5 Tasty Watermelon Recipes for National Watermelon Day

As the sun blazes and summer reaches its peak, there’s no better time to celebrate National Watermelon Day than with these five irresistible recipes. From refreshing drinks to savory surprises, we’ve got your family covered with these delightful watermelon creations. Let’s dive into the juicy goodness!

1. Watermelon Mint Cooler

Beat the heat with this invigorating drink that’ll transport you to a tropical paradise!

Ingredients:

• 6 cups cubed watermelon
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 cups sparkling water
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Blend watermelon, mint, and lime juice until smooth.
2. Strain the mixture into a large pitcher.
3. Add sparkling water and stir gently.
4. Serve over ice, garnished with mint sprigs and watermelon wedges.

Serving suggestion: Pour into chilled glasses for the ultimate refreshment. This recipe serves 6-8 people.

2. Grilled Watermelon and Feta Salad

A perfect balance of sweet and savory, this salad will be the talk of your summer gatherings!

Ingredients:

• 1 large watermelon, cut into 1-inch thick triangles
• 2 cups crumbled feta cheese
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush watermelon slices with olive oil and grill for 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Arrange grilled watermelon on a large platter.
4. Top with crumbled feta, red onion, and basil.
5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and season with salt and pepper.

Serving suggestion: Serve immediately while the watermelon is still warm. This salad serves 8-10 people.

3. Watermelon Gazpacho

A unique twist on the classic Spanish soup, perfect for hot summer days!

Ingredients:

• 8 cups cubed watermelon
• 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 red onion, chopped
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh mint for garnish

Instructions:

1. Blend 6 cups of watermelon until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, combine cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and remaining watermelon.
3. Mix blended watermelon with the chopped vegetables.
4. Stir in olive oil, vinegar, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

Serving suggestion: Garnish with a sprinkle of feta cheese and fresh mint. Serves 6-8 people.

4. Watermelon Pizza

A fun, no-bake dessert that’s sure to delight both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients:

• 1 large round watermelon slice (about 1-inch thick)
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 2 tablespoons shredded coconut

Instructions:

1. Pat the watermelon slice dry with paper towels.
2. Mix Greek yogurt with honey and spread over the watermelon.
3. Top with berries, almonds, and coconut.
4. Slice into wedges and serve immediately.

Serving suggestion: For an extra special touch, drizzle with a bit more honey before serving. This “pizza” serves 6-8 people.

5. Watermelon Rind Curry

Don’t toss those rinds! Transform them into this unique and flavorful curry.

Ingredients:

• Rinds from 1 large watermelon, outer green skin removed, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch ginger, grated
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 can coconut milk
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
2. Add tomatoes and curry powder, cook for 2 minutes.
3. Add watermelon rinds and coconut milk. Simmer for 20-25 minutes until rinds are tender.
4. Season with salt and garnish with cilantro.

Serving suggestion: Serve hot with steamed rice or naan bread. This curry serves 6-8 people.

These watermelon recipes are sure to make your National Watermelon Day celebration unforgettable. From the refreshing Watermelon Mint Cooler to the surprising Watermelon Rind Curry, there’s something for everyone in your family to enjoy. So grab a watermelon and start creating these delicious dishes!