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.

GET THE RECIPE HERE

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.

GET THE RECIPE HERE

3.   Easy Watermelon Basil Salad with Strawberries and Feta

{PinterestId: 190777}

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.

GET THE RECIPE HERE

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!

GET THE RECIPE HERE

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.

GET THE RECIPE HERE

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.

GET THE RECIPE HERE

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.

GET THE RECIPE HERE

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!

GET THE RECIPE HERE

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.

GET THE RECIPE HERE

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!

GET THE RECIPE HERE

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!

GET THE RECIPE HERE

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!

GET THE RECIPE HERE

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.

GET THE RECIPE HERE

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.

GET THE RECIPE HERE

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!

GET THE RECIPE HERE

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!

GET THE RECIPE HERE

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!

GET THE RECIPE HERE

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!

GET THE RECIPE HERE

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.

GET THE RECIPE HERE

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!

GET THE RECIPE HERE

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!

Similar Posts

11 Comments

  1. Wow so many great watermelon recipes. I love salsa so I want to try the watermelon salsa. I’m sure it has just the right amount of spicy and sweet flavors.

    The watermelon lollies and pizza look good too.

  2. I love these recipes! I am for sure making those healthy watermelon fries! What a cool way to serve a delicious watermelon and my kids will absolutely love it! I have already pinned this one so thank you!

  3. I love the watermelon in fruit salad on a hot summer day, I haven’t tried the watermelon lilies, or even the pizza as well. All the other recipes sound so good.

  4. love all of these.. watermelon is such a wonderful fruit to enjoy in these hot summer days.. the salads – i am sure i will be trying them soon..

  5. These do all sound like such wonderful recipes. I do love watermelon so hopefully I will get to try a few of these this summer.

  6. Wow there are so many great watermelon recipes to choose from. I like the lollies, fries, and the watermelon pizza. I bet watermelon water would be good too.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *