When you think of Watermelon you think of summer bbqs, parties and warm weather. You really could call Watermelon the unofficial fruit of summer, best thing is everyone loves it! From the kids to the grandparents you wont find many people who turn down a Watermelon treat!
As summer is in full swing I thought it would be a helpful resource to put our top 10 list of Watermelon recipes that we enjoy each and every summer (and spring for that matter)
When picking our Top 10 we wanted to bring you a variety of recipes, so we have included smoothies, cocktails, sweets, salads and appetizers! Watermelon is a suprisingly versatile fruit that can be used in a broad range of recipe styles.
Try them all! they are so refreshing and perfect for those balmy summer nights.
Picking a Ripe Watermelon is Key!
Before we plunge into the recipes I thought it owuld be a good idea to make sure you get most curcial thing correct, picking a delicious ripe watermelon thats going to be easy to work with.
Here’s how you can make sure you pick a ripe watermelon:
- Check the Field Spot: Look for the creamy yellow spot, known as the field spot. This is where the watermelon sat on the ground. A yellow field spot indicates the watermelon ripened in the sun, while a white or green spot suggests it was picked too early.
- Inspect the Skin: The skin of the watermelon should be dull, not shiny. Shiny skin usually means the fruit is underripe.
- Tap Test: Give the watermelon a light tap. A ripe watermelon will produce a deep, hollow sound, indicating that it’s full of water and ripe. An underripe or overripe one will sound dull.
- Feel the Weight: A ripe watermelon should feel heavy for its size, as it is full of water. Compare the weight of similar-sized watermelons to find the heaviest one.
- Examine the Shape: Look for a symmetrical watermelon with a uniform shape. Irregularities like bumps or flat sides can indicate it grew unevenly, affecting its ripeness and texture.
- Check the Stem: If the watermelon still has a bit of the stem attached, it should be brown and dry. A green stem suggests the watermelon was picked too early.
- Look for Sugar Spots and Webbing: Brown rough patches or webbing on the surface are signs that the watermelon is sweet. These are caused by sugar seeping out as the fruit ripened.
Any left over watermelon can be kept in an air tight container in your fridge.
Now you are armed with a juicy ripe Watermelon, lets get to the recipes 🙂
As I mentioned before we wanted to bring you a selection of recipes to try this summer. These represent our personal favorites and range from cocktails to cake!
The recipes are prefect for summer BBQ’s are very easy and quick to make and for the most part are extremly healthy as well, not to mention refreshing and asthetically pleasing on the eye.
We hope you enjoy them as much as we do!
Our Top 10 Watermelon Recipes
1. Easy Watermelon Slushie Recipe
Beat the heat with a refreshing and easy-to-make watermelon slushie! This delightful drink is perfect for hot summer days, BBQs, or simply as a cool treat. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious and hydrating slushie in no time. Follow this recipe to enjoy a sweet, icy beverage that’s bursting with the natural flavors of fresh watermelon.
The Easy Watermelon Slushie is a refreshing and simple drink perfect for hot summer days or whenever you need a cool, hydrating treat. This slushie recipe takes advantage of the natural sweetness and high water content of watermelon, making it a healthy and delicious choice for both kids and adults.
To make this slushie, you will need fresh watermelon, lime juice, and ice. Start by cutting the watermelon into chunks and removing any seeds. Place the watermelon chunks in a blender along with the juice of one lime, which adds a zesty tang to balance the sweetness of the fruit. Add a generous amount of ice to the blender and blend until the mixture is smooth and frosty.
Pour the slushie into glasses and serve immediately. For an extra touch, you can garnish with a slice of lime or a small wedge of watermelon. The result is a vibrant, pink slushie that is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and nutrients.
This Easy Watermelon Slushie is a quick and delightful way to stay cool and hydrated. Its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it an ideal choice for a refreshing beverage that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
2. Watermelon and Feta Salad
Watermelon Feta Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that perfectly encapsulates the flavors of summer. This salad combines the sweetness of juicy watermelon with the savory tang of feta cheese, creating a delightful contrast that’s perfect for hot days. Ideal for BBQs and gatherings, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a casual picnic or a fancy dinner party, this salad is sure to impress.
Watermelon Feta Salad combines the sweetness of watermelon with the salty tang of feta cheese, creating a perfect balance of flavors. This salad is an ideal choice for summer meals, picnics, or as a light side dish that can complement a variety of main courses.
To prepare this salad, you will need fresh watermelon, feta cheese, mint leaves, red onion, and a simple dressing made of olive oil, lime juice, and a touch of salt and pepper. Begin by cutting the watermelon into bite-sized cubes and placing them in a large salad bowl. Crumble the feta cheese over the watermelon, and add thinly sliced red onion for a bit of sharpness.
Next, finely chop the fresh mint leaves and sprinkle them over the salad. The mint adds a refreshing and aromatic note that enhances the overall flavor. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
Serve the Watermelon Feta Salad immediately, or chill it in the refrigerator for a short time to let the flavors meld. This salad is a beautiful blend of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors, with the fresh mint and lime dressing adding a zesty finish. It’s a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
3. Watermelon Smoothie Recipe
A watermelon smoothie is the perfect blend of hydration and nutrition, making it an excellent choice for a quick breakfast or a refreshing snack. This easy-to-make smoothie is packed with vitamins and is incredibly satisfying. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious and creamy watermelon smoothie in no time. Follow this recipe to enjoy a cool, fruity delight!
This Smoothie is a refreshing and hydrating drink perfect for hot summer days or as a healthy snack any time of the year. This smoothie takes advantage of the natural sweetness and high water content of watermelon, making it a light and delicious option that’s also packed with vitamins.
To make this smoothie, you will need fresh watermelon, Greek yogurt, a banana, and a touch of honey. Start by cutting the watermelon into chunks and removing any seeds. Place the watermelon chunks in a blender along with a ripe banana, which adds creaminess and additional natural sweetness to the smoothie. Add a scoop of Greek yogurt for a creamy texture and a boost of protein.
If you like your smoothies a bit sweeter, you can add a teaspoon of honey. Blend all the ingredients until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a colder, thicker smoothie, you can also add a handful of ice cubes or use frozen banana slices.
Pour the watermelon smoothie into glasses and serve immediately. This vibrant, pink smoothie is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect way to start your day or recharge after a workout.
The Watermelon Smoothie is a simple, quick, and healthy beverage that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Its refreshing flavor and smooth texture make it an excellent choice for staying hydrated and energized, especially during the warmer months.
4. Watermelon Margarita Recipe
A refreshing and delicious Watermelon Margarita, perfect for cooling down on a hot summer day. Easy to make and great for any gathering.
The Watermelon Margarita is a refreshing and vibrant twist on the classic margarita, perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion that calls for a cool, fruity drink. This cocktail combines the sweet, juicy flavor of watermelon with the tangy bite of lime and the smoothness of tequila, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
To make this watermelon margarita, you’ll need fresh watermelon, silver tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and a touch of agave syrup. Start by cutting the watermelon into chunks and blending them until smooth. Strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve to remove any pulp, leaving you with smooth watermelon juice.
In a cocktail shaker, combine the watermelon juice, tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and a bit of agave syrup for sweetness. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled. Rim your margarita glasses with salt by rubbing a lime wedge around the rim and dipping it into coarse salt.
Pour the watermelon margarita into the prepared glasses over ice. For garnish, add a small wedge of watermelon or a lime wheel on the rim of the glass. This adds a festive touch and enhances the presentation.
The Watermelon Margarita is a refreshing and colorful cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a hot day. Its combination of sweet watermelon, tangy lime, and smooth tequila makes it a crowd-pleaser that can easily elevate any summer party or casual gathering.
5. Watermelon Mojito
A Watermelon Mojito Cocktail is a refreshing twist on the classic mojito, perfect for hot summer days. Combining the sweetness of ripe watermelon with the zesty tang of lime and the cool freshness of mint, this cocktail is both hydrating and delicious. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or just relaxing by the pool, this drink is sure to impress.
The Watermelon Mojito is a refreshing and vibrant cocktail that brings a fruity twist to the classic mojito, making it perfect for summer gatherings or a relaxing afternoon by the pool. This drink combines the sweet and juicy flavor of watermelon with the refreshing taste of mint and lime, complemented by the smoothness of rum.
To make a Watermelon Mojito, you will need fresh watermelon, fresh mint leaves, lime juice, white rum, simple syrup, and club soda. Begin by cutting the watermelon into chunks and blending it until smooth. Strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve to remove any pulp, leaving you with smooth watermelon juice.
In a glass, muddle a handful of fresh mint leaves with lime juice and simple syrup. This helps to release the mint’s natural oils and infuse the drink with its fresh flavor. Fill the glass with ice, then add the watermelon juice and white rum. Top off the drink with a splash of club soda and stir gently to combine.
Garnish the mojito with a sprig of mint and a small wedge of watermelon or a lime wheel for a festive touch. The result is a beautifully pink cocktail that is both visually appealing and deliciously refreshing.
The Watermelon Mojito is a delightful and easy-to-make cocktail that captures the essence of summer. Its combination of sweet watermelon, tangy lime, and refreshing mint makes it an ideal choice for any warm-weather occasion, ensuring it will be a hit with your guests.
6. Fresh Watermelon Cake
The Fresh Watermelon Cake is a unique and healthy dessert that is both visually stunning and deliciously refreshing, perfect for summer celebrations or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a creative twist on traditional cake. This “cake” uses a whole watermelon as the base, decorated with a variety of fresh fruits and a light whipped cream frosting.
To make this Fresh Watermelon Cake, start by selecting a seedless watermelon. Cut off the ends and remove the rind, shaping the watermelon into a cylindrical cake form. Place the watermelon on a serving platter.
In a separate bowl, prepare the whipped cream frosting by whipping heavy cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla extract until it forms stiff peaks. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the watermelon, covering it completely.
Next, decorate the watermelon cake with an assortment of fresh fruits such as berries, kiwi slices, and grapes. You can get creative with your design, arranging the fruits in patterns or simply scattering them across the top and sides of the cake.
For an added touch, you can sprinkle shredded coconut or chopped nuts over the top. The result is a beautiful and refreshing cake that combines the natural sweetness of watermelon with the rich creaminess of whipped cream and the vibrant flavors of fresh fruit.
The Fresh Watermelon Cake is a delightful and healthy dessert option that is sure to be a hit at any summer gathering. It’s easy to make, visually appealing, and offers a refreshing alternative to traditional cakes, making it a perfect choice for hot weather celebrations.
7. Watermelon and Goat Cheese Appetizer
The Watermelon and Goat Cheese Appetizer is a refreshing and elegant starter that pairs the sweet, juicy flavor of watermelon with the creamy, tangy taste of goat cheese. This simple yet sophisticated appetizer is perfect for summer gatherings, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that will impress your guests.
To prepare this appetizer, you will need fresh watermelon, goat cheese, fresh mint leaves, balsamic glaze, and a bit of salt and pepper. Start by cutting the watermelon into bite-sized cubes. Make sure the cubes are uniform in size for a neat presentation.
Place a small dollop of goat cheese on top of each watermelon cube. The creamy goat cheese complements the sweet watermelon beautifully, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Next, finely chop the fresh mint leaves and sprinkle them over the watermelon and goat cheese.
Drizzle a light balsamic glaze over the assembled bites for a touch of acidity and sweetness. Season lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Arrange the watermelon and goat cheese bites on a serving platter for a visually appealing presentation.
The Watermelon and Goat Cheese Appetizer is not only easy to make but also a refreshing and tasty option that can elevate any summer party or gathering. Its combination of sweet, savory, and tangy elements makes it a crowd-pleasing dish that is sure to be enjoyed by all.
8. Watermelon Pizza
Watermelon Pizza is a fun and healthy treat that’s perfect for hot summer days and a great way to get kids excited about eating fruit. This simple and colorful dish uses a slice of watermelon as the “crust” and is topped with a variety of fresh fruits and optional extras like yogurt or nuts, making it a refreshing and nutritious snack or dessert.
To make Watermelon Pizza, you will need a large, seedless watermelon, a variety of fresh fruits (such as berries, kiwi, and grapes), yogurt, and optional toppings like shredded coconut, honey, or chopped nuts. Start by cutting the watermelon into thick, round slices, about one inch thick, and lay them flat on a cutting board.
Spread a thin layer of yogurt over the top of each watermelon slice. This acts as the “sauce” and adds a creamy texture that pairs well with the juicy watermelon. Next, arrange the fresh fruits on top of the yogurt layer. You can get creative with your designs, making patterns or simply scattering the fruits across the surface.
For added flavor and texture, sprinkle some shredded coconut or chopped nuts over the top. You can also drizzle a bit of honey for extra sweetness. Once your Watermelon Pizza is decorated to your liking, cut it into wedges like a traditional pizza.
Serve the Watermelon Pizza immediately to keep it fresh and vibrant. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with vitamins and hydration, making it an excellent choice for a healthy snack or a fun addition to any summer party or picnic.
9. Watermelon Salsa Recipe
Watermelon Salsa is a refreshing and colorful twist on traditional salsa, perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a light snack. This vibrant dish combines the sweetness of watermelon with the tanginess of lime and the heat of jalapeño, creating a delicious and versatile condiment that pairs well with chips, grilled meats, or seafood.
To make Watermelon Salsa, you’ll need fresh watermelon, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and a bit of salt. Start by dicing the watermelon, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion into small, uniform pieces. For the jalapeño, remove the seeds and finely chop it, adjusting the amount based on your preferred level of heat.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced watermelon, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and jalapeño. Chop the cilantro and add it to the bowl. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture and sprinkle with salt. Gently toss all the ingredients together until they are well mixed and evenly coated with the lime juice.
Let the salsa sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve the Watermelon Salsa with tortilla chips, or use it as a topping for grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp. Its refreshing and slightly spicy flavor profile makes it a perfect complement to a variety of dishes.
Watermelon Salsa is a delightful and healthy option that brings a burst of freshness and color to any meal. It’s easy to prepare and sure to be a hit at your next summer gathering, offering a unique and tasty alternative to traditional salsas.
10. Homemade Watemelon Lemonade
Watermelon Lemonade is a delightful and refreshing drink that’s perfect for quenching your thirst on hot summer days. This beverage combines the juicy sweetness of watermelon with the tangy zest of lemons, creating a wonderfully balanced and hydrating drink that both kids and adults will love.
To make Watermelon Lemonade, you’ll need fresh watermelon, lemons, water, and a bit of sugar or honey to taste. Start by cutting the watermelon into chunks and removing any seeds. Place the watermelon chunks in a blender and blend until smooth. Strain the watermelon puree through a fine mesh sieve into a large pitcher to remove any pulp, leaving you with smooth watermelon juice.
Next, juice the lemons and add the fresh lemon juice to the pitcher with the watermelon juice. Depending on your taste preference and the sweetness of the watermelon, you can add a bit of sugar or honey to the mixture, stirring until it dissolves completely. Add cold water to the pitcher, adjusting the amount based on how strong or diluted you prefer your lemonade.
Stir the mixture well and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld and the lemonade to chill. When ready to serve, pour the Watermelon Lemonade into glasses filled with ice. For an extra touch, garnish with a slice of lemon or a small wedge of watermelon on the rim of the glass.
This Watermelon Lemonade is a simple yet delicious drink that is sure to be a hit at any summer gathering. Its vibrant color and refreshing taste make it a perfect choice for barbecues, picnics, or just relaxing by the pool. Enjoy this hydrating and flavorful beverage as a delightful way to stay cool in the heat.
Experiment with Your Own Creations
Watermelon is not only delicious and hydrating but also incredibly versatile. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try your own unique recipes. Whether it’s a new twist on a cocktail, a savory dish, or even a dessert, the possibilities are endless. Share your watermelon creations with us in the comments below or on social media. We’d love to see how you enjoy this summer favorite in your own way! Happy cooking and stay cool this summer!
