Summer is here, and it’s time to fire up the grill! If you’re looking for a unique and delicious dish to serve at your next barbecue, look no further than grilled watermelon with balsamic glaze. This sweet and savory dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, and it’s packed with nutrients to boot.
The Benefits of Watermelon
Watermelon is a summertime staple for good reason. Not only is it refreshing and hydrating, but it’s also loaded with vitamins and minerals. One cup of watermelon contains:
- Vitamin C: 21% of the RDI
- Vitamin A: 18% of the RDI
- Potassium: 5% of the RDI
- Magnesium: 4% of the RDI
- Water: 92%
Watermelon is also rich in antioxidants, including lycopene, which has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer.
Grilling Watermelon
If you’ve never grilled watermelon before, you’re in for a treat. Grilling caramelizes the natural sugars in the fruit, giving it a smoky, slightly charred flavor that pairs perfectly with the tangy balsamic glaze. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Cut a seedless watermelon into thick slices, about 1 inch thick.
- Brush each slice with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt.
- Grill the watermelon slices for 2-3 minutes per side, until grill marks appear.
- Remove the watermelon from the grill and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
That’s it! The result is a sweet and smoky dish that’s perfect for summer.
Making Balsamic Glaze
Balsamic glaze is a simple yet flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with grilled watermelon. Here’s how to make it:
- In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of balsamic vinegar and 1/4 cup of honey.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened and reduced by about half.
- Remove the glaze from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes before drizzling it over the grilled watermelon.
That’s it! You can store any leftover glaze in the fridge for up to a week.
Other Grilled Watermelon Ideas
If you’re a fan of grilled watermelon, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy this delicious fruit. Here are a few ideas:
- Top grilled watermelon with crumbled feta cheese and fresh mint for a refreshing salad.
- Grill watermelon cubes on skewers with shrimp or chicken for a tasty kebab.
- Serve grilled watermelon as a side dish with grilled steak or chicken.
Conclusion
Grilled watermelon with balsamic glaze is a unique and delicious dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues. Not only is it packed with nutrients, but it’s also easy to make and sure to impress your guests. So fire up the grill and give it a try!
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/watermelon-health-benefits
- https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/bobby-flay/grilled-watermelon-with-balsamic-glaze-recipe-1942903
