GRILLED WATERMELON SUMMER BLISS

I vividly remember a summer barbecue a few years back. Everyone brought the usual potato salads and burgers, but I wanted to try something different. I decided on a whim to grill some watermelon, pair it with feta, and stack it into a beautiful salad. Let me tell you, the reactions were priceless! People couldn’t believe how the smoky sweetness of the grilled watermelon perfectly complemented the salty, tangy feta. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Grilled Watermelon and Feta Stacked Salads-Summer Bliss you’ll ever make!

Grilled Watermelon and Feta Stacked Salads: The Ultimate Summer Treat

Summer is the season of fresh flavors, vibrant colors, and effortless entertaining. And what could be more summery than juicy watermelon? But have you ever thought about grilling it? Trust me, it’s a game-changer! Grilling watermelon intensifies its sweetness, adds a subtle smoky char, and transforms it into the star of your next barbecue. When paired with creamy, salty feta and a few other fresh ingredients, you get a Grilled Watermelon and Feta Stacked Salads-Summer Bliss that’s both refreshing and sophisticated.

These stacked salads are not only delicious but also visually stunning. They’re perfect for impressing guests at a summer party or simply elevating your weeknight dinner. The combination of sweet, salty, smoky, and fresh flavors is truly irresistible. And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make! So, let’s dive in and discover how to create this summer masterpiece.

Why Grill Watermelon?

Okay, I know what you might be thinking: “Grill watermelon? Is that even a thing?” Yes, my friend, it absolutely is! And it’s a delicious thing at that. Grilling watermelon brings out its natural sugars, caramelizing the surface and giving it a wonderful smoky flavor. The heat also softens the watermelon slightly, creating a unique texture that’s both juicy and tender. It’s a delightful surprise for your taste buds, and it’s a fun way to experiment with your grill.

Think of it like this: you’re taking a familiar summer fruit and giving it a gourmet makeover. It’s like transforming your favorite comfy t-shirt into a stylish, head-turning outfit. The grilled watermelon adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the humble fruit, making it a perfect component for a show-stopping salad.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create your own Grilled Watermelon and Feta Stacked Salads-Summer Bliss:

• Watermelon: Choose a seedless watermelon that feels heavy for its size. This indicates that it’s juicy and ripe.
• Feta Cheese: Opt for a block of feta in brine rather than pre-crumbled. The flavor is much richer and creamier.
• Fresh Mint: Adds a refreshing, aromatic touch.
• Fresh Basil: Complements the watermelon and feta with its sweet, slightly peppery flavor.
• Balsamic Glaze: This is the secret ingredient that ties everything together. It adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
• Olive Oil: For grilling the watermelon. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil.
• Salt and Pepper: To enhance the flavors.
• Optional additions: Arugula, thinly sliced red onion, toasted pine nuts, or a squeeze of lime juice.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Grilling Watermelon Perfection

Ready to get started? Here’s how to make your own Grilled Watermelon and Feta Stacked Salads-Summer Bliss:

1. Prepare the Watermelon: Cut the watermelon into 1-inch thick slices. Then, use a cookie cutter or a knife to cut out rounds or squares. This makes stacking the salads much easier and more visually appealing. Don’t worry about being perfect – rustic shapes are charming too!
2. Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush each watermelon slice with olive oil. This will prevent them from sticking to the grill and help them develop a nice char.
3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to create a nice sear without burning the watermelon.
4. Grill the Watermelon: Place the watermelon slices on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear. The watermelon should be slightly softened but still hold its shape. The aroma will be amazing – a sweet, smoky scent that will make your mouth water.
5. Assemble the Salads: On a serving plate, start with a slice of grilled watermelon. Top with a crumble of feta cheese, a few fresh mint and basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Repeat the layers until you have a beautiful stack.
6. Season and Serve: Season the stacked salads with a pinch of salt and pepper. If desired, add any of the optional ingredients, such as arugula or toasted pine nuts. Serve immediately and enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Success Tips for Perfect Grilled Watermelon and Feta Stacked Salads

Success Tips

• Choose the Right Watermelon: Look for a seedless watermelon that feels heavy for its size. Tap it – it should sound hollow.
• Don’t Overgrill: The goal is to create grill marks and enhance the flavor, not to cook the watermelon to mush. Keep a close eye on it and remove it from the grill as soon as it’s lightly charred.
• Use High-Quality Feta: The feta is a key component of the salad, so choose a good quality block of feta in brine. The flavor will be much better than pre-crumbled feta.
• Balance the Flavors: The balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, which is essential for balancing the flavors. Don’t skip it!
• Get Creative with Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings and herbs. Arugula, red onion, toasted nuts, and a squeeze of lime juice all work well.

Variations and Additions

The beauty of this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas for variations and additions:

• Grilled Watermelon and Halloumi Stacks: Substitute the feta with grilled halloumi cheese for a similar salty, cheesy flavor with a slightly different texture.
• Spicy Grilled Watermelon Salad: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the balsamic glaze for a touch of heat.
• Grilled Watermelon Skewers: Thread grilled watermelon cubes onto skewers with feta and mint leaves for a fun and easy appetizer.
• Grilled Watermelon Pizza: Use a large slice of grilled watermelon as the base for a “pizza” topped with feta, balsamic glaze, and your favorite toppings.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled Watermelon and Feta Stacked Salads are perfect as a light lunch, a refreshing appetizer, or a side dish at a barbecue. They pair well with grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Serve as a starter before a grilled steak or salmon.
• Add to a summer buffet alongside other salads and grilled dishes.
• Pack in a picnic basket for a healthy and delicious lunch on the go.
• Serve with a glass of chilled rosé wine for the ultimate summer indulgence.

Make it a Full Summer Meal

Imagine serving these Grilled Watermelon and Feta Stacked Salads-Summer Bliss alongside other refreshing summer dishes. You could start with a light and zesty Cucumber Salad with Greek Yogurt. The creamy yogurt dressing and cool cucumber would be the perfect complement to the sweetness of the watermelon. Or maybe you’d prefer something with a bit more kick? The Creamy Cucumber Salad with Bacon & Cheese is always a crowd-pleaser. The salty bacon and sharp cheddar add a savory element that pairs surprisingly well with the sweet watermelon. And for a lighter option, you can’t go wrong with a Crunchy, Tangy Cucumber Salad. The crisp cucumbers and tangy vinegar dressing would provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the feta. If you want to keep it simple and classic, then the Creamy Cucumber Salad is your way to go. And don’t forget the Cucumber Caprese Salad. What is better than the Caprese Salad. It is your go to option.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. The possibilities are endless! So, get creative and design your own perfect summer menu.

Health Benefits

Not only are these Grilled Watermelon and Feta Stacked Salads-Summer Bliss delicious, but they’re also packed with health benefits! Watermelon is a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants. Feta cheese provides calcium and protein. And the fresh herbs add even more vitamins and minerals. This salad is a guilt-free way to indulge in a sweet and savory treat.

Watermelon is also incredibly hydrating, making it the perfect food for hot summer days. It’s low in calories and high in fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied. Feta cheese, while higher in sodium than some other cheeses, is also a good source of probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health.

So, go ahead and enjoy these salads without any guilt! They’re a delicious and healthy way to celebrate summer.

Making Ahead and Storage

These salads are best served immediately after grilling the watermelon, but you can prepare some of the components ahead of time. The watermelon can be cut into rounds or squares and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The feta cheese can also be crumbled and stored separately. The balsamic glaze can be made ahead of time as well.

However, I don’t recommend grilling the watermelon too far in advance, as it will lose its texture and flavor. It’s best to grill it just before serving. Once the salads are assembled, they should be eaten right away. The watermelon will release its juices over time, making the salads soggy.

Why This Recipe is a Summer Must-Have

Let’s be honest, summer is all about easy recipes, fresh flavors, and spending time with loved ones. And this Grilled Watermelon and Feta Stacked Salads-Summer Bliss recipe ticks all the boxes! It’s quick to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is guaranteed to impress. Plus, it’s a fun and unexpected way to enjoy a classic summer fruit.

These salads are not only delicious but also visually stunning. They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual barbecues to elegant dinner parties. And the best part? They’re so easy to customize! You can add your favorite toppings, experiment with different herbs, and create your own unique version of this summer classic.

So, what are you waiting for? Fire up the grill and get ready to experience the ultimate summer bliss!

Conclusion

I hope you’re as excited about this Grilled Watermelon and Feta Stacked Salads-Summer Bliss as I am! It’s truly one of my favorite summer recipes, and I know you’ll love it too. With its combination of sweet, salty, smoky, and fresh flavors, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, go ahead and give it a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Happy grilling!

Lady Maria

Grilled Watermelon and Feta Stacked Salads

This Grilled Watermelon and Feta Stacked Salad is a refreshing summer treat that combines the sweetness of grilled watermelon with the salty tang of feta cheese. It’s easy to make, visually appealing, and perfect for barbecues or light lunches.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 minutes mins

Total Time 21 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Appetizer, Salad

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 cups seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch thick slices
• 4 ounces feta cheese, preferably in brine
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 cup arugula
• Optional: 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
• Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
• Optional: 1 lime, for juice

Equipment

• Grill
• knife
• Cutting board
• Cookie cutter or knife (for shaping watermelon)
• Serving plate
• Small bowl (for olive oil)
• Brush
• tongs

Method

 

1. Cut the watermelon into 1-inch thick slices. Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut out rounds or squares for easier stacking.
2. Lightly brush each watermelon slice with olive oil.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Place the watermelon slices on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the watermelon is slightly softened.
5. On a serving plate, start with a slice of grilled watermelon.
6. Top with a crumble of feta cheese, a few fresh mint and basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
7. Repeat the layers until you have a beautiful stack.
8. Season the stacked salads with a pinch of salt and pepper.
9. If desired, add any of the optional ingredients, such as arugula or toasted pine nuts.
10. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

Choose a seedless watermelon that feels heavy for its size. Use high-quality feta cheese in brine for the best flavor. Don’t overgrill the watermelon; aim for grill marks and a slightly softened texture. The balsamic glaze adds essential sweetness and acidity. For storage, cut the watermelon into shapes and crumble the feta ahead of time, but grill and assemble the salads just before serving to prevent sogginess. If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can make a simple reduction by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens slightly.