish, or go sweet with ice cream and mint for a light, feel-good treat. It’s simple, stunning, and guaranteed to steal the show at your next cookout.
It’s a little unexpected, a lot of fun, and completely customizable depending on your mood. Feeling savory? Add feta, lime, and fresh herbs. Want something more indulgent? A scoop of vanilla ice cream and chocolate shavings takes it into dessert territory. However you top it, grilled watermelon adds unique flair to a summertime spread.
Here’s what makes it a summer favorite
- Smoky meets juicy: Grilling gives the watermelon an irresistible char while locking in its natural sweetness.
- Serve-it-your-way versatility: It plays nice with bold, savory toppings or sweet, dessert-style add-ons.
- Simple and speedy: Minimal ingredients, a few minutes on the grill, and you’re done.
- Packed with feel-good perks: Loaded with water, fiber, and antioxidants like lycopene—great for hydration and skin health.
As a registered dietitian and longtime produce enthusiast, I love showing people that fruits and veggies can steal the show—especially when you think out of the box. Watermelon is hydrating, low in calories, and rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that may help support heart health and protect skin from sun damage. Plus, it looks gorgeous on a platter (hello, cookout centerpiece!).
If you’re a fan of grilling fruit, you’ll also love my Grilled Pineapple à la Mode, Grilled Peach Melba, and Grilled Peach-Pecan Salad—each one is bursting with flavor and warm weather vibes.
This recipe was also featured on TODAY.com!
Try my Watermelon Caprese Salad!
Quick-Grilled Watermelon Wedges (Dessert or Side Dish)
Ingredients
For the grilled watermelon
- ¼ seedless watermelon*, cut into 1-inch-thick wedges or slabs (rind on for easy handling)
- Olive oil spray or a light brush of olive oil
- Light sprinkle of Kosher salt
Savory topping ideas
- Crumbled feta
- Chopped cilantro
- Toasted pepitas or chopped pistachios
- Fresh lime juice and lime zest
- Chili powder, cayenne, or tajin
Sweet topping ideas
- Vanilla ice cream
- Vanilla Greek yogurt
- Fresh mint leaves
- Mini chocolate chips or shaved dark chocolate
Instructions
Prep the watermelon:
- Slice the watermelon into thick wedges or slabs, keeping the rind on so they’re easy to flip on the grill. Lightly spritz or brush both sides with olive oil, then sprinkle with a pinch of kosher salt.
Grill it up:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the watermelon slices directly on the grates and grill for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until gentle grill marks appear. Don’t overdo it—you want a light char and tender texture, not mush.
Finish and serve:
- Transfer the grilled watermelon to a serving platter. Add your favorite toppings:
- For a savory twist, go with feta, herbs, pepitas, and a pop of citrus, zest and spice.
- For a sweet treat, pair with ice cream (or vanilla Greek yogurt) and chocolate.
- Serve warm or at room temp and enjoy!
