smoky, and savory all at once, it’s a vibrant plant-based option perfect for outdoor cookouts, BBQ spreads, or impressing guests with something unexpected. This guide will walk you through making the juiciest grilled watermelon steak—from prepping to plating—with pro tips, substitution ideas, and flavor enhancements. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or new to the BBQ, you’ll love how simple and satisfying this recipe can be. Let’s dive into this colorful and creative dish that brings summer vibes straight to your plate.
Grilled Watermelon Steak Recipe
Grilled Watermelon Steak
Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Basting brush
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 1 large seedless watermelon firm, ripe
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Sea salt to taste
- Cracked black pepper
- Optional: balsamic glaze lime juice, fresh mint
Instructions
- Cut watermelon into 1½-inch thick steaks and remove rind.
- Pat steaks dry with a towel to remove excess moisture.
- Preheat grill or grill pan to high; oil the grates if needed.
- Brush both sides of the watermelon steaks with olive oil.
- Sprinkle with smoked paprika, sea salt, and pepper.
- Grill each side for 3–4 minutes, until grill marks appear and texture softens slightly.
- Serve warm with balsamic glaze, lime juice, or mint if desired.
Notes
Why I Love This Grilled Watermelon Steak
Inspired by Family and Fire-Grilled Summers
Growing up in North Carolina, grilling was part of every summer weekend, but it wasn’t until a visit to a local food truck that I first tasted grilled watermelon steak. It reminded me of summers spent in my grandparents’ garden in Naples, where fresh fruit was our favorite “side dish” for every meal. With a little heat, the sweetness deepened into something rich and smoky. I recreated it for my dad one evening—he called it “the steak of the future.” That moment of surprise and joy is what this recipe is all about.
A Plant-Based BBQ Game Changer
This grilled watermelon steak is a head-turner, but it’s also deeply satisfying and nourishing. It’s gluten-free, vegetarian, and incredibly quick to prep—perfect alongside this gluten-free veggie burger or 30-minute veggie burger recipe. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or just grilling for two, it brings something totally unique to the table.
Why This Grilled Watermelon Steak Is Special
Grilled Watermelon Steak Ingredients & Substitutions
You’ll only need a handful of ingredients. Olive oil adds richness and helps caramelize the melon. Smoked paprika brings a gentle heat and smoky edge, balancing the natural sweetness. For substitutions:
- Try chili powder for a spicier kick.
- Use lime-infused olive oil for citrus brightness.
- Swap balsamic glaze with tahini or vegan feta for a creamy contrast.
You could also serve it with this easy vegetarian breakfast sandwich for a full plant-based brunch.
How to Make This Grilled Watermelon Steak: Step-by-Step Instructions
- Slice the watermelon crosswise into large, steak-like slabs.
- Remove rind and pat dry thoroughly.
- Preheat your grill to high and oil the grates.
- Brush the melon steaks with oil and spices.
- Grill until you see defined grill marks, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Plate with fresh herbs and a drizzle of your favorite glaze or sauce.
These steps take only 10 minutes and work great as part of a quick vegetarian dinner.
Pro Tips, Variations & Nutrition
Possible Pitfalls & Tips
- Too wet? Pat the watermelon dry to help it caramelize.
- Overcooked? Only grill briefly—watermelon breaks down fast.
- Lacks flavor? Add acidity like lime or umami with tamari glaze.
Pair this with easy one-pot vegetarian meals to keep things light yet filling.
Additional Tips & Variations
- Add a brush of maple syrup for a caramelized crust.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and chopped basil for an herbal lift.
- Serve cold leftovers with arugula and feta for a refreshing salad.
Expert Tips & Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving Estimate)
- Calories: ~90
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sugar: 18g (natural)
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
It’s a low-calorie, antioxidant-rich dish that’s naturally hydrating and perfect for hot days. Consider it part of your rotation of seasonal vegetarian lunch ideas.
Grilled Watermelon Steak FAQ
What does watermelon steak taste like?
Grilled watermelon steak is juicy and smoky with a texture similar to a seared tomato or grilled zucchini. The heat intensifies its sweetness, while charred edges add a savory depth that surprises many first-timers.
Why would you grill watermelon?
Grilling watermelon transforms its flavor—bringing out sweetness, reducing wateriness, and creating smoky undertones. It’s a creative way to add contrast and complexity, especially for those looking for something new in vegetarian BBQs.
How to grill watermelon on the barbecue?
Preheat the grill to high, slice the watermelon into thick steaks, pat dry, season with oil and spices, then grill for 3–4 minutes per side. You’ll see caramelization and grill marks when it’s ready.
Can I eat watermelon with beef?
Absolutely. While this dish is plant-based, watermelon pairs surprisingly well with grilled meats due to its sweetness and ability to balance savory flavors. Imagine grilled pineapple with a serious upgrade—this version packs even more punch.
Is cooked watermelon nice?
Yes! Cooking watermelon, especially grilling, brings out deeper flavors. It becomes richer, slightly smoky, and less watery. Many people compare the taste to grilled tomatoes or seared fruit.
How to cut watermelon steak?
Use a large knife to cut the melon into 1½-inch thick slices. Trim away the rind, then cut each slice into rectangles or ovals. A dry surface helps achieve a good grill crust.
Final Thoughts on This Grilled Watermelon Steak
Grilled watermelon steak is more than just a viral trend—it’s a vibrant, refreshing, and surprisingly savory addition to your summer grilling lineup. Whether you’re new to plant-based cooking or a seasoned vegetarian, this dish offers something fun, fast, and unforgettable. It’s versatile enough to be the star of the show or a playful side dish. And the best part? It’s as beautiful as it is delicious. So next time you fire up the grill, skip the usual and let a slice of watermelon take center stage. With just a few ingredients and minutes, you’ll create magic worth sharing.