| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 290 | 12g | 6g | 45g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 32g | 2g | 7g | 0.6g |
If I had to pick my favorite fruit-based recipe, the Grilled Watermelon Pizza would certainly tickle my taste buds every single time. Boasting a brilliant amalgamation of summertime freshness and the smoky charm of grilling, this delightfully vibrant recipe will seem like a gastronomic vacation on a plate. Balancing the sweet juiciness of watermelon with the tang of balsamic, the creamy saltiness of feta, and the lush verdancy of basil; this dish harbors surprises aplenty.
Intrinsic Indulgence, Understated Elegance
During my culinary journey, which has been deeply influenced by my Maine roots, I’ve grown to appreciate the importance of simple ingredients. Just like a traditional New England clam chowder allows the flavors of the ocean to shine through, the Grilled Watermelon Pizza places the titular fruit at the heart of the dish. Encouraged by the warm embrace of the grill, the watermelon’s sweetness becomes more pronounced, and its firm-yet-tender texture is a joy to bite into.
A Dynamic Taste Symphony
The watermelon aside, every element in this recipe plays its unique part in creating an unparalleled flavor medley. The balsamic provides a tangy undertone, the feta lends it a subtle brininess, the basil a refreshing kick, and the onions a slight pungency. The finishing touch of strawberries and blueberries, both powerhouses of nutrition and flavor, add to the fruity harmony. Savory, sweet and spectacularly colorful to boot, this is a recipe that wholeheartedly embraces the festival of summer.
This dish reminds me of a certain strawberry mascarpone tart I love making for my daughters, Erin and Samantha, around this time of the year. However, Grilled Watermelon Pizza is certainly lighter on the stomach, not to mention being a tad healthier too. It should pair excellently with a refreshing Italian green salad, or you could even enjoy it as a standalone snack. Trust me, the first bite will transport you to food heaven.
More Than Just a Delicious Dish
The Grilled Watermelon Pizza is not only about tantalizing your taste buds but also about including a variety of health benefits. With watermelon being a rich source of vitamins A and C, as well as hydration, it serves as a boon for the skin, especially during the harsh summer. The berries, very high in antioxidants, aid in overall wellbeing and immunity. And as for basil, it has been known to have anti-inflammatory properties. Clearly, there’s more than what meets the eye or, in this case, the palate.
So if you’re looking for a whimsical yet wholesome addition to your summer spread, or a surefire conversation starter at your next garden party, I highly recommend giving the delightful Grilled Watermelon Pizza a spin in the kitchen. It’s a beautiful expression of seasonality, packed with diverse flavors and textures, and brimming with summertime cheer!
What You’ll Need
- 1/2 cup of balsamic vinegar
- 1 large watermelon cut into 6 round slices, about 1-inch thick
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese
- 1 cup of chopped fresh basil
- 1/2 cup of sliced red onions
- 1 cup of sliced fresh strawberries
- 1/2 cup of blueberries
- Optional: Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Method
Step One
Pour 1/2 cup of balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Let it simmer over medium heat until it becomes thick and reduced, this will take about 10-15 minutes. Once done, set it aside to cool.
Step Two
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the watermelon slices lightly with olive oil on both sides to prevent them from sticking to the grill.
Step Three
Place the watermelon slices onto the grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear. After cooking, move the slices to a work surface or serving platter.
Step Four
Start topping your grilled watermelon slices with 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese, 1 cup of chopped fresh basil, 1/2 cup of sliced red onions, 1 cup of sliced fresh strawberries, and 1/2 cup of blueberries. You can adjust the quantity of each topping based on your preference.
Step Five
Drizzle the reduced balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze, if using, over the topped watermelon slices. Be careful with how much you add, as balsamic vinegar can be quite strong.
Step Six
Serve your Grilled Watermelon Pizza right away for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy this refreshing, sweet and savory treat on a hot summer day!
