How many of us have simply passed over our old favourite fruit, the watermelon, at the grocery store lately? Most of us just don’t think of it as something to cook with — but that’s all about to change! With its unique sweet-and-savoury flavour combination, watermelon steak is the perfect way to make a classic dish into something special. Whether it is served on its own or as an accompaniment to an outdoor barbecue, this sizzling watermelon steak will have everyone talking!
1. A Unique Take on a Classic – Sizzling Watermelon Steak
This summer, spice up your backyard BBQs with . It’s a delicious, vegan-friendly option that’s sure to wow your guests.
Made with a combination of juicy watermelon and enticing flavour combinations, this recipe brings out a truly unique flavour profile. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Watermelon
- Salt & Pepper
- Garlic powder
- Chili flakes
- Olive oil
Start by prepping your watermelon by cutting it into thick, steak-like slices. Season each side of the slices with a pinch of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chili flakes. Then, brush the surface with a light coating of olive oil.
Next, preheat your grill or griddle to medium-high heat. Place the seasoned watermelon steaks on the preheated surface and cook for 4-5 minutes per side. When done, remove from heat and serve.
2. An Unexpected Play on a Summertime Favourite
Summertime is all about cool, refreshing dishes, but you don’t have to settle for a boring dish. Take your favorite summery dish and give it an unexpected twist for a delicious surprise.
- One way to spice things up is to use different spices than you normally would. Try a few drops of hot sauce on your grilled avocado for a flavor that you never thought of before.
- Grilled fruit is a great way to combine the warmth of summer grilling with the naturally sweet flavors of your favorite fruits. Try grilling watermelon with a little brown sugar and lime for an irresistible treat.
You can also experiment with toppings to take your dish to the next level. Crumbled bacon is a great way to elevate a simple summer salad and will add a delightful smoky flavor. If you want something a bit more unique, sprinkle a little feta cheese over grilled peaches for a sweet and salty combination.
3. The Great Debate: What Is a Watermelon Steak?
The debate among watermelon aficionados has lingered for centuries—a challenge that has yet to be fully answered: what is a watermelon steak?
Arguments abound as to the identity of a watermelon steak:
- The Classicist: A watermelon steak is a combination of the two classic summer grilling staples: watermelon and steak. Think of a juicy piece of steak-shaped watermelon, tenderly grilled to perfection on the barbecue.
- The Purist: A watermelon steak is a single and unmarred piece of fresh watermelon, sliced and grilled to highlight the natural flavor. Some of these purists may even opt to leave the rind on while grilling.
- The Realist: Careful questioning reveals that many of the realists among us may recognize the oxymoron in the title: watermelon steak. They dismiss the idea of watermelon steak altogether, believing that something so singularly and subtly delicious should remain unchanged (i.e. not grilled).
The debate continues to this day, but ultimately, the decision as to what constitutes a watermelon steak remains a resounding personal one. No matter how you slice it, watermelon is an essential summer staple.
4. Preparing Watermelon Steak: Tips and Tricks
Watermelon steak is a delicious treat that’s perfect for summer grilling. To get the most out of your watermelon steak, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind:
- Choose the Right Watermelon: Select a watermelon that is firm and ripe. The rind should be smooth, dull, and give slightly when you press your finger on the surface.
- Trim the Edges: After cutting it into steaks, be sure to trim off any white parts that remain as they won’t cook evenly.
- Marinate: If desired, marinate the steak in your favorite sauce for a minimum of one hour.
- Grill Over Medium Heat: Once on the grill, set the heat to medium and watch cook evenly. This will take approximately 5-7 minutes on each side.
When finished, you’ll be left with juicy, mouth-watering steaks that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. To top it off, you’ll discover how easy and delicious watermelon steaks can be when you follow these simple tips and tricks.
5. Pushing Taste Buds: What Toppings Can Make Watermelon Steak Shine
Watermelon steaks are not only a great source of vitamins and minerals, but they pack a surprising amount of flavor! With the right toppings, you can turn an ordinary watermelon steak into a creative and delicious gourmet meal. Here are some ideas to get your taste buds bursting:
- Pomegranate seeds: Bright and tangy pomegranate seeds add a light and fruity flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet-tart taste of watermelon. Sprinkle a small handful of arils and you’re ready to go!
- Lemon and lime wedges: A squeeze of lemon and lime juice gives the steak a subtle hint of citrus. Adding wedges of the two fruit to the steak not only makes it look even more appetizing, but gives it a boost of vitamin C, too.
- Herbs: Brighten the flavor of the steak with freshly chopped herbs like mint, basil, or oregano. Different herbs have various flavors that can make the steak taste different each time you eat it!
- Feta cheese: A sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese on top adds a creamy and slightly salty taste. For an even more decadent experience, you can also add some toasted pine nuts and drizzle with olive oil.
These are just some of the creative toppings you can use to make watermelon steak shine. Try experimenting with different flavors and combinations to find what works best for you – you’ll be sure to “meat” your taste buds’ expectations in no time!
6. An Update on an Oldie-But-Goody: Watermelon Steak On the Grill
The Bar-B-Que Masters are at it Again! Watermelon Steak on the Grill is a summer classic that never goes out of style. Perfectly healthy, tasty, and easy to make, this zesty treat is sure to make your next alfresco event a hit. Here are some tips to make your next Watermelon Steak an unforgettable experience:
- Before grilling, slice a large watermelon into thick rounds, then cut each round into triangles.
- Add some lime and sea salt to your steak pieces for a flavor boost.
- Cook your watermelon steaks on the grill over low heat, flipping frequently to get a nice char.
For an extra kick, drizzle grilled steak pieces with spicy honey or your favorite citrus marinade. You and your guests will love the sweetness of the watermelon with a little zest from the marinade. Serve these delicious steaks with chips, a side salad, or a layer of freshly sliced mango. Delicious and sure to be a crowd pleaser, Watermelon Steaks on the Grill will keep your next barbecue event the talk of the town!
7. You’ve Never Had Watermelon Like This: Top 5 Watermelon Recipes to Try
Watermelon is one of the most beloved summertime fruits, but there are endless possibilities for cooking with it, too! There are traditional recipes like pickled watermelon and watermelon salsa, and some more out-of-the-box ideas, like watermelon wedges with a savory rub. Whether you’re looking for a yummy side dish for your summer BBQ or a creative way to incorporate the sweet, juicy watermelon into an existing recipe, there’s something for everyone.
We’ve rounded up our top five favorite watermelon recipes you can try this summer:
- Watermelon Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Grilled cheese and watermelon? Yes, please! This unique sandwich combines tart feta, savory herbed cream cheese, and sweet watermelon, cooked to perfection. Try it for lunch or as an appetizer.
- Watermelon Soup: This cool, refreshing soup is perfect for a hot summer day. Blend up fresh watermelon with Greek yogurt, agave nectar, and a hint of lime and serve with a basil sprig. It’s vegan, too!
- Watermelon Gazpacho: For the ultimate in summertime refreshment, try this cool gazpacho. Start with a base of diced watermelon, and then add diced bell peppers and jalapenos, plus a splash of balsamic vinegar. For a unique garnish, add crumbled salty feta.
- Watermelon Salsa: This one is a classic. Chop up fresh watermelon, diced onions, and cilantro, and mix in a pinch of salt and a squeeze of fresh lime. Serve with chips or over grilled fish, chicken, or veggies.
- Chilled Watermelon Pie: This sweet and creamy no-bake pie is sure to be a hit! Simply blend watermelon, lime juice, and honey, pour into a graham cracker crust and refrigerate until set. Top with fresh whipped cream and sliced almonds.
8. Unlocking the Potential of Water: Ways to Enjoy Watermelon Steak
Watermelon steak is a delicious, sweet, and juicy treat. Not only is it tasty, but it is also extremely versatile, with many potential uses. Here are a few ways to unlock the potential of this unique food and enjoy it to the fullest.
Marinating: With its firm texture, watermelon steak is a great base for marinades. It can be marinated in herbs, spices, oils, and other flavors, making it perfect for grilling, barbecuing, or even serving raw in salads.
In Salads:
- Cut into cubes and add to your summer salads for added sweetness and flavor.
- Grate over green salads for added crunch and sweetness.
- Mix with diced fruits and vegetables for a healthy, sweet, and crunchy salad.
On the Grill: Whether you want a sweet or savory taste, watermelon steak is perfect for grilling. Slice it into cubes and season as desired, then place on a hot grill for a few minutes. Serve it with other grilled vegetables, rice, or your favorite fruits and herbs. You can even sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon if you feel really adventurous.
Making Smoothies: Not a fan of cubes? Try blending the steak into a sweet and refreshing smoothie. Pair the cubes with other fruits, such as mango, banana, and pineapple, and a couple of ice cubes to chill it down. Add a dollop of yogurt or honey for sweetness and you will have a delicious smoothie to enjoy.
9. Combining the Fruits of Your Labour: Create Watermelon Steak Dishes with Ingredients You Already Have
Watermelon steak dishes are the perfect way to enjoy the fruits of your labour. Celebrate a bountiful harvest with a unique twist on the usual beef steak dishes. With the right combination of ingredients, you can create a delightful medley of flavors using only items found right at home.
Before you start crafting your steak dishes, take some time to plan ahead. Consider which ingredients you have on hand and what flavors or seasonings you would like to incorporate. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Tomatoes – sautéed with garlic and oregano for a Mediterranean twist
- Mushrooms – slow cooked for earthy, savory flavors
- Onions – pan-seared with rosemary and balsamic vinegar
Once you have chosen your ingredients, the fun part begins! Grill your steak slices to your preferred texture and toss with some of your favorite seasonings. For a unique touch, you can also add some freshly cut watermelon chunks to the skillet. As the melon cooks, it starts to caramelize, giving the steak a slightly sweet, smoky flavor. Serve your steaks over a bed of fluffy rice and a side of roasted vegetables for an amazing dining experience.
10. Innovation and Inspiration: Taking Watermelon Steak to the Next Level
Watermelon steak is an interesting new concept in the culinary world. Its flavor pairing possibilities are limitless and its vivid red hue adds an artistic touch to a plate. But how can you take your watermelon steak to the next level of innovation and inspiration? Here are some tips:
- Opt for a thicker cut to create a more substantial steak.
- Try grilled, smoked, seared and raw – experiment with different techniques!
- Combine with the right seasonings. Think herbs, spices, salt, and citrus.
You can also draw inspiration from your favorite cuisines to pair with watermelon steak. For instance, try pairing it with Japanese cuisine by pressing it onto a teppanyaki grill and adding teriyaki sauce. Or, use it in a Mexican dish by slicing it into burrito-size pieces and adding a savory topping of guacamole, cilantro, and lime. The possibilities are endless when you start to get creative with such a versatile ingredient.
If you are looking to mix up your routine this summer, why not give watermelon steak a try? With its unique flavor and its pleasant crunch, this unexpected summertime staple is sure to be a crowd pleaser! Plus, why wouldn’t you want to satisfy your sweet tooth while also enjoying the classic favorite? Treat your loved ones to some sizzling watermelon steak this summer and remember: don’t knock it ’til you’ve tried it!
Hi, my name is Luke Mitchell and I am a travel blogger based in Brisbane, Australia. I am the owner and creator of Arfra.org, the best blog about everything related to traveling in Australia. I have always had a passion for exploring new places and cultures and I decided to turn that passion into a career. I started Arfra.org to share my experiences and help others plan their own adventures in Australia.
I have traveled extensively throughout Australia and have a wealth of knowledge and tips to share. From the rugged outback to the beautiful beaches, I have been there and done that. I am also always on the lookout for the latest and greatest in the travel industry, so my readers can always expect to find the latest information on everything from hotels and resorts to tours and activities.
In my blog, I cover a wide range of topics including budget travel, luxury travel, family travel, and solo travel. I also share information on the best places to eat, drink, and shop, as well as the best outdoor activities and attractions.
When I am not traveling, you can find me in Brisbane where I call home. I love the city’s laid-back atmosphere and the great food and coffee scene. I also enjoy spending time with my friends and family, and taking my dog for long walks along the river.