Watermelon “Steak” Feta Skewers

Summer just got a whole lot more exciting with these Watermelon “Steak” Feta Skewers. Imagine juicy watermelon chunks grilled to perfection, paired with creamy, salty feta cheese, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze. This vibrant and refreshing appetizer is perfect for backyard barbecues, light lunches, or a stunning party platter. If you’re looking for a way to elevate watermelon beyond a simple snack, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your culinary rotation. It’s easy to make, visually appealing, and bursting with contrasting flavors that dance on your palate.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Watermelon “Steak” Feta Skewers are a beautiful marriage of sweet, savory, and tangy all in one bite. Grill marks on the watermelon add a smoky depth that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy feta. Plus, these skewers are incredibly versatile and easy to customize to your taste. They are perfect for those who want a lighter, refreshing option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The combination of watermelon and feta is a classic, but presenting it as skewers with a balsamic glaze elevates it to something special and unique.

This recipe is also visually stunning — the bright red watermelon, white feta cubes, and green herbs create a colorful presentation that will impress guests at any gathering. If you love experimenting with fresh, seasonal ingredients, these skewers fit right into a summer menu alongside other fresh recipes like a Frozen Watermelon Daiquiri Slush Mocktail for a complete refreshing experience.

Ingredients

• 4 cups watermelon, cut into thick “steak” cubes (about 1-inch thick)
• 8 oz feta cheese, cut into cubes similar in size to watermelon
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or balsamic reduction
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before grilling)

How To Make Watermelon “Steak” Feta Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Watermelon “Steaks”

Start by cutting your watermelon into thick cubes about 1 inch thick. These will mimic “steaks” when grilled, so aim for thick, sturdy pieces that hold together well. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better grill marks and prevents sticking.

Step 2: Season and Oil

Lightly brush the watermelon cubes with olive oil. This step is essential as it helps prevent the watermelon from sticking to the grill and adds a subtle richness. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper on each watermelon cube to enhance its natural sweetness.

Step 3: Grill the Watermelon

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the watermelon cubes on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side or until you see nice grill marks. Watermelon softens quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking. The goal is to have the watermelon warm with a slight smoky flavor, not mushy.

Step 4: Assemble the Skewers

Once the watermelon is grilled, start threading your skewers. Alternate between watermelon cubes and feta cubes to create a beautiful contrast. Add a fresh mint or basil leaf between some cubes to add fresh herbal notes and a pop of green color.

Step 5: Drizzle and Serve

Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with balsamic glaze or reduction, which adds a tangy sweetness that complements both the watermelon and feta. Garnish with extra fresh mint and basil leaves for a fresh finish. Serve immediately and enjoy the explosion of flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t cut the watermelon pieces too thin – thin slices won’t hold up on the grill and can become mushy.
• Avoid skipping the olive oil brush step; it helps with grilling and flavor.
• Don’t overcook the watermelon – aim for grill marks and slight warmth, not soft or falling apart.
• Use a good quality balsamic glaze or make your own; cheap or watery balsamic won’t provide the right flavor punch.
• Make sure feta is firm and not too crumbly to hold well on the skewers.

Variations and Customizations

• Add cherry tomatoes: For a burst of juiciness and color, add cherry tomatoes to the skewers.
• Use different herbs: Try swapping basil and mint for fresh thyme or oregano for a different twist.
• Spice it up: Sprinkle a pinch of chili flakes or drizzle some spicy harissa for a kick.
• Swap the cheese: For those who prefer, replace feta with halloumi or a firm goat cheese that grills well.
• Include cucumber slices: Add cucumber rounds for an extra refreshing crunch.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftover Watermelon “Steak” Feta Skewers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Due to the nature of watermelon, the texture may soften after a few hours, so it’s best to consume leftovers within 24 hours for optimal freshness. Keep the balsamic glaze separate until ready to serve to avoid sogginess. You can also store grilled watermelon and feta separately and assemble the skewers fresh the next day.

FAQ

Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

You can prepare the watermelon and feta cubes ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. However, grilling and assembling the skewers right before serving ensures the best texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to grill watermelon?

Grilling watermelon on medium-high heat for just a few minutes per side creates lovely grill marks and a smoky flavor without making the fruit mushy. Make sure to brush with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Can I use frozen watermelon for this recipe?

Fresh watermelon is best for grilling since frozen watermelon tends to become watery and lose its structure when thawed. If you want a refreshing twist, try pairing this dish with a Frozen Watermelon Daiquiri Slush Mocktail instead.

Is there a vegan alternative to feta for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use a plant-based feta alternative made from cashews or tofu. Just make sure it’s firm enough to hold on the skewers and pairs well with the watermelon’s sweetness.

Conclusion

Watermelon “Steak” Feta Skewers offer a fantastic blend of flavors and textures that are perfect for warm weather entertaining or a light, refreshing snack. The grilled watermelon’s smoky sweetness paired with creamy feta and fresh herbs creates a unique, mouthwatering bite that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or just craving something different, this recipe delivers easy elegance on a skewer. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy in every bite!

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