Summer is made for two things: grilling and melon! Fresh cut summer melon is a simple and delicious side dish to make any dinner sweeter, and it’s perfect as a hydrating snack. But, if you’ve never tried grilled melon, you’re missing out!
Why You’ll Love Grilled Melon Skewers
Grilling elevates watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew to more complex heights. The high heat caramelizes the flesh of the melon, resulting in a smoky-sweet flavor that’s simply delicious. Drizzled with honey and sprinkled with just a bit of salt, grilled melon cubes are beautiful, nutritious, and so tasty as an appetizer or paired with simple summer meals.
Tips For Success on Grilled Melon
In addition, if you’re using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to avoid them catching on fire or turning to a pile of ash on the grill.
Then, cut uniform pieces of melon so that each piece makes contact with the grill.
Use high heat for just a short period of time. You want to get a little char on the outside without turning the inside of the melon to mush.
Also, I like to use a grill mitt so that I can easily rotate the skewers using my hands instead of tongs.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have all three types of melon, use whatever you have. Just one or two kinds will still be delicious!
If you like spicy food, try sprinkling a pinch of crushed red pepper on the melon after grilling.
Make it a meal!
Thread some shrimp onto skewers to grill alongside the melon.
Toss this melon with your spring mix or arugula and whole milk mozzarella for a simple and delicious salad.
Toss with cooked quinoa for a hearty grain salad.
Use as a topper for grilled chicken or salmon.
Grilled Melon Skewers
Prep Time
Cook Time
Serves: 4
Ingredients
-1 cup cubed watermelon
-1 cup cubed honeydew melon
-1 cup cubed cantaloupe
-1 tbsp avocado oil
-1/4 tsp kosher salt
For serving (optional): honey, kosher salt, fresh mint or basil
Instructions
1. First, if you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat grill to high heat.
3. Cut melon into uniform one-inch cubes and place in a bowl. Toss with avocado oil and salt. Thread melon onto skewers, alternating watermelon, honeydew and cantaloupe.
4. Grill melon for 1-2 minutes per side, using tongs or a grill mitt to turn the skewers.
5. Finally, remove from the grill and drizzle with honey, then sprinkle with salt and fresh mint, basil, or both (optional).
Enjoy your Grilled Melon!
By: Kaleigh McMordie, MCN, RD