When it comes to summer dining, nothing is more iconic than a gigantic watermelon cut into thick wedges and eaten outside with rolled-up sleeves (followed by a seed-spitting contest if that’s your jam).
But when you bring watermelon into the kitchen, magical things can happen. From frozen desserts that totally satisfy your sweet tooth to savory dishes that pop with just a little bit of sweetness, watermelon is surprisingly versatile.
Of course, when the sun is shining outside, the last thing you want to do is stay cooped up in a hot kitchen. That’s why we chose these easy recipes to celebrate National Watermelon Day on Aug. 3 — you can make them in a flash without laboring over the stove for long, then you can escape to a cool spot and enjoy your creation in peace.
Our only piece of advice? Set aside a few wedges of watermelon to snack on later. Hey, sometimes simplest really is best.
Tuna, watermelon & avocado tartare
Put a playful spin on tuna tartare by layering it with creamy avocado and cubes of cool watermelon.
Chili-lime-salted watermelon
You’ll be surprised at how the flavor of watermelon pops when it’s sprinkled with lime zest, chili and salt.
Watermelon & chicken salad
What’s more refreshing on a hot day than a salad full of tangy chicken and crunchy lettuce? One with watermelon!
Watermelon, tomato, & jalapeño salad
As a salad or served as salsa, this blend of watermelon, tomatoes and jalapeño screams summer.
Watermelon & tomato panzanella
Add some sweetness to your panzanella with watermelon to balance the salty feta.
Watermelon margarita slush bucket
For parties and barbecues, this slushy pink bucket o’ margs is a hit (and easier than mixing individual drinks).
Watermelon & cucumber Mason jar salads
Perfect for picnics, these Mason jar salads are made with watermelon, cucumber and feta cheese.
Watermelon wedge salad
This summery take on the wedge salad, made with watermelon and Greek yogurt ranch, is a perfect BBQ side dish.
Watermelon pistachio pops
Coated in Greek yogurt and pistachios, frozen watermelon pops are a fun snack or warm-weather breakfast.
Watermelon mint granita
A bowl of watermelon mint granita is a refreshing end to any meal.
Watermelon gazpacho with spicy shrimp
Made in the blender, this cooling watermelon gazpacho is the perfect foil for spicy shrimp.
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