15+ Watermelon Recipes to Refresh Your Summer Gatherings

Watermelon is a refreshing and versatile fruit that can add a burst of flavor to your meals. From salads to desserts, there are countless ways to enjoy this summertime favorite.

Whether you’re looking for a light snack or a fancy dish, watermelon can fit any occasion. Its natural sweetness and juicy texture pair well with many ingredients.

You can find great ideas to incorporate watermelon into your cooking and impress your friends and family.

1) Watermelon Feta Salad

Watermelon feta salad is a refreshing and simple dish. It combines sweet watermelon with salty feta cheese for a tasty contrast. You can also add cucumbers and mint to enhance the flavors.

To make this salad, start with ripe watermelon cut into cubes. Add crumbled feta cheese on top. For extra crunch, include sliced cucumbers. Finally, toss in some fresh mint leaves for a burst of flavor.

Drizzle a little olive oil and a splash of lemon juice for dressing. Serve this salad chilled for the best experience.

Ingredients

• 4 cups watermelon, cubed
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup cucumber, sliced
• ½ cup fresh mint leaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cube the watermelon and place it in a large bowl.
2. Add crumbled feta cheese and sliced cucumber.
3. Toss in fresh mint leaves.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Mix gently.
6. Serve chilled.

2) Grilled Watermelon Steaks

Grilled watermelon steaks are a fun and tasty dish perfect for summer. They have a unique flavor that pairs well with many sides. The grilling process makes the watermelon sweet and chewy.

You can add a little salt, spice, or tang to enhance the taste. Some recipes even use balsamic vinegar for a sweet, savory twist. You can enjoy these steaks as a side or a main vegetarian dish.

Ingredients

• 1 medium watermelon
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper
• Optional: balsamic vinegar, feta cheese, or herbs

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
2. Cut the watermelon into thick slices, about 1 inch wide.
3. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the slices on the grill.
5. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!

3) Watermelon Gazpacho

Watermelon gazpacho is a refreshing soup that’s perfect for hot days. It blends the sweet taste of watermelon with savory vegetables. This dish is easy to make and is a fun twist on traditional gazpacho.

To start, chop fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion. You will mix these with watermelon chunks. Add a splash of lime juice for a zesty kick.

Once everything is ready, blend the ingredients until smooth. You can chill it in the fridge for a bit or serve it right away. This gazpacho is light and full of flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cups diced watermelon
• 1 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1 cup diced cucumbers
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Chop the watermelon, tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion.
2. Combine all the ingredients in a blender.
3. Blend until smooth.
4. Chill in the fridge or serve immediately.

4) Watermelon Lime Popsicles

Watermelon lime popsicles are a refreshing treat for hot days. They are easy to make and require just a few simple ingredients. You will love how fruity and tangy they taste.

To start, cut ripe watermelon into chunks. Blend the watermelon until it’s smooth. Then, add fresh lime juice for that zesty flavor.

Pour the mixture into popsicle molds. Insert sticks and freeze them for at least four hours. Once they are fully frozen, run the molds under warm water for a few seconds to help remove the popsicles.

Enjoy these delicious watermelon lime popsicles on a sunny day!

Ingredients

• 4 cups watermelon chunks
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• Lime zest (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cut watermelon into chunks.
2. Blend watermelon until smooth.
3. Add fresh lime juice and mix well.
4. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds.
5. Insert sticks and freeze for at least 4 hours.
6. Run molds under warm water to release popsicles.

5) Watermelon Sorbet

Watermelon sorbet is a tasty treat that’s perfect for hot days. It’s refreshing, sweet, and easy to make. You can enjoy it as dessert or a snack.

To start, you need fresh watermelon. Cut it into small pieces and freeze them. This will help give your sorbet a smooth texture.

After your watermelon is frozen, blend it until smooth. You can add a little lime juice for extra flavor. Pour it into a container and freeze for a few hours.

Scoop it out and enjoy your homemade watermelon sorbet! It’s a simple way to cool off and savor summer.

Ingredients

• 4 cups of seedless watermelon, cut into cubes
• 1 tablespoon of lime juice (optional)
• 1/4 cup of sugar (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cut the watermelon into small pieces.
2. Freeze the watermelon for at least 4 hours.
3. Blend the frozen watermelon until smooth.
4. Mix in lime juice and sugar if using.
5. Pour into a container and freeze for 2-3 hours.
6. Scoop and serve.

6) Watermelon Coconut Smoothie

This Watermelon Coconut Smoothie is a refreshing treat perfect for hot days. It’s easy to make and uses just a few simple ingredients.

You’ll need ripe watermelon and coconut milk to create a creamy base. This combination not only tastes great but also hydrates you.

Feel free to add some ice for a colder drink. Blend until smooth, and enjoy a delightful smoothie that’s light and refreshing.

Ingredients

• 4-5 cups diced watermelon
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup ice cubes (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Start by cutting the watermelon into small cubes and measuring out 4-5 cups.
2. Add the diced watermelon and coconut milk to a blender.
3. If you prefer a colder smoothie, add ice cubes.
4. Blend on high until smooth and creamy.
5. Pour into a glass and enjoy your refreshing Watermelon Coconut Smoothie!

7) Watermelon Cucumber Appetizer

This refreshing appetizer is perfect for summer gatherings. You will enjoy the crispness of cucumber paired with the sweetness of watermelon. It’s easy to make and looks beautiful on any table.

To prepare, slice cucumber and watermelon into bite-sized pieces. You can combine them on a toothpick for a fun presentation.

Add a touch of flavor by garnishing with mint or a sprinkle of feta cheese. You can also drizzle a simple lime vinaigrette for extra taste.

Ingredients

• 1 cucumber
• 2 cups watermelon cubes
• Fresh mint leaves
• Feta cheese (optional)
• Lime juice

Cooking Instructions

1. Slice the cucumber into thin rounds.
2. Cut watermelon into cubes.
3. On a toothpick, layer cucumber, watermelon, and mint leaves.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese if desired.
5. Drizzle lime juice over the top before serving.

8) Watermelon Salsa

Watermelon salsa is a refreshing twist on traditional salsa. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a light snack. The sweet watermelon pairs nicely with crunchy veggies and herbs.

To make this salsa, you can use fresh ingredients like diced watermelon, red onion, and cilantro. Adding lime juice will enhance the flavor and give it a zesty kick.

You can serve it with tortilla chips or on tacos for a unique taste. This salsa is not only delicious but also colorful and healthy.

Ingredients

• 2 cups diced seedless watermelon
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 jalapeño pepper, finely diced
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine the diced watermelon, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and add salt.
3. Gently toss to combine.
4. Serve chilled with your favorite chips or tacos.

9) Spicy Watermelon Margarita

Brighten up your day with a Spicy Watermelon Margarita. It’s a fun twist on a classic drink that balances sweet and spicy flavors. Perfect for a summer party or a casual gathering.

To make this drink, you’ll need fresh watermelon juice, lime juice, tequila, orange liqueur, and a spicy kick from jalapeños or chili powder. The combination of sweet watermelon and spicy heat makes each sip exciting.

You can serve it over ice in a salted glass rimmed with chili powder. Garnish it with a slice of watermelon or a jalapeño for a nice touch.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh watermelon juice
• 1 ounce lime juice
• 2 ounces tequila
• 1 ounce orange liqueur
• Slices of jalapeño or chili powder (for spice)
• Salt and chili powder (for rimming the glass)

Cooking Instructions

1. Blend fresh watermelon and strain the juice into a bowl.
2. In a shaker, mix watermelon juice, lime juice, tequila, and orange liqueur.
3. Rim your glass with salt and chili powder.
4. Fill the glass with ice and pour the mixture over it.
5. Garnish with a watermelon slice or jalapeño. Enjoy!

10) Watermelon Basil Cooler

The Watermelon Basil Cooler is a refreshing drink perfect for hot days. It combines sweet watermelon and fragrant basil, creating a unique flavor. You can enjoy this drink at barbecues or summer gatherings.

To make it, you will need just a few simple ingredients. The fresh basil adds a nice herbal touch that pairs well with the watermelon. Serve it over ice for the best experience.

Ingredients

• 4 cups watermelon, cubed
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons honey (optional)
• 2 cups sparkling water
• Ice cubes

Cooking Instructions

1. Blend the watermelon cubes until smooth.
2. Strain the watermelon juice into a pitcher.
3. Add lime juice, honey, and basil leaves to the pitcher.
4. Stir well to combine.
5. Serve over ice and top with sparkling water.

11) Watermelon Mint Lemonade

Watermelon mint lemonade is a refreshing drink, perfect for hot days. It combines sweet watermelon with cool mint and zesty lemon. You will love how easy it is to make.

To start, you need fresh watermelon, mint leaves, lemon juice, sugar, and water. This drink is not only tasty but also hydrating.

Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

• 4 cups watermelon, cubed
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 2 cups water

Cooking Instructions

1. Blend the watermelon cubes until smooth.
2. Strain the juice into a pitcher to remove pulp.
3. Add lemon juice, sugar, and water.
4. Stir until sugar dissolves.
5. Add mint leaves and chill for at least 30 minutes.
6. Serve over ice and enjoy!

12) Watermelon Habanero Jam

Watermelon habanero jam is a fun twist on traditional jams. It combines sweet watermelon with spicy habanero peppers, creating a unique flavor. This jam is great on toast or as a topping for grilled meats.

To make this jam, start by preparing your ingredients. You’ll want your watermelon to be juicy and ripe. The habanero adds heat, so adjust the amount to your taste.

Ingredients

• 4 cups diced watermelon
• 1 cup sugar
• 1-2 habanero peppers, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 packet fruit pectin

Cooking Instructions

1. In a pot, combine the diced watermelon and sugar over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped habanero and lemon juice.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in the fruit pectin and boil for another 2 minutes.
5. Pour into sterilized jars and let cool before sealing.

13) Watermelon Sushi Rolls

Watermelon sushi rolls are a fun and fresh twist on sushi. They use watermelon instead of rice, making a light and tasty treat. You can fill them with your favorite ingredients.

To start, slice the watermelon into thin, rectangular pieces. Use these as your sushi “wraps.” Then, fill them with ingredients like avocado, cucumber, or cream cheese.

Roll the watermelon tightly, just like you would with regular sushi. You can slice them into bite-sized pieces for easy eating. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings and is sure to impress your friends.

Ingredients

• 1 small seedless watermelon
• 1 avocado
• 1 cucumber
• Cream cheese (optional)
• Soy sauce (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cut the watermelon into thin rectangles.
2. Slice the avocado and cucumber into thin strips.
3. Spread cream cheese on the watermelon if using.
4. Place avocado and cucumber on one end of the watermelon slice.
5. Roll it tightly and slice into pieces.
6. Serve with soy sauce if desired.

14) Watermelon Poke Bowl

A watermelon poke bowl is a fresh twist on the traditional poke bowl. You’ll enjoy the sweet and juicy taste of watermelon paired with savory ingredients. It’s perfect for a light meal or a fun appetizer.

Start by cutting the watermelon into cubes. Add cooked sushi rice or quinoa as a base. Then, mix in chopped cucumbers, green onions, and avocado for extra flavor.

Top the bowl with soy sauce, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. You can add sliced radishes or nori for garnish. It’s colorful and delicious!

Ingredients

• 2 cups watermelon, cubed
• 1 cup sushi rice or quinoa, cooked
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Optional: sliced radishes, nori for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the sushi rice or quinoa according to package instructions.
2. Cut watermelon into cubes.
3. Dice cucumber and slice avocado.
4. In a bowl, combine rice or quinoa, watermelon, cucumber, and avocado.
5. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil.
6. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
7. Add optional radishes or nori for garnish.

15) Watermelon Gazpacho Shooters

Watermelon gazpacho shooters are a fun and refreshing treat. They combine sweet watermelon with fresh veggies and herbs. This dish is perfect for a summer party or a light appetizer.

To start, blend ripe watermelon with cucumber, bell pepper, and a bit of lime juice. This mix creates a smooth and tasty base. For added flavor, toss in fresh mint or basil.

Serve the gazpacho in small glasses for a cool, chilled drink. You can garnish with tiny vegetable pieces or a sprig of mint. This dish is not only delicious but also beautiful.

Ingredients

• 3 cups watermelon, cubed
• 1 cup cucumber, chopped
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Fresh mint or basil for garnish
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Blend the watermelon in a blender until smooth.
2. Add cucumber, red bell pepper, lime juice, and salt to the blender.
3. Blend until combined.
4. Chill the mixture in the fridge for 30 minutes.
5. Pour the chilled mixture into shooter glasses and garnish before serving.