10 Sweet and Savory Watermelon Recipes to Enjoy All Summer

by Caitlin Beale

June 28, 2024

Photo Credit: Skinnytaste

Nothing screams summer like cool, refreshing watermelon. Not only is it super-hydrating (it’s about 92% water), it’s also loaded with vitamins A and C, to give your skin an extra summer glow. And while there’s nothing wrong with a simple slice of watermelon, there are so many other creative ways to add it to your hot-weather menu. From drinks to condiments, salads to sweets, watermelon might just be the little black dress of summer fruit. Here are 10 of our favorite watermelon recipes, some of which don’t require any cooking at all, perfect for those hot days.

1. Watermelon Feta Salad

Bring this light and refreshing salad, which combines watermelon, feta, arugula, and mint, to your next backyard barbecue and be prepared for your friends to ooh and ahh. No one needs to know it only takes 15 minutes to pull together.

Try this recipe from Skinny Taste.

2. Watermelon Margarita

It’s nice to enjoy a cocktail on a warm summer evening, but many mixed drinks have a lot of added sugar. This watermelon margarita uses the tiniest dash of maple syrup for sweetness, but if you want, leave it out and just enjoy the natural watermelon flavor.

Try this recipe from Against All Grain.

3. Watermelon “Tuna”

Wait, what? Yes, this vegan “tuna” is made from watermelon. Just marinate the cubed fruit in a mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, rice wine vinegar, and nori for 24 hours, then drain. Add it to a poke bowl, wrap, or any other place you’d enjoy tuna.

Try this recipe from Jessica in the Kitchen.

4. Watermelon Hot Sauce

Making your own hot sauce may sound daunting, but it’s easier than you think. This relatively mild sauce, made slightly sweet thanks to the watermelon, would be perfect with tacos, chicken wings, or anyplace else you like a touch of heat. It makes a really nice hostess gift, too.

Try this recipe from Snacking in Sneakers.

5. Watermelon Agua Fresca

Agua fresca is a popular drink in Mexico, perfect for hot days when you want to drink something but water doesn’t quite do it for you and regular fruit juice feels like too much. In this easy recipe, simply blend watermelon, water, and some optional sugar (we’d leave it out, or use a touch of honey), strain, and pour over ice. You can add a pinch of salt, some lime, and/or a little fresh mint, if you like.

Try this recipe from A Cozy Kitchen.

6. Easy Watermelon Popsicles

With just two simple ingredients (neither of which is sugar) and 10 minutes of prep, you’re on your way to the simplest super-refreshing popsicles. Add a pinch of salt when blending to brighten the flavor.

Try this recipe from Stacey Homemaker.

7. Grilled Watermelon

You’ve got the grill hot for dinner anyway, why not throw some watermelon wedges on, too? Brush wedges with a mix of lime and honey, grill, then sprinkle with cilantro. We’d add a sprinkle of Tajin for some heat.

Try this recipe from Downshiftology.

8. Mexican Watermelon and Cucumber Salad

Botanically, watermelon and cucumber are cousins, so it makes perfect sense to put both of these hydrating foods together in one salad. With chili lime-flavored pepitas and sliced red onion, plus a zesty vinaigrette, this bold salad is sweet, spicy, tangy, and so refreshing.

Try this recipe from Nom Nom Paleo.

9. Vegan Watermelon Gelato

“Nice cream” gets a fun twist with this refreshing, healthy recipe. Just blend frozen banana with watermelon, and you’re good to go. A touch of coconut nectar and/or cashew butter are optional. We’d add a pinch of salt, too.

Try this recipe from Dreena Burton.

10. Watermelon Fruit Pizza

Could this dessert be any cuter? Mix cream cheese, ricotta, and honey, spread on a slice of watermelon, top with fruit and shredded coconut, cut into wedges, and serve. It’s a perfect finale for a cookout.

Try this recipe from Feel Good Foodie.