20 Refreshing Watermelon Recipes Delicious

Summer’s here, and what better way to beat the heat than with juicy, refreshing watermelon? Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just looking for a sweet escape, our roundup of 20 Refreshing Watermelon Recipes is your ticket to deliciousness. From salads to cocktails, these easy-to-make dishes are sure to impress. Dive in and discover your new favorite way to enjoy this seasonal superstar!

Watermelon Feta Salad

This refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad is the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it an ideal side dish for your summer barbecues or a light lunch on a hot day.

4 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1-inch cubes)
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion

1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic glaze

1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

In a large bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, and thinly sliced red onion.

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic glaze, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Drizzle the dressing over the watermelon mixture and gently toss to combine.
Sprinkle the chopped mint leaves over the salad and give it one final gentle toss.

Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for up to 30 minutes before serving for an extra refreshing taste.

The contrast between the juicy watermelon and the creamy feta, accented by the tangy balsamic glaze, creates a symphony of flavors that’s both unexpected and utterly delightful.

Tip: For an added crunch, toss in a handful of toasted pine nuts or chopped cucumbers right before serving.

Grilled Watermelon Steak

Who knew watermelon could take on a whole new life on the grill? This Grilled Watermelon Steak is a game-changer for your summer BBQs, offering a smoky-sweet flavor that’s utterly irresistible.

1 large watermelon, cut into 1-inch thick steaks (about 4 steaks)

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
Brush both sides of each watermelon steak with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
Place the watermelon steaks on the grill. Cook for 3 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear and the watermelon is slightly caramelized.

Remove from the grill and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

The magic of this recipe lies in the contrast between the smoky char and the watermelon’s natural sweetness, creating a dish that’s both surprising and satisfying. Perfect for those who love to experiment with flavors!

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, let the seasoned watermelon steaks sit for 10 minutes before grilling to allow the spices to penetrate.

Watermelon Gazpacho

This refreshing Watermelon Gazpacho is the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it an ideal summer dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed

1 medium cucumber, peeled and chopped
1 small red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped

In a blender, combine the watermelon, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion. Blend until smooth.

Add the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to the blender. Pulse a few times to combine.
Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and stir in the chopped mint leaves.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

This gazpacho stands out with its vibrant color and the unexpected sweetness of watermelon balanced by the tang of lime and the freshness of mint. It’s a showstopper at any summer gathering.

Tip: For an extra chill, serve the gazpacho in bowls that have been frozen for 30 minutes.

Watermelon Sorbet

Beat the heat with this incredibly simple and refreshing watermelon sorbet, a sweet treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup water
1 tbsp fresh lime juice
1/4 tsp salt

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup water. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
Place 4 cups seedless watermelon in a blender or food processor. Add the cooled sugar syrup, 1 tbsp fresh lime juice, and 1/4 tsp salt. Blend until smooth.
Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze for 1 hour. After an hour, stir the mixture with a fork to break up any ice crystals. Repeat this process every 30 minutes for about 3-4 hours, or until the sorbet is firm but still scoopable.

For a smoother texture, transfer the sorbet to a food processor and pulse a few times before serving.

This watermelon sorbet stands out for its vibrant color and the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, making it a hit at any summer gathering.

Tip: For an extra refreshing twist, serve the sorbet in hollowed-out watermelon halves!

Watermelon Cucumber Salad

This refreshing salad is the perfect blend of sweet and crisp, making it an ideal side dish for those hot summer days or a light lunch option.

4 cups cubed seedless watermelon

2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

In a large bowl, combine the cubed watermelon and thinly sliced cucumbers.
Add the chopped mint leaves and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl.

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, salt, and black pepper.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine all the ingredients.
Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.

The contrast between the juicy watermelon and the crisp cucumbers, paired with the tangy feta and fresh mint, creates a symphony of flavors that’s both invigorating and satisfying.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of chili powder to the dressing before tossing it with the salad.

Watermelon Mint Smoothie

Beat the heat with this refreshing Watermelon Mint Smoothie, a perfect blend of sweet and herbaceous flavors that’ll cool you down in no time.

2 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
1 tablespoon honey
1 cup ice cubes

Combine the seedless watermelon, Greek yogurt, fresh mint leaves, and honey in a blender.
Blend on high until the mixture is smooth, about 1 minute.
Add the ice cubes and blend again until the smoothie is thick and frosty, about 30 seconds more.

Pour into glasses and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

This smoothie stands out with its vibrant color and the refreshing kick of mint, making it a hit for summer brunches or a post-workout refresher.

Tip: For an extra chilly treat, freeze the watermelon cubes overnight and skip the ice.

Watermelon Pizza

Who says pizza has to be savory? This sweet and refreshing watermelon pizza is the perfect summer treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

1 large seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch thick rounds

1 cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons honey
1/2 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

1/4 cup shredded coconut
1/4 cup chopped mint leaves

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F). Place the watermelon rounds on the grill and cook for 2 minutes on each side to get slight grill marks. Remove and let cool on a plate.

In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt and honey until well combined.
Spread the yogurt mixture evenly over the cooled watermelon rounds, leaving a small border around the edges.
Top with mixed berries, shredded coconut, and chopped mint leaves.

Cut into slices and serve immediately for a juicy, sweet, and slightly smoky dessert.

This watermelon pizza stands out with its playful presentation and the unexpected smoky flavor from the grill, making it a hit at any summer gathering.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, drizzle a little more honey on top before serving.

Watermelon Agua Fresca

Beat the heat with this incredibly refreshing Watermelon Agua Fresca, a perfect hydrating drink that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed

1/2 cup cold water
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon honey (or to taste)

Ice cubes, for serving
Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

In a blender, combine the watermelon, cold water, fresh lime juice, and honey. Blend until smooth.

Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher to remove any pulp, if desired.
Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the agua fresca over the ice.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra refreshing touch.

This Watermelon Agua Fresca stands out for its natural sweetness and vibrant color, making it a hit at any summer gathering or as a midday pick-me-up.

Tip: For a fun twist, add a splash of sparkling water to each glass just before serving for a fizzy version of this classic drink.

Watermelon Rind Pickles

Don’t toss those watermelon rinds! Transform them into sweet, tangy pickles that are a surprising delight.

4 cups peeled and cubed watermelon rind
1 cup apple cider vinegar

1 cup water
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon salt

1 teaspoon whole cloves
1 cinnamon stick
1/2 teaspoon allspice berries

In a large pot, combine the watermelon rind, apple cider vinegar, water, granulated sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Add the whole cloves, cinnamon stick, and allspice berries to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the rind is translucent and tender.
Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Transfer the pickles and their liquid to a clean jar and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

These pickles are a fantastic way to reduce waste and enjoy a unique treat that’s both sweet and spicy, with a satisfying crunch.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a thin slice of fresh ginger to the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Watermelon and Tomato Salad

This refreshing Watermelon and Tomato Salad is a summer staple, combining sweet and savory flavors in every bite. Perfect for picnics or as a light side dish, it’s sure to impress with its vibrant colors and juicy textures.

4 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1-inch pieces)
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

In a large bowl, gently combine the watermelon, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss lightly to coat.

Sprinkle the torn basil leaves over the top and give one final gentle toss.
Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for up to 1 hour before serving to enhance the flavors.

The contrast between the sweet watermelon and the tangy balsamic dressing creates a delightful flavor explosion, while the basil adds a fresh aromatic touch that ties everything together.

Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a sprinkle of feta cheese or a handful of arugula leaves before serving.

Watermelon Popsicles

Beat the summer heat with these juicy watermelon popsicles that are as fun to make as they are to eat!

4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1/4 teaspoon salt

Blend 4 cups seedless watermelon, 1/4 cup honey, 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a blender until smooth.
Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, leaving a little space at the top for expansion.
Insert popsicle sticks and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid.
To unmold, run warm water over the outside of the molds for a few seconds, then gently pull the popsicles out.

These popsicles stand out with their perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making them a hit at any summer gathering.

Tip: For an extra refreshing twist, add a handful of fresh mint leaves to the blender before mixing.

Watermelon Sangria

This refreshing watermelon sangria is the perfect way to cool down on a hot summer day, blending the sweetness of watermelon with the crispness of white wine for a drink that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
1 bottle (750 ml) dry white wine, chilled
1/2 cup vodka
1/4 cup triple sec
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
2 tbsp sugar
1 cup sparkling water, chilled
1 cup ice cubes
Lime slices and mint leaves for garnish

In a blender, puree the watermelon until smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher to remove any pulp.
Add the white wine, vodka, triple sec, fresh lime juice, and sugar to the pitcher. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Just before serving, stir in the sparkling water and ice cubes.
Pour into glasses and garnish with lime slices and mint leaves.

What sets this sangria apart is its vibrant pink hue and the way the watermelon’s natural sweetness perfectly balances the tartness of the lime and the dryness of the wine.

Tip: For an extra chill, freeze some watermelon cubes and use them instead of regular ice to keep your sangria cool without diluting it.

Watermelon Salsa

This refreshing watermelon salsa is the perfect blend of sweet and spicy, making it a hit at any summer gathering.

2 cups diced seedless watermelon
1/2 cup diced cucumber
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Juice of 1 lime
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon, cucumber, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and sprinkle with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined.
Let the salsa sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

The juicy watermelon paired with the crunch of cucumber and the kick of jalapeño creates a salsa that’s as vibrant in flavor as it is in color. It’s a standout dish that brings a burst of freshness to your table.

Tip: For an extra touch of sweetness, add a drizzle of honey before serving.

Watermelon and Feta Skewers

These refreshing skewers are the perfect blend of sweet and salty, making them an irresistible appetizer for any summer gathering.

2 cups watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 cup feta cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Thread alternating pieces of watermelon and feta onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic glaze, salt, and black pepper.
Lightly brush the skewers with the olive oil mixture.
Grill the skewers for 1-2 minutes on each side, just until grill marks appear.
Remove from the grill and sprinkle with chopped mint leaves before serving.

The contrast of juicy watermelon with creamy feta and a hint of mint creates a flavor explosion that’s both surprising and delightful. Perfect for those who love a sweet and savory combo!

Tip: For an extra touch of elegance, drizzle a little more balsamic glaze over the skewers right before serving.

Watermelon Lemonade

Nothing says summer like a refreshing glass of watermelon lemonade. This easy-to-make drink is perfect for cooling down on a hot day.

4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups cold water
Ice cubes, for serving
Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

In a blender, puree the watermelon until smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher to remove any pulp.
Add the fresh lemon juice and granulated sugar to the pitcher. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Pour in the cold water and stir to combine.
Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the watermelon lemonade over the ice. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.

This watermelon lemonade stands out with its perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making it a hit at any summer gathering.

Tip: For an extra refreshing twist, freeze some watermelon cubes and use them instead of regular ice cubes to keep your drink cold without diluting it.

Watermelon and Arugula Salad

This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of watermelon with the peppery bite of arugula for a perfect summer dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

4 cups cubed seedless watermelon
4 cups fresh arugula
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

In a large bowl, combine the watermelon, arugula, feta cheese, red onion, and mint.
Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze, then sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Toss gently to combine all the ingredients without crushing the watermelon.
Serve immediately for the freshest taste and crisp texture.

The contrast between the juicy watermelon and the sharp feta creates a flavor explosion that’s unexpectedly delightful. It’s a salad that’ll have your guests asking for seconds!

Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, add a handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts before serving.

Watermelon Margarita

Nothing says summer like a refreshing Watermelon Margarita, perfect for sipping on a hot day or spicing up your next backyard BBQ.

2 cups fresh watermelon, cubed
1/2 cup silver tequila
1/4 cup triple sec
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons agave syrup
1 cup ice
Salt for rimming the glass
Lime wedges for garnish

Start by rimming your glass with salt. Rub a lime wedge around the edge of the glass, then dip it into a plate of salt to coat the rim.
In a blender, combine the watermelon, tequila, triple sec, fresh lime juice, agave syrup, and ice. Blend until smooth.
Pour the mixture into your prepared glass over fresh ice if desired.
Garnish with a lime wedge on the rim of the glass.

This Watermelon Margarita stands out with its perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, thanks to the fresh watermelon and lime juice. It’s a vibrant, fruity twist on the classic margarita that’s sure to impress.

Tip: For an extra frosty drink, freeze watermelon cubes overnight and use them instead of ice in the blender to avoid dilution.

Watermelon and Coconut Smoothie

Beat the heat with this refreshing Watermelon and Coconut Smoothie, a tropical twist that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

2 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
1 cup coconut milk
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup ice cubes

Place the watermelon, coconut milk, honey, and vanilla extract in a blender.
Blend on high speed until smooth, about 1 minute.
Add the ice cubes and blend again until the mixture is smooth and frothy, about 30 seconds.
Pour into glasses and serve immediately.

This smoothie stands out with its perfect balance of sweetness from the watermelon and richness from the coconut milk, making it a hydrating treat that feels like a vacation in a glass.

Tip: For an extra chill, freeze some watermelon cubes overnight and use them in place of the ice for a smoother texture.

Watermelon and Basil Salad

This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of watermelon with the aromatic punch of fresh basil, making it a perfect summer side dish.

4 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1-inch cubes)
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

In a large bowl, gently toss the watermelon cubes and sliced basil leaves together.
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lime juice, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Drizzle the dressing over the watermelon and basil mixture, tossing gently to coat evenly.
If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad just before serving.

The contrast between the juicy watermelon and the crisp basil, with a tangy lime dressing, creates a salad that’s as vibrant in flavor as it is in color. It’s a standout dish that brings a burst of freshness to any meal.

Tip: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a little honey over the salad before adding the feta cheese.

Watermelon and Goat Cheese Crostini

This refreshing and elegant appetizer combines the sweetness of watermelon with the tangy creaminess of goat cheese, perfect for summer gatherings.

1 small baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup diced watermelon
4 ounces goat cheese, softened
1 tablespoon honey
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush each with olive oil. Bake for 10 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
While the bread is toasting, mix the softened goat cheese with honey, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth.
Once the crostini are cooled slightly, spread a generous layer of the goat cheese mixture on each slice.
Top each crostini with a few pieces of diced watermelon and garnish with a fresh mint leaf.

The contrast between the crispy bread, creamy goat cheese, and juicy watermelon makes this dish a standout at any party.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the finished crostini.

Conclusion

We hope these 20 refreshing watermelon recipes inspire your next meal or treat! From sweet to savory, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t forget to try your favorites, leave a comment sharing which ones you loved, and spread the joy by pinning this article on Pinterest. Happy cooking!