Cilantro Lime Grilled Watermelon (Printable)

Smoky grilled watermelon wedges finished with zesty lime and fresh cilantro create a refreshing summer side with caramelized sweetness.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Produce

01 - 1 small seedless watermelon (about 4 lbs), cut into 1-inch thick wedges
02 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
03 - 2 limes, zested and juiced

→ Seasonings & Oils

04 - 2 tbsp olive oil
05 - 1/2 tsp sea salt
06 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
07 - 1/8 tsp chili flakes (optional)

# How To Make:

01 - Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
02 - Brush both sides of each watermelon wedge lightly with olive oil.
03 - Sprinkle watermelon evenly with sea salt and black pepper.
04 - Place watermelon wedges on grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until grill marks appear and fruit is slightly caramelized.
05 - Remove from grill and transfer to serving platter. Immediately drizzle with lime juice, then sprinkle with lime zest and chopped cilantro.
06 - Add chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately as a side or light appetizer.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It turns something simple into something people can't stop talking about
  • The lime and cilantro wake up the watermelon's natural sweetness in ways you wouldn't expect
  • Ready in under 20 minutes but looks like you put way more thought into it
02 -
  • Watermelon releases a lot of moisture on the grill, so don't crowd your grates or you'll end up steaming instead of searing
  • The lime juice has to hit the warm fruit or it won't penetrate—that contrast of hot fruit and cold citrus is what makes this work
03 -
  • A pinch of smoked paprika before grilling adds this incredible depth that people can't quite put their finger on
  • Room temperature watermelon grills more evenly than cold from the fridge, so let it sit out for 20 minutes before starting

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