If you think watermelon is only for eating cold and fresh, wait until you try this Grilled Watermelon with Lime and Mint Recipe. It's smoky, juicy, and bursting with unexpected flavor twists that will wow your next cookout guests!

The image shows a white textured oval plate filled with grilled watermelon slices cut into thick triangular pieces. Each slice has a deep red inside with visible black grill marks and a thin green rind at the bottom. Some slices have a slight char on the rind side. There are small sprinkles of green mint leaves over the watermelon pieces. Around the plate, there are lime wedges placed for garnish, adding a touch of light green. Near the plate, a small white bowl with coarse salt is on the white marbled surface beside fresh green mint leaves and a white cloth. The colors are bright and fresh with a crisp, clean look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Grilled Watermelon with Lime and Mint Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Grilled Watermelon with Lime and Mint Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Grilled Watermelon with Lime and Mint Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Ever since I discovered how amazing watermelon gets with a little char and topped with fresh lime and mint, it’s become my go-to summer side dish. It’s simple, refreshing, and elevates any meal with minimal effort.

Flavor-packed upgrade: Grilling transforms sweet watermelon with a smoky depth that’s incredible paired with bright lime and mint.
Super quick and easy: From prep to plate in just 10 minutes—perfect for busy summer days.
Versatile sides: Works beautifully alongside BBQ, salads, or on its own as a refreshing snack.
Customizable toppings: Add feta cheese for a creamy, salty contrast and a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Choosing the right ingredients makes all the difference in this grilled watermelon recipe. Look for a watermelon that’s ripe but still firm so it grills nicely without falling apart. Fresh lime, mint, and optional feta and honey come together to create a perfect balance of flavors.

Flat lay of ten fresh bright red watermelon wedges with green rind, a few vibrant green lime wedges, a small white ceramic bowl filled with golden honey, a small white ceramic bowl holding bright green chopped fresh mint leaves, a small white ceramic bowl of white flaky sea salt crystals, a small white ceramic bowl with crumbled white feta cheese, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Watermelon: Firm wedges hold up well on the grill and stay juicy with a caramelized smoky edge.
Olive oil: Brushing the grill grates prevents sticking and adds a subtle richness.
Flaky sea salt: Enhances the natural sweetness and adds a pleasant crunch.
Fresh mint leaves: Adds refreshing herbal notes that brighten every bite.
Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice lifts and balances the smoky sweetness perfectly.
Crumbled feta cheese (optional): Offers a tangy, creamy contrast that pairs beautifully with sweet watermelon.
Honey (optional): A light drizzle enhances sweetness for those who want a little extra indulgence.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Grilled Watermelon with Lime and Mint Recipe is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want to keep it simple or dress it up with extras, there’s plenty of room to make it your own.

Feta Fun: I love adding crumbled feta cheese for a salty, creamy contrast that really makes the smoky watermelon pop. But if you’re dairy-free, feel free to skip it—your taste buds won’t miss out on the refreshing flavors.
Sweeten It Up: Drizzling a bit of honey over the top is my go-to when I want to push the sweetness further. It balances beautifully with the lime and mint and adds a lovely glossy finish.
Mint Variations: If you don’t have fresh mint on hand, try fresh basil or even a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a different herbal twist. Each brings its own unique vibe to the dish!
Spicy Kick: For those who like a little heat, a dusting of chili powder or a few red pepper flakes sprinkled over the grilled watermelon adds a surprising and delicious kick.
Seasonal Spin: Beyond lime, lemon zest or a splash of fresh orange juice can lend a seasonal citrus brightness, perfect for mixing things up all summer long.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Grilled Watermelon with Lime and Mint Recipe

The dish features several triangular slices of grilled watermelon with char marks on the red flesh and a thick green rind, arranged on a white textured oval plate. The watermelon slices are topped with small white crumbles of cheese and thin strips of fresh green herbs. Around and on top of the watermelon are scattered fresh blackberries and blueberries, adding deep purple and blue tones. Lime wedges with bright green skin and light yellow flesh are placed around the plate, along with a few sprigs of fresh mint leaves. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a soft, white woven cloth partially visible, and a small wooden bowl of coarse salt is nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Fire Up the Grill and Prep Your Watermelon

Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat—this is key to achieving those perfect, smoky char marks without turning the watermelon mushy. While the grill warms up, lightly brush the grill grates with olive oil. This not only prevents sticking but also adds a subtle richness. Meanwhile, slice your watermelon into 10 wedges about 1-inch thick each. Using firm but ripe watermelon here makes all the difference for grilling success!

Step 2: Grill Each Watermelon Wedge to Perfection

Place the watermelon wedges directly onto the hot grill. You’ll want to grill each side for about 3 minutes until you see those wonderful charred grill marks. The watermelon should be warm and slightly smoky but still juicy and intact. Keep an eye on them—if your grill runs hotter, watch closely so they don’t burn. The smell of that smoky sweetness will start to fill the air, letting you know you’re on the right track!

Step 3: Rest, Season, and Garnish

Once grilled, transfer your watermelon wedges to a serving platter and give them a few minutes to cool slightly—this helps the flavors settle. Squeeze fresh lime juice generously over each wedge for a zesty, tangy punch. Then sprinkle flaky sea salt to taste, which enhances the watermelon’s natural sweetness while balancing the smokiness. Scatter chopped fresh mint leaves on top for that bright, refreshing aroma. Now’s the time to add your optional touches like crumbled feta cheese or a drizzle of honey for extra flair and flavor.

Step 4: Serve Immediately and Enjoy!

Serve your grilled watermelon wedges right away for the best texture and taste. This dish is a standout side for any summer cookout or light meal, bringing a burst of smoky sweetness and vibrant freshness to your plate. Grab a lime wedge for squeezing on the side and dig in!

Top Tip

These tips come straight from my own summer grilling adventures and are sure to help you get the most delicious and beautiful results with this Grilled Watermelon with Lime and Mint Recipe.

Choose Firm Yet Ripe Watermelon: I’ve learned that using watermelon that’s ripe but still firm is key. Too soft, and it can get mushy on the grill instead of holding its shape and getting those perfect char marks.
Oil the Grill Grates Well: Brushing olive oil on the grill ensures the watermelon wedges don’t stick, making flipping easier and preserving those lovely grill lines.
Watch the Grill Time Closely: Grilling 3 minutes per side is the sweet spot—enough time to get a smoky char but not so long they lose their juicy freshness.
Don’t Skip the Lime Juice: Squeezing fresh lime over the warm wedges right off the grill really brightens the flavor and balances the sweetness wonderfully.

How to Serve Grilled Watermelon with Lime and Mint Recipe

A dark metal tray holds several triangular slices of watermelon arranged in neat rows, each slice showing a bright red juicy inside with a thin green rind. Around the watermelon slices, there are several lime wedges scattered, showing their green skins and light green flesh. On one side of the tray, there is a small white bowl filled with coarse white salt, and near it, a small white bowl holds a golden liquid, likely honey or syrup. A natural-bristle brush with a wooden handle lays next to the fruit. A sprig of fresh green mint leaves sits at the bottom corner of the tray. The tray rests on a white marbled surface, giving a clean and bright background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

To enhance this already vibrant dish, sprinkle plenty of chopped fresh mint leaves and flaky sea salt over the wedges. If you love a sweet-savory combo, add some crumbled feta cheese and a light drizzle of honey. The creamy feta gives a fantastic salty contrast, while honey adds a gentle touch of natural sweetness. Lime wedges on the side let guests control the tanginess to their liking.

Side Dishes

This grilled watermelon pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, spicy sausages, or fresh seafood to create a refreshing summer meal. It also works beautifully alongside light salads, quinoa bowls, or even as part of a vibrant picnic spread. Its smoky sweetness makes it a delightful counterpart to tangy slaws or creamy dips.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (though I doubt it!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind, grilled watermelon is best enjoyed fresh as it can become soggy and lose its vibrant texture quickly.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended for grilled watermelon since its high water content means it will get mushy and lose its appealing texture after thawing.

Reheating

If you want to gently warm the leftovers, a quick few seconds on a warm grill or under a broiler will revive some of the smoky char flavor. But reheating isn’t necessary — this dish is best served freshly grilled and slightly warm or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other fruits for grilling like this watermelon?

Absolutely! Fruits like peaches, pineapple, and even nectarines grill beautifully and develop lovely caramelization. Just adjust the grill time based on the fruit’s firmness and thickness.

Is feta cheese essential in this recipe?

Feta is optional but highly recommended for a delicious salty contrast. If you prefer dairy-free or milder flavors, simply omit it — the dish is fantastic on its own with lime and mint.

How do I prevent the watermelon from sticking to the grill?

Lightly brushing the grill grates with olive oil before heating and ensuring the grill is properly preheated are the best ways to keep watermelon wedges from sticking.

Can I prepare this recipe indoors if I don’t have a grill?

While grilling gives the smoky char that's signature to this dish, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop heated to medium-high with a bit of oil. Just watch the watermelon closely and flip carefully.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Watermelon with Lime and Mint Recipe is one of those delightful surprises—a simple twist that takes a classic summer fruit into delicious new territory. It’s quick to make, always gets compliments, and brings a burst of freshness with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or just craving something light and refreshing, this recipe has you covered. So fire up that grill, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this smoky, sweet, and juicy treat!