Nothing says summer quite like a thick, juicy wedge of watermelon. While we’re perfectly content snacking on the sweet fruit in all its untouched glory, we’re always on the lookout for creative ways to work it into another meal. Find inspiration with five fun recipes for enjoying the season’s star fruit in cocktails, salads, soups, and more.
1. Watermelon Cocktail
What better way to celebrate summer than with a cool, refreshing cocktail infused with fresh fruit? Kick back and relax with our spiced-up take on a classic watermelon cocktail made with chili powder and lime juice.
2. Watermelon Salad
Fruit is a welcome addition to any salad, especially when it’s been infused with the smoky flavor of the grill. Our favorite watermelon salad recipe, contributed by Stone Barns’ executive chef Dan Barber, features grilled watermelon with heirloom tomatoes, chopped fresh basil, tangy Greek-style yogurt, and edible flowers for garnish.
3. Watermelon Soup
Sweet meets savory when fruit enters the chilled soup equation, and we can think of not better way to beat the heat than a refreshing bowl of chilled watermelon soup. Top off your bowl with a drizzle of your favorite olive oil.
4. Watermelonade
While lemonade is the indisputable beverage of choice on hot days, we like to kick up the fresh fruit flavor with a twist on the classic. Our recipe for watermelonade is made with just four ingredients and adds a pop of flavor and color to your summer spread.
5. Watermelon Sundae
When it comes to ice cream toppings, watermelon may not be the first fruit option on your list. But the juicy melon is the ultimate addition to your scoop of choice. Need inspiration? Try our simple recipe starring rich ricotta ice cream, watermelon cubes, and bittersweet chocolate shavings.
What’s your favorite way to add watermelon to a meal?
You are so right! Love enjoying crisp cool watermelon on a hot summers day! I love the recipes you’ve shared. I love eating it as is or if I’m getting a little crazy I’ll freeze a slice and eat it as a “pop”.
What about pickled watermelon rind? The first person to make it was probably the most frugal person on the planet, but it’s an old-timey favorite. And the pickling juice makes a great spicy flavoring for a cocktail, too.
I make the classic melon, cuke, mint, and feta salad with quinoa. Cut melon and cuke into small cubes, use plenty of fresh mint, dress the whole thing with olive oil, lime juice and zest and a bit of agave nectar for a lovely healthy summer side dish!
I eat it cold, cubed, for breakfast. I also love to make melon cosmos, (sub watermelon for pomegranate), and watermelon margaritas are divine! I like to pair it with feta cheese – sounds funky but it’s good. Hands down, it’s my favorite fruit.