If you think watermelon is just for fresh-eating, wait until you try this Grilled Watermelon with Mint and Honey Recipe. The smoky char combined with juicy sweetness and a hint of mint brings out a whole new side of this summer classic that you have to taste to believe.

The image shows a white oval plate with several triangular pieces of grilled watermelon. Each watermelon slice has three layers: a bright red juicy flesh with black grill marks on top, a thin white rind layer in the middle, and a green outer skin at the bottom. The watermelon pieces are scattered on the plate, some resting on fresh green mint leaves and accompanied by small lime wedges placed between the slices. On the left side, there is a small wooden bowl filled with coarse white salt and a white textured cloth beneath it. The whole setting is on a white marbled surface, giving a fresh and clean look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Grilled Watermelon with Mint and Honey Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Grilled Watermelon with Mint and Honey Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Grilled Watermelon with Mint and Honey Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I remember the first time I grilled watermelon at a backyard cookout — it was an absolute game-changer. That simple act of grilling transforms watermelon into a smoky, sweet, juicy treat that feels both refreshing and indulgent.

Perfect summer side: It’s light, bright, and pairs fantastically with just about any grilled meat or vegetarian main.
Quick and easy: You’re looking at just 10 minutes total from grill to table, making it a breeze to whip up.
Flavor-packed: The smoky char, fresh mint, tangy lime, and a drizzle of honey create an irresistible combo.
Customizable: Add crumbled feta for a salty punch or skip it for a vegan-friendly option.

Ingredients & Why They Work

To get the best results, I always go for a firm, seedless watermelon and gather fresh mint for that vibrant herbal note. Olive oil preps the grill perfectly without overpowering the natural sweetness. Each ingredient plays its part to keep the flavors balanced and fresh.

Flat lay of ten fresh watermelon wedges cut into thick triangles, a small white bowl of golden honey, vibrant lime wedges, bright green fresh mint leaves scattered neatly, a small white bowl filled with flaky sea salt crystals, a small white bowl with crumbled white feta cheese, all arranged in perfect symmetry on simple white ceramic dishes and bowls, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Watermelon wedges: Firm and seedless is best so they hold together nicely on the grill and don’t get mushy.
Olive oil: Used to brush the grill grates; it prevents sticking and helps create those perfect char marks.
Lime wedges: Adds a zesty brightness that cuts through the sweetness and enhances the smoky flavors.
Flaky sea salt: Sprinkled on top to bring out the sweetness and add just the right amount of savory contrast.
Chopped fresh mint leaves: For a refreshing herbal garnish that complements the smoky watermelon beautifully.
Crumbled feta cheese (optional): Adds a salty, tangy contrast that pairs surprisingly well with the sweet and smoky fruit.
Honey (optional): A drizzle adds an extra layer of sweetness and depth; you can also swap for agave syrup if you want a vegan option.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Grilled Watermelon with Mint and Honey Recipe is how easy it is to tailor it to your taste buds or dietary preferences. Feel free to play around with the toppings and tweaks to make it uniquely yours!

Feta-Free Twist: If you’re dairy-free or just not a fan of cheese, skip the feta and amp up the freshness with extra mint or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick. I’ve found that this really highlights the smoky sweetness of the watermelon beautifully.
Sweet & Savory Combo: When I first tried drizzling honey over the grilled wedges, it added this subtle floral sweetness that perfectly balanced the smoky char and tangy lime—definitely worth trying if you like a little sweetness with your savory.
Vegan Option: Replace honey with agave syrup to keep it vegan-friendly without sacrificing that luscious glaze effect.
Fresh Herbs: Besides mint, I’ve experimented with basil or even a mix of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a bright, herbaceous variation.
Seasonal Flair: During warmer months, adding a few fresh berries or pomegranate seeds on top gives a beautiful burst of color and freshness that guests love at summer gatherings.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Grilled Watermelon with Mint and Honey Recipe

The image shows a white oval plate filled with several triangular slices of grilled watermelon, each slice having a charred texture with dark grill marks on the bright red flesh and a thick pale green rind. The watermelon slices are topped with small white crumbly cheese pieces and thin strips of fresh green mint scattered on top. Interspersed among the watermelon are whole blackberries and blueberries, adding deep black and blue hues that contrast with the red and green of the watermelon. Lime wedges with vibrant green skin and pale green inner flesh are placed around the plate, adding a fresh, citrus look. Around the plate, there are loose mint leaves, a wooden bowl with coarse white salt, and a honey dipper with golden honey resting on the right side, all set on a white marbled surface. The photo is taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Grill

Before you do anything, get your grill heating up to a medium-high temperature. This usually means the grill grates feel hot to the touch but not glowing red. Take a clean brush or a paper towel dipped in olive oil to lightly coat the grill grates. This simple step is crucial—it keeps the watermelon from sticking and helps those perfect char marks develop.

Step 2: Grill the Watermelon Wedges

Arrange your 1-inch thick watermelon wedges directly on the hot grill. Let them cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until you see beautiful, visible grill marks. You’ll notice the watermelon takes on a slightly smoky aroma and warms up, becoming juicier and even sweeter. Be patient here—moving them too soon can cause them to stick or tear.

Step 3: Garnish and Serve

Once grilled, transfer the wedges to a serving platter and let them cool for a few minutes—not too long, though, as they’re best enjoyed fresh and warm. Give each wedge a squeeze of fresh lime juice to add a zesty brightness, then sprinkle with flaky sea salt and chopped fresh mint leaves. If you want to add extra layers of flavor, scatter on some crumbled feta cheese and lightly drizzle honey. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and refreshing tastes.

Top Tip

These simple tips will help you get the most out of your Grilled Watermelon with Mint and Honey Recipe, ensuring those perfect smoky char marks and vibrant flavors every single time.

Choosing Watermelon: I always pick a firm, seedless watermelon for grilling — it holds its shape better and grills up beautifully without turning mushy.
Prevent Sticking: Brushing the grill grates with olive oil before grilling really made a difference for me; it keeps the watermelon wedges intact and prevents any frustrating sticking.
Grill Timing: Grilling each side for just 2 to 3 minutes hits the sweet spot — long enough to get those lovely char marks and a subtle smoky flavor but short enough to keep the juicy texture.
Flavor Balance: I avoid adding too much honey upfront; a light drizzle after grilling lets you taste that natural smoky sweetness without overpowering the fresh lime and mint.

How to Serve Grilled Watermelon with Mint and Honey Recipe

A dark tray filled with several bright red watermelon slices with white and green rinds arranged in overlapping layers, each slice showing a textured, juicy surface. Small yellow-green lime wedges are scattered among the watermelon pieces. On the right side of the tray, there is a wooden brush resting on a watermelon slice and a small white bowl filled with coarse salt. On the bottom right corner, fresh green mint leaves add a pop of color. On the bottom left is a small glass bowl with light golden honey. The tray is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh is the name of the game here — bright lime wedges squeezed over warm watermelon really wake up the dish. Sprinkle generously with chopped fresh mint for a cooling contrast. For a savory twist, crumbled feta adds a creamy, salty pop, while a light drizzle of honey delivers an irresistible touch of sweetness. Don’t forget a pinch of flaky sea salt to pull all those flavors together perfectly.

Side Dishes

This grilled watermelon pairs wonderfully alongside grilled chicken or fish, fresh green salads, or even a tangy quinoa salad to keep your summer meal light and refreshing. It’s also fantastic as a palate-cleansing side at a barbecue, balancing smoky meats with juicy, sweet fruit.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover grilled watermelon, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days, though I recommend enjoying it as soon as possible for the juiciest, best texture.

Freezing

Freezing grilled watermelon isn’t the best option since the high water content leads to a mushy texture once thawed. For the freshest experience, it’s best to enjoy this recipe fresh off the grill.

Reheating

If you want to warm up leftover grilled watermelon, briefly reheat it on a medium-high grill for 1 to 2 minutes per side or in a hot skillet—just enough to bring back warmth without overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I grill watermelon wedges ahead of time?

While you can grill the watermelon ahead, it's best served shortly after grilling to enjoy the perfect balance of warm smoky flavor and juicy texture. If needed, store leftovers in the refrigerator and serve within 2 days.

What if I don't have fresh mint—can I substitute it?

Fresh mint adds a refreshing brightness, but if you don't have it, fresh basil or cilantro can work as alternatives, though the flavor profile will change slightly.

Is feta cheese necessary for this recipe?

Feta cheese is optional. It adds a salty, creamy contrast that complements the sweetness and smokiness. You can omit it for a dairy-free version or if you prefer a lighter side dish.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply skip the feta cheese and replace honey with agave syrup or your favorite vegan sweetener for that lovely sweetness without animal products.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Watermelon with Mint and Honey Recipe is one of those delightful surprises — simple ingredients come together to create something truly memorable. Whether it’s a casual cookout or a special summer gathering, this dish brings smoky sweetness, fresh herbs, and a touch of tang that’s hard to resist. I hope it becomes a favorite in your kitchen, just like it has in mine!