Prepare to be pleasantly surprised by this seemingly unconventional dish—Grilled Watermelon Steak. While it may sound like a novelty, treating watermelon like a vegetable and adding savory seasonings creates a delicious and visually appealing result. Grilling the watermelon helps cook off excess water, leaving behind a delightful “steak” with a satisfying texture and delightful flavors. This dish pairs perfectly with any barbecue meal, complementing grilled meats, seafood, or vegetables. Don’t let the novelty deter you; this grilled watermelon steak is a unique and mouthwatering addition to your culinary repertoire.
Grilled watermelon, seasoned with savory ingredients, may seem like a novelty, but its flavors and texture will delight your taste buds. As most of the water cooks out, you’re left with a tasty little “steak” that looks as impressive as it tastes. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply want to try something different, this dish is a delightful addition to any meal. Serve it alongside grilled meats, seafood, or vegetables, and complement the flavors with Beer-Glazed Black Beans.
MAKES: 4 to 6 servings
TIME: 30 minutes
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 small watermelon
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh rosemary leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Lemon wedges for serving
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Heat a charcoal or gas grill or a broiler to moderately high heat, positioning the rack about 4 inches from the heat source.
- Cut the watermelon lengthwise into halves or quarters, depending on its size. From each length, slice 2-inch-thick pieces, keeping the rind intact. Use a fork to remove as many seeds from the heart of the watermelon as possible without damaging the flesh.
- In a small bowl, mix the extra virgin olive oil with the minced rosemary and season with salt and pepper.
- Brush or rub the olive oil mixture all over the watermelon slices, coating them evenly.
- Grill or broil the watermelon slices for about 5 minutes on each side. The flesh should be lightly caramelized and slightly dried out.
- Serve the grilled watermelon steaks with lemon wedges on the side.
Chile-Rubbed Grilled Watermelon Steak: For a delightful Mexican-inspired twist, replace the rosemary with 2 tablespoons of chili powder (you can make your own; see page 66). Instead of lemon wedges, serve the grilled watermelon with lime wedges for an added zing.
Embrace the novelty and relish the flavors and textures of Grilled Watermelon Steak. This versatile dish will surely become a unique favorite on your menu, perfect for barbecue gatherings or when you want to impress your guests with a visually stunning and delicious treat.
