30 Fresh Watermelon Recipes (Easy Ideas)

Take a bite out of summer with these fantastic watermelon recipes!

Watermelon is such a delicious and refreshing fruit. Its juicy flesh and sweet flavor make it a versatile ingredient. 

Best Watermelon Recipes

Watermelon is delicious in many recipes, from drinks to salads to desserts. You can even make watermelon pizza! 

But no matter which recipe(s) you try, one thing is for sure. These watermelon recipes will satisfy your need for something light and tasty!

Here are 30 of my favorite, easy watermelon recipes you can enjoy all summer.

1. Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta

This watermelon salad is a delightful summer salad. Every morsel is incredibly fresh and delicious. 

It combines sweet watermelon, crunchy cucumber, and the salty bite of feta cheese. 

The flavors in this salad marry together beautifully. And together, they make a perfect side dish or light lunch. 

This salad is fantastic served with crusty bread or over some greens. With a side of grilled chicken? You can’t ask for a better meal. 

2. 5-Minute Easy Watermelon Sorbet

You only need two ingredients to make this easy sorbet- watermelon and lime. 

Sweet and juicy watermelon provides the base for this refreshing sorbet. And the tangy lime adds just the right amount of tartness- for balance.

I like to include honey for a subtle depth of flavor and sweetness.

You can leave it out or use a different sweetener, like maple syrup or agave.

Serve the sorbet in chilled bowls. Or, better yet, scoop it into hollowed-out watermelon halves for a fun presentation!

3. Grilled Watermelon

You are missing out if you have not tried grilling your fruit! The char of the grill adds so much fabulous flavor. 

And grilled watermelon is no exception. It has a unique sweet and smoky flavor you will love. See, the grill caramelizes the watermelon’s natural sugars. 

And that results in pure deliciousness. 

Sprinkle it with sea salt, lime juice, and fresh mint for a refreshing summer dish. Hello, umami! 

Substitute the lime juice with balsamic vinegar for a tangier flavor.

4. Watermelon Popsicles

Watermelon popsicles are a healthy and refreshing treat, perfect for hot summer days. The kids will love them! 

And so will the adults. 

Watermelon, strawberry, and lime combine to create a flavor symphony. A little honey adds sweetness and complexity. 

Serve these popsicles as a dessert or a midday snack. 

5. Fresh Watermelon Cake

Now, this is a fun take on a cake! And there is absolutely no baking required. It is sweet, light, and much healthier than your average cake.

All you have to do is cut watermelon into the shape of a cake! Then, frost it with yummy vanilla bean whipping cream. 

And top it with mint and melon balls. You could also use fresh berries or any other fruit you like. 

Substitute whipped cream with Greek yogurt for an even healthier alternative. Or use coconut cream to make it vegan. 

6. Easy Watermelon Margarita

Watermelon + Margarita = the ultimate summer drink! 

You already know that watermelon and lime are a match made in flavor heaven. So, it makes sense to add frozen watermelon to a margarita!

All you have to do is blend it together. 

The salt rim provides a delicious contrast to the sweet and fruity drink. Serve it over ice with a garnish of fresh mint or lime wedges. 

Substitute tequila with vodka or rum for a different twist.

7. Watermelon Gazpacho

This delectable watermelon gazpacho takes chilled soup to new heights! 

This flavorful and healthy soup features a variety of pureed ingredients. It has tomatoes, cucumbers, garlic, onion, bread, and red pepper. Plus, watermelon. 

Blend it to your desired consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and cumin. This dish is simple but so flavorful. 

Serve the soup with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of feta cheese. 

8. Watermelon Lemonade

Quench your thirst with this ultra-refreshing watermelon lemonade. This is my new favorite summer beverage!

Every sip is a delicious balance of sweet and sour. The watermelon and the lemon taste fantastic together. 

Serve the lemonade over ice with a garnish of fresh mint or basil leaves. (Or both.) Substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a tasty twist.

9. Watermelon Tomato Caprese Salad

Watermelon tomato Caprese salad is a delightful and colorful dish that I absolutely love. 

It features traditional caprese ingredients- fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and olive oil. 

But it also has some fantastic, not-so-traditional ingredients- watermelon, lime juice, and cucumbers. HOLY YUM! 

Serve the salad cold, with a sprinkle of salt, red pepper flakes, and black pepper.  

This would be even more amazing with sliced avocado or grilled chicken.

10. Watermelon Sangria

Watermelon sangria is a fruity and refreshing cocktail. It is perfect for brunch, bridal showers, or a backyard barbecue. 

Or any event where you want to serve a fabulous, boozy, and scrumptious beverage. 

Watermelon is the fruity star of this drink. But orange and lime slices are the ideal accompaniment. 

For the booze, it has vodka, crisp white wine, and triple sec. It tastes like a sweet fruit salad- in drink form! 

Serve the sangria over ice with a garnish of fresh fruit and mint leaves.

11. Chocolate-Covered Watermelon Bites

The contrast between juicy watermelon and smooth chocolate is EVERYTHING in this dish. Talk about a satisfying and delicious treat! 

Serve them cold, with a sprinkle of sea salt or crushed nuts for extra texture. 

Substitute dark chocolate with milk chocolate for a milder flavor. Add a dash of cinnamon or chili powder for a spicy kick.

12. Watermelon Chocolate Smoothie

This watermelon chocolate smoothie is a delicious and healthy beverage. 

It truly is unexpected, with cacao powder, basil, and watermelon. But the flavors explode on your tongue. 

Dates add sweetness, and almond milk smooths everything out. This smoothie tastes rich and decadent. But it feels very light. 

But the health benefits will solidify this drink into my smoothie repertoire. It is hydrating and full of antioxidants, amino acids, and more. 

13. Frozen Watermelon Daiquiri

This daiquiri is the ultimate summer cocktail that is as refreshing as it is tasty. 

The recipe combines sweet and tropical flavors, with vibrant and juicy watermelon taking center stage. 

The lime adds a tangy twist, while the rum gives the drink a boozy kick. 

I like to add crushed ice for a slushy texture. It is perfect for beating the heat on a hot day!

14. Watermelon Rind Bhaji

Watermelon rind Bhaji is a unique and exciting Indian-inspired dish. But the best part is that it is no waste. 

Most people throw away their rinds. Or compost them (or give them to your chickens). But this dish uses them in a creative and tasty way!

Saute watermelon rinds in ghee with bold Indian spices. This creates a burst of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. 

And then, add some chiles for an extra kick of spice- who doesn’t love that?

15. Watermelon Skewers with Prosciutto

Watermelon and prosciutto make for a winning combination in these watermelon skewers. 

The saltiness of the prosciutto tastes fabulous with the fruity sweetness of the watermelon. 

Serve this crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next party or barbecue. Watch as your guests devour them.

16. Watermelon Salsa

Watermelon salsa bursts with flavor combinations that take your taste buds on a wild ride. 

This salsa is pico de gallo (onions, jalapenos, cilantro, lime)- sans tomatoes. But you use watermelon instead! 

Oh, and you add a bit of mint as well. 

Every bite hits you with a refreshing crunch and juicy sweetness. Plus, a little heat. This stuff is stellar with salty tortilla chips! 

17. Watermelon Pizza

Like the cake from earlier, this simple dish is not what the name implies. You will not find any tomato sauce, pizza dough, or cheese here. 

Rather, this unique “pizza” is like a healthy fruit pizza. But instead of a cookie crust, use a disk of watermelon!

Then, smother it with a delicious Greek yogurt and cream cheese sauce. Finally, add your toppings! 

What I love about this recipe is that it works well with everything. 

You can use berries, oranges, kiwis- whatever fruit you like best. You can even add chocolate chips. 

18. Watermelon Pina Colada

This fun twist on the pina colada is absolutely to live for! 

It is light, refreshing, and tropical. The watermelon, coconut, and pineapple work so well together. And rum ties everything together.

Every sip will transport your taste buds straight to a sunny beach vacation.

19. Watermelon Feta Orzo Salad

Reading through this list, you may have noticed a trend. Watermelon and feta are an iconic duo. 

In addition, this salad features red onion, lemon, orzo, and mint. Toss everything in a lemon balsamic dressing, and dig in!

This salad is perfect for hot days when you want a light yet satisfying meal. It is also easy to customize. 

You can substitute the orzo for quinoa or couscous. Or, add other ingredients like grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.

20. Chili Lime Watermelon

Chili lime watermelon can make even the most skeptical taste buds tingle. It is THAT good.  

The contrast between the watermelon and the chili lime seasoning creates an explosion of taste. It is sweet, spicy, tangy, and savory!

I swear, it is impossible to resist. 

21. Two-Ingredient Watermelon Ice Cream

Frozen watermelon and canned coconut milk. Those are all you need to make this chilly vegan treat! 

Puree the watermelon in a blender or food processor. When it is smooth, add in the coconut milk. Blend again to incorporate. 

And that’s it! It is ready to enjoy. 

If you want sweeter ice cream, use sweetened condensed milk instead of coconut milk. 

22. Watermelon Fries with Lime Tajin Dip

Who said you can’t enjoy fries and dip when you’re trying to eat healthier? Not me! You only have to change your perception a little. 

And this is the perfect dish to do it! 

The fries are simple watermelon matchsticks. And the dip is a creamy combo of Greek yogurt, lime, honey, and mint. 

Dust the dip with Tajin, then sprinkle the watermelon with salt and Tajin. 

These fries make for a great party snack or appetizer. But you can also serve them as a light and healthy dessert.

23. Quinoa Mint Salad with Watermelon and Feta

When creating the perfect salad, the combination of flavors is essential. 

You will experience an exciting mix of sweet and savory flavors in this mouthwatering salad. 

The juicy sweetness of the watermelon pairs perfectly with the tangy feta cheese. The refreshing mint adds a bright and herbaceous touch.

24. Easy Green Apple Watermelon Shots

Are you looking for a unique shot to liven up your next party? Then, I have the perfect recipe for you. 

Sweet watermelon and tart green apple will have your taste buds dancing. And the alcohol will get the rest of your body dancing! 

Every sip is a burst of refreshing goodness! And boozy fun. 

25. Balsamic Watermelon Chicken Salad

The flavors in this yummy watermelon balsamic salad work in delightful harmony. And it provides a perfect balance of protein and hydration.

The stars of this salad are grilled chicken and fresh watermelon. This may be a surprising combo. But it is delectable! 

Add them to a bed of spinach, and you have the base of this salad. Top it with blue cheese crumbles, sliced almonds, and a balsamic reduction.

26. Watermelon Candied Bacon Salad

I know what you’re thinking, “Ugh- not another salad!” But trust me when I say that this is not your average salad. 

Watermelon pairs serendipitously with the flavorful crunch of candied bacon. Lettuce and basil add a bright, herbaceous note. 

And feta cheese provides a nice contrast to the sweetness. Top it all with a tangy vinaigrette for the perfect bite. 

Serve this salad at your next cookout or potluck, and watch it disappear in seconds. #everythingisbetterwithbacon

27. Watermelon Granitas

Watermelon granitas are a fantastic summer treat that will leave you refreshed and satisfied. 

Granita is like a sorbet. But instead of being smooth, it is icy and flaky. Think of it as a more solid and elegant slushie. 

This one is bright with watermelon and lime flavors. 

28. Shrimp Tacos with Watermelon Pineapple Salsa

These shrimp tacos are a must-try if you love sweet and savory combos! The two main components, salsa and shrimp, balance each other well. 

The salsa is fruity and sharp. It has watermelon, pineapple, radish, cucumber, apple cider vinegar, lime, honey, cilantro, and kale. 

The shrimp is flavorful with seasonings like garlic, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. 

And together? It tastes like a tropical dream!

29. Berry Watermelon Fruit Salad

This salad is delicious and healthy. It is an excellent choice for a summer snack or dessert. 

To serve, I suggest adding a dollop of whipped cream. Or enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. 

Substitute the berries with other fruits if you want to switch things up. I like peaches or kiwis. Or do it all for the ultimate fruit salad! 

30. Watermelon Pie

Watermelon pie may seem like an unlikely dessert. But I promise this no-bake pie is so tasty, you’ll lick your plate. (No judgment- we all do it!)

This pie has a sweet and buttery graham cracker crust. But the filling is the real treat here. 

It is like a watermelon Jello fluff salad. You only need Cool Whip, watermelon gelatin, and fresh watermelon. 

Make the gelatin and let it cool. Then, fold in the creamy whipped topping and watermelon chunks. Add it to the pie crust and refrigerate for 2 hours. 

Enjoy!