"Kids are heading back to school and Halloween decorations have landed at your local Target, but don’t let these signs of fall fool you—there’s still plenty of summer left to enjoy. In fact, one of the best things about summer has only just begun: watermelon season. There is truly nothing better than cutting into a red, juicy watermelon in the summer. As delicious as it is on its own, this favorite summer fruit is actually more versatile than you might think. Whether you’re looking for a new go-to side, something to snack on by the pool, or a crowd favorite to serve at your next gathering, these watermelon recipes are sure to hit the spot.
1. Watermelon Halloumi Skewers
This savory-smoky-sweet combo is super simple but makes for a beautiful side dish for an elevated meal at home or a dinner party with friends. To make it, simply skewer pieces of halloumi cheese and watermelon, season, and grill. To pack an extra punch, I highly recommend making the mint basil oil to drizzle on top.
2. Grilled Peach and Watermelon Burrata Salad
If you didn’t know, peaches are also in season as summer winds down. This recipe combines sweet grilled peaches, crisp and juicy watermelon, and mouthwatering burrata to create the most gorgeous and flavorful salad to ever grace your kitchen. Try it with grilled chicken if you want to add some protein.
3. Spicy Watermelon Margarita
I’m always in the mood for a margarita, and this bright pink watermelon version is seriously calling my name. And what if I told you that it only calls for three ingredients? Add a little jalapeño if you like it spicy, or maybe try a frozen or sparkling version to switch things up.
4. Vegan Watermelon Poke Bowl
Traditional poke bowls use tuna, but I promise you won’t miss it in this vegan version once you bite into the juicy marinated watermelon. Build the rest of your bowl with sticky rice, mango, edamame, and cucumber. Then top with sesame seeds and seaweed for ultimate deliciousness.
5. Watermelon Feta Salad
Watermelon and feta are the ultimate power couple. This salad takes the flavor up a notch with mint, red onion, and an optional balsamic glaze. Serve this beauty alongside your favorite summer entreé or just devour it on its own.
6. Watermelon Salsa
There are few things I love more than fresh salsa in the summer. This recipe combines watermelon, cucumber, jalapeño, red onion, avocado, cilantro, and lime to create the most flavorful, refreshing salsa ever. I honestly can’t think of a better poolside snack.
7. Dark Chocolate-Covered Watermelon
Chocolate and watermelon might sound like a weird combination, but trust me, it’s delicious. Dark chocolate is slightly bitter and complements watermelon’s sweet flavor perfectly. For the final touch, add a sprinkle of crushed nuts, coconut, or flaky sea salt.
8. Watermelon Pizza
A fruit pizza where the “crust” is literally fruit?! Sign me up. Start with a big watermelon cut into thick circular slices. Then, top with a drizzle of cream cheese frosting and your favorite berries and cut it into pizza slices. Serve this recipe at your end-of-summer cookout or as a fun alternative to your typical summer dessert.
9. 3-Ingredient Easy Watermelon Granita
My favorite way to use up an overripe watermelon? Granitas. These icy treats are fun to make and just the thing for a hot day. Simply blend watermelon with lime juice and your sweetener of choice, pour into a shallow dish, and freeze. After a few hours, scrape the watermelon mixture with a fork to create a slushy texture. If you want a boozy version, add a little rum before freezing.
10. Balsamic Watermelon Chicken Salad
You’ll find me making this salad on repeat, as long as I can get my hands on a good watermelon. It checks every box of salad perfection: a sweet and refreshing watermelon and balsamic glaze combo, savory chicken, crunchy almonds, and tangy bleu cheese to tie it all together.
Breanna Woods, Contributing Wellness Writer
Breanna is a registered dietitian, writer, and mom of two with a master’s degree in Food and Nutrition from Bowling Green State University. In addition to The Everygirl, Breanna has worked with Blogilates, Naked Nutrition, Organic Valley, and other wellness outlets.