Juicy, sweet, crunchy and utterly refreshing—watermelon is one of my favorite fruits. In season and ready to enjoy, it appeals to kids and adults alike. Baby J and I have been savoring plenty of slices lately, but did you know you can cook with watermelon too? The recipes below are designed to hydrate and delight all summer long.
Growing up in the South, watermelon was the ideal treat on hot days. After hours of running through sprinklers and swimming, biting into a cold slice of seedless watermelon felt perfect. Watermelon’s appeal goes beyond its taste: it’s versatile. It pairs well with savory ingredients like balsamic vinegar and vegan feta, brightens with fresh herbs such as mint, and becomes irresistible with a pinch of salt.
But isn’t it just water?
Not at all. While watermelon is over 90% water, it also delivers important nutrients and few calories. It provides vitamin A and magnesium, and a serving supplies nearly 15% of the daily value for vitamin C. Because of its high water content, it helps keep you hydrated. Even the rind is useful—the tough outer layer is edible, high in fiber, and can be transformed into inventive recipes.
Mezcal Watermelon Margarita
This margarita is simple to make and hard to mess up. Swap mezcal for tequila if you prefer, but mezcal’s gentle smokiness pairs beautifully with fresh watermelon. Add a few jalapeño slices and a squeeze of lime to balance the melon’s sweetness and give the cocktail a lively kick.
Watermelon Smoothie
If you want the simplest, most refreshing drink, blend watermelon into a smoothie. That’s it—just fresh melon blended until smooth. For variety, add a splash of citrus, a handful of berries, or a sprig of mint for extra brightness.
Grilled Watermelon
Before you dismiss the idea, give grilled watermelon a try. Inspired by creative barbecue dishes, I brush wedges with a jerk marinade and place them on a hot grill. The heat caramelizes the sugars and adds a savory depth, creating a meaty, satisfying bite that works wonderfully atop a vegan seafood-style salad or as a bold side.
Watermelon Rind Relish
Don’t toss the rind—turn it into a tangy relish. This relish is fantastic on grilled vegan hot dogs and is an excellent way to reduce food waste. With just a few ingredients you can create a crunchy, flavorful condiment that highlights the underrated parts of the fruit.
Watermelon & Peach Salad
Combine watermelon and ripe peaches for a bright, chilled salad perfect for hot weather. Toss the fruit with a lime vinaigrette and sprinkle toasted pepitas for a satisfying crunch. The sweet, tangy and crunchy elements balance beautifully to create a refreshing side or light main.
Which of these watermelon preparations sounds best to you? Share your favorite ways to enjoy watermelon in the comments below—I’m always eager to try new ideas.