This super simple grilled watermelon with arugula and balsamic reduction dish is easy to make, beautiful, and delicious with fresh juicy charred watermelon, crunchy peppery arugula, and topped with a savory sweet balsamic glaze. I added a little sprinkle of goat cheese for an extra tang and dimension.

grilled watermelon with arugula

Ingredients

While this dish is best when watermelon is in season, you can technically make these any time of the year. I love to bring them to a Summer BBQ or picnic or lay them out as a beautiful appetizer for gatherings.

  • 1 small watermelon
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cups fresh arugula
  • 1/2 cup balsamic glaze
  • 1/4 cup goat cheese, optional
grilled watermelon with goat cheese and arugula

Instructions

These couldn’t be simpler to make. With just a few minutes of grill time and some toppings, they’re a show-stopping side dish or appetizer that will surely be a crowd-pleaser. These are best served fresh the same day and don’t keep well since they get a little soggy, so eat up and enjoy!

  1. Preheat a grill to medium-high. While the grill is heating, slice the watermelon into small squares about 2 inches wide.
  2. Lightly baste each square with a little olive oil so it won’t stick to the grill.
  3. Grill each watermelon slice for five minutes per side or until slightly charred and caramelized. Repeat with all remaining slices.
  4. Stack two slices of watermelon together. Top with fresh arugula, drizzle some balsamic glaze, and sprinkle some goat cheese if using.
  5. Serve fresh and enjoy!
grilled watermelon and balsamic

Try these other recipes:

Lemon Beetroot Hummus

Grilled Lion’s Mane Steak Ciabatta Sandwiches

Grilled Cauliflower Steaks with Chimichurri

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grilled watermelon

Grilled Watermelon with Arugula and Balsamic Reduction

Allison Crawford at The Hungry Carrot
This super simple grilled watermelon with arugula and balsamic reduction dish is easy to make, beautiful, and delicious with fresh juicy watermelon, crunchy peppery arugula, and topped with a savory sweet balsamic glaze. Perfect for BBQs, picnics, and a light summer appetizer.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 small watermelon
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cups fresh arugula
  • 1/2 cup balsamic glaze
  • 1/4 cup goat cheese, optional

Instructions
 

  • Preheat a grill to medium-high. While the grill is heating, slice the watermelon into small squares about 2 inches wide.
  • Lightly baste each square with a little olive oil so it won't stick to the grill.
  • Grill each watermelon slice for five minutes per side or until slightly charred and caramelized. Repeat with all remaining slices.
  • Stack two slices of watermelon together. Top with fresh arugula, drizzle some balsamic glaze, and sprinkle some goat cheese if using.
  • Serve fresh and enjoy!
Keyword grilled watermelon