20 Watermelon Recipes Perfect For The Summer
Looking for new and exciting ways to enjoy watermelon this summer? I love watermelon. I grew up with my cousins sitting on the porch eating watermelon by the slice…those were the days. So, I’ve rounded up 20 Watermelon Recipes with diverse dishes that highlight the fruit’s juicy sweetness and refreshing qualities.
These watermelon recipes are perfect for hot summer days ranging from sweet treats to savory delights, showcasing the fruit’s juicy sweetness and hydrating qualities. From classic favorites like watermelon salads and popsicles to options like watermelon rind curry and grilled watermelon halloumi salad, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to make the most of this versatile fruit.
Discover how watermelon can transform into savory salsas, hydrating drinks, and even guilt-free desserts. These recipes are delicious and easy to prepare, making them perfect for picnics, barbecues, and everyday snacks. Whether you’re in the mood for a light, healthy bite or a crowd-pleasing treat, these watermelon recipes will impress and refresh. Let’s dive in!
1. Fresh watermelon lollies
Image from the cinnamon jar
Cool off with these refreshing Fresh Watermelon Lollies, a healthy, refreshing, and thirst-quenching treat that’s a perfect summer treat for both adults and kids! Made with fresh fruits on kebab sticks —these aren’t frozen like regular watermelon ice lollies.
2. Healthy Watermelon Fries
Image from the Soccer Mom blog
Give your snack time a refreshing twist with these Healthy Watermelon Fries! Crisp and hydrating, these delightful treats are perfect for a hot day. TikTok watermelon fries paired with a tangy strawberry dip are easy to prepare and burst with natural sweetness.
3. Easy Watermelon Basil Salad with Strawberries and Feta
Image from Sigs Bee Street
Indulge in a burst of summer flavors with this easy watermelon basil salad with strawberries and feta. Juicy watermelon chunks, sweet strawberries, and crumbled feta cheese come together in a refreshing, savory-sweet combination, perfectly complemented by fresh basil and a light balsamic drizzle.
This vibrant salad is visually stunning and incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a quick, healthy, and delicious side dish or light meal on warm days.
4. Watermelon Pico De Gallo (Salsa)
Image from the short-order cook
Spice up your summer with Watermelon Pico De Gallo! This refreshing and flavorful salsa adds a delightful, unexpected sweetness to your favorite dishes, perfect for dipping or as a topping for grilled meats and tacos. Quick to prepare and bursting with vibrant colors, it’s a must-try for any summer gathering!
5. Watermelon Granola Trifle
Image from foodmeanderings
Elevate your dessert game with this delightful Watermelon Granola Trifle. Layers of juicy watermelon, mango, toasted coconut, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola create a refreshing and satisfying treat that’s perfect for any day.
This easy-to-make trifle looks stunning with its vibrant colors and offers a balanced mix of textures and flavors. Whether served as a healthy breakfast, a light dessert, or a crowd-pleasing snack, this watermelon granola trifle will impress and refresh.
6. Crisp Pickled Watermelon Rind Recipe
Image from recipes from leftovers
With this crisp pickled watermelon rind recipe, don’t let any part of your watermelon go to waste! Transform the often-discarded rind into a tangy, crunchy treat perfect for snacking or adding a zesty kick to your salads and sandwiches.
Pickled watermelon rinds are easy to prepare and offer a delightful balance of sweet and sour flavors.
7. Watermelon Feta Salad
Image from alekas get together
This salad is not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to prepare. Ideal as a side dish or a light, healthy meal, this Watermelon Feta Salad pairs well with heavier proteins and will easily become one of your fav summer salads.
8. Watermelon Salsa
Image from cincy shopper
Fruity salsas are an exciting and tasty way to spice things up at dinnertime during summer. And this watermelon salsa is just perfect, whether as a dip with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled fish and chicken; this easy-to-make salsa is a crowd-pleaser that’s ideal for summer gatherings. Enjoy the burst of freshness and a hint of heat in every bite!
9. Watermelon Arugula Salad
Image from a cedar spoon
Refresh your palate with the crisp and vibrant Watermelon Arugula Salad. This delightful combination features sweet, juicy watermelon, peppery arugula, tangy feta cheese, and a drizzle of white vinegar dressing, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, this salad is an excellent choice for a light, healthy meal or a standout side dish at your next summer gathering.
10. Watermelon popsicles
Image lolo home kitchen
Beat the heat with these refreshing Watermelon Popsicles! Made with pure, juicy watermelon and a hint of lime, these popsicles are a simple, healthy, and delicious way to cool down on a hot day. Perfect for kids and adults alike, these icy treats are easy to prepare and bursting with natural sweetness. Enjoy the quintessential taste of summer in every bite!
11. Watermelon Pizza {Whole30}
Image from mary’s whole life
Indulge in a fun and healthy treat that’s perfect for those following the Whole30 program. This creative dish features a juicy watermelon base with fresh berries and coconut whipped cream. It is easy to assemble and bursting with flavor; this refreshing “pizza” is a delightful and nutritious option for a light snack or a fruity dessert. Enjoy a guilt-free taste of summer with every slice!
12. Watermelon Salad With Basil
Image from in the kitchen
This healthy watermelon salad with basil is fresh and fruity, combining textures and flavors. It’s served over a bed of leafy greens and topped with a refreshing watermelon reduction vinaigrette. It is perfect as a light appetizer or a side dish for summer meals. Enjoy the simplicity and freshness of this vibrant, crowd-pleasing salad!
13. Grilled Watermelon Halloumi Salad
Image from divalicious recipes
It is a simple, easy salad made on a grilled pan or BBQ. The sweet watermelon in this recipe balances perfectly with the salty halloumi and balsamic mint dressing. This unique and refreshing salad perfectly blends sweet, salty, and tangy. Ideal for a light meal or a standout side dish, this salad is sure to impress at your next barbecue or picnic.
14. Spicy Watermelon Jalapeño Salad
Image from xoxobella
Kick up your summer menu with something sweet, spicy, and refreshing. The ripe, pink wedges of sweet watermelon contrast beautifully with the lime dressing and salty feta cheese. This bold and refreshing salad is perfect for those who love a bit of spice. Easy to prepare and bursting with vibrant flavors, it makes an excellent side dish or a unique addition to your summer cookout spread.
15. Watermelon Rind Energy Balls
Image from veg cookbook
Utilizing the often-overlooked watermelon rind, these energy balls are packed with fiber, nuts, and dates, making them a perfect bite-sized treat for on-the-go energy. Easy to make and deliciously satisfying, these energy balls are a creative way to reduce food waste while enjoying a healthy, sweet snack. Enjoy the unexpected goodness of watermelon rind in every bite!
16. Easy Dehydrated Watermelon (Watermelon Jerky)
Image from peak to plate
Savor the natural sweetness of watermelon in a fun, chewy form with these dehydrated watermelons. This simple recipe transforms fresh watermelon slices into a delicious and portable snack that’s perfect for hiking, road trips, or any time you crave a healthy treat. With minimal preparation and just a dehydrator or oven, you can enjoy watermelon’s intense, concentrated flavor all year round. Indulge in a guilt-free, naturally sweet snack with this easy and delightful recipe!
17. Watermelon Simple Syrup
Image from my mocktail forest
Made from fresh watermelon juice and sugar, this versatile syrup adds sweet, fruity flavor to cocktails, lemonades, iced teas, and more. Easy to prepare and perfect for summer, this simple syrup captures the essence of watermelon, making it an essential addition to your culinary creations. Enjoy a taste of summer sweetness in every drizzle!
18. Fresh Fruit Pizza with Watermelon Salsa
Image from hezzi-dsbooks and cooks
Treat yourself to a vibrant and healthy dessert with this fresh fruit pizza with watermelon salsa. A crisp, golden crust is topped with a creamy layer of yogurt and an array of colorful fresh fruits, then finished with a zesty watermelon salsa.
This fun and refreshing twist on traditional fruit pizza is easy to assemble and perfect for summer gatherings. Delight your taste buds with the juicy sweetness and tangy flavors in every bite of this eye-catching treat!
19. Watermelon Rind Curry (Kalingar nu Shaak)
Image from indiaphile
This traditional Indian recipe transforms the often-discarded watermelon rind into a delicious, spiced curry, packed with aromatic spices and rich flavors. Easy to prepare and eco-friendly, this curry is a fantastic way to reduce food waste while enjoying a hearty, satisfying meal. Serve it with rice or flatbread for a delightful and nutritious culinary adventure.
20. Watermelon Cake
Image from my mocktail forest
Delight your guests with a stunning and refreshing watermelon cake. This show-stopping dessert features a whole watermelon carved into a cake shape, frosted with whipped cream or yogurt, and adorned with an array of fresh fruits and nuts. Perfect for summer parties and special occasions, this no-bake treat is not only beautiful but also healthy and hydrating. Enjoy a slice of this creative and delicious watermelon cake for a guilt-free indulgence that’s sure to impress!
Watermelon Recipes FAQ
How do I choose the best watermelon for my recipes?
To select a ripe watermelon, look for one that feels heavy for its size, indicating a high water content. The skin should be uniform in color, free from major blemishes, and have a creamy yellow spot where it sat on the ground and ripened in the sun. A hollow sound when tapped also suggests ripeness.
Can I use watermelon rind in recipes?
Yes, watermelon rind is edible and can be used in recipes like pickles, curries, and even energy balls. Several recipes in this roundup are made with watermelon rind and are pretty easy to prepare.
How can I store leftover watermelon and watermelon-based dishes?
Store leftover watermelon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. For watermelon-based dishes like salads or salsa, it’s best to consume them within a day or two to maintain freshness and texture. For more extended storage, you can freeze watermelon chunks, though they may lose some texture upon thawing, making them better suited for smoothies or blended drinks.
Please let me know if you try these recipes; we would love your feedback. Enjoy your summer friends!
