18 Refreshing Watermelon Recipes Perfect for Summer

Summer and watermelon are a match made in heaven—juicy, sweet, and oh-so-refreshing! Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, packing a picnic, or just craving a cool treat, these 18 watermelon recipes are here to beat the heat. From savory salads to frosty sips, we’ve got easy, vibrant dishes that’ll make your taste buds sing. Ready to dive in? Let’s get slicing!

Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint

This refreshing summer salad is a sweet-savory dream, with juicy watermelon, salty feta, and bright mint—perfect for backyard barbecues or lazy picnics.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1/4 tsp flaky sea salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, gently toss the watermelon and feta cheese.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss lightly to coat.
3. Fold in the mint just before serving to keep it vibrant.

The contrast of cool watermelon, creamy feta, and zesty lime makes every bite irresistible—plus, it comes together in just 5 minutes!

Tip: For extra crunch, add a handful of toasted pepitas or cucumbers.

Grilled Watermelon with Honey Lime Glaze

Sweet, smoky, and tangy—this unexpected twist on watermelon will be your new summer obsession.

Ingredients:

• 1 small seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch-thick wedges (rind removed)
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1/2 tsp lime zest
• 1/4 tsp flaky sea salt
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh mint (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high (about 400°F). Brush grates lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp lime juice, and 1/2 tsp lime zest.
3. Place watermelon wedges on the grill. Cook for 2 minutes per side, just until grill marks appear and edges soften slightly.
4. Transfer to a platter, drizzle with the honey-lime glaze, and sprinkle with 1/4 tsp flaky sea salt.
5. Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped mint and serve immediately.

The heat caramelizes the watermelon’s natural sugars, while the glaze adds a bright, sticky-sweet contrast—perfect for backyard BBQs or a fancy appetizer.

Tip: For extra depth, add a pinch of chili powder to the glaze!

Watermelon Gazpacho

This chilled summer soup is a sweet-and-savory twist on the classic, blending juicy watermelon with ripe tomatoes for a refreshing bite.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
• 2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 English cucumber, peeled and chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine watermelon, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, basil, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth, about 1–2 minutes.
2. Stir in minced jalapeño (if using) for a subtle kick. Taste and adjust salt or vinegar as needed.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight) to let flavors meld.
4. Serve cold, garnished with extra basil or a drizzle of olive oil.

The watermelon’s natural sweetness balances the tangy tomatoes and vinegar, making this gazpacho a vibrant, no-cook showstopper for hot days.

Tip: For a smoother texture, strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve before chilling.

Watermelon Sorbet

This refreshing watermelon sorbet is like summer in a bowl—naturally sweet, icy-cold, and ridiculously easy to whip up with just a handful of ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed (about 1 small watermelon)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a blender, puree the watermelon until completely smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove any pulp (you’ll get about 3 cups of juice).
2. Whisk in 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 2 tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the sugar dissolves.
3. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish or loaf pan and freeze for 1 hour. Stir with a fork to break up ice crystals, then return to the freezer. Repeat every 30 minutes for 3–4 hours, or until fluffy and firm.
4. For the best texture, let the sorbet sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping.

The vanilla adds a subtle warmth that makes this sorbet taste like a grown-up snow cone—perfect for backyard BBQs or a light dessert after a spicy meal.

Tip: For a boozy twist, add 1 tbsp of vodka before freezing—it keeps the sorbet extra scoopable!

Watermelon Cucumber Smoothie

This refreshing Watermelon Cucumber Smoothie is like a sip of summer—cool, hydrating, and just sweet enough to feel like a treat.

• 2 cups seedless watermelon, cubed and chilled
• 1/2 cup English cucumber, peeled and chopped
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 5-6 ice cubes
• Pinch of sea salt

1. Combine the watermelon, cucumber, Greek yogurt, honey, lime juice, and sea salt in a blender.
2. Blend on high for 30 seconds until completely smooth, scraping down the sides if needed.
3. Add the ice cubes and blend again for 10–15 seconds until frothy and slushy.
4. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.

The subtle tang from the yogurt and lime balances the watermelon’s sweetness, while the cucumber keeps it ultra-light—perfect for post-workout hydration or a poolside cooler.

Tip: For a dairy-free version, swap the yogurt with coconut water and a splash of coconut milk.

Watermelon Margarita

This refreshing twist on a classic margarita blends juicy watermelon with zesty lime for a sip that screams summer.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups fresh watermelon, cubed (about 1 small watermelon)
• 1/2 cup silver tequila
• 1/4 cup triple sec
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
• 2 tbsp agave syrup
• 1 cup ice, plus extra for serving
• Tajín or coarse salt, for rimming (optional)
• Lime wedges, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prep the glasses: Run a lime wedge around the rim of each glass, then dip in Tajín or salt. Fill with ice and set aside.
2. Blend the drink: In a blender, combine watermelon, tequila, triple sec, lime juice, agave syrup, and 1 cup ice. Blend until smooth, about 30 seconds.
3. Strain (optional): For a smoother texture, pour through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher, pressing gently on the pulp.
4. Serve: Divide the margarita between prepared glasses and garnish with lime wedges.

The natural sweetness of watermelon means you can skip the usual simple syrup—just a touch of agave balances the tart lime perfectly.

Tip: For a frozen version, freeze watermelon cubes overnight and omit the ice when blending.

Watermelon Popsicles

These juicy, no-fuss watermelon popsicles are like summer on a stick—naturally sweet, vibrantly pink, and perfect for beating the heat.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed (about 1 small watermelon)
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tbsp honey or agave syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
• Pinch of sea salt

Instructions:

1. Blend the watermelon, lime juice, honey (if using), and sea salt in a blender until completely smooth, about 30 seconds.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pourable pitcher to remove any pulp (skip if you prefer a rustic texture).
3. Divide the liquid evenly among 8 popsicle molds, leaving ¼ inch of space at the top for expansion. Insert sticks.
4. Freeze for at least 6 hours, or until fully solid. To unmold, briefly run warm water over the molds.

The tiny pinch of salt makes the watermelon flavor pop, while the lime adds a refreshing zing—no artificial colors or sugars needed!

Tip: For a fun twist, stir in 1 tbsp minced basil or mint before freezing for an herby kick.

Watermelon Salsa

Watermelon Salsa

This juicy, vibrant salsa is a sweet-and-spicy twist on the classic—perfect for scooping up with chips or topping grilled fish!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups finely diced seedless watermelon
• 1/2 cup diced English cucumber
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• 2 tbsp lime juice (about 1 lime)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp chili powder

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, gently toss the watermelon, cucumber, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
2. Drizzle with lime juice, then sprinkle with salt and chili powder. Fold gently to combine—don’t overmix or the watermelon will break down.
3. Let sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.

The crunch of cucumber and kick of jalapeño balance the watermelon’s natural sweetness, making this salsa irresistibly refreshing on a hot day.

Tip: For extra zing, add a pinch of Tajín seasoning just before serving!

Watermelon and Arugula Pizza

This unexpected summer pizza swaps dough for juicy watermelon slices, topped with peppery arugula and creamy feta for a refreshing bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 small seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch-thick rounds (about 4 rounds)
• 2 cups baby arugula
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
• 1/4 tsp flaky sea salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, torn

Instructions:

1. Pat the watermelon rounds dry with a paper towel to prevent sogginess. Arrange them on a serving platter.
2. In a bowl, toss the arugula with 2 tbsp of the olive oil and a pinch of the flaky sea salt until lightly coated.
3. Top each watermelon round evenly with the arugula mixture, followed by the crumbled feta cheese.
4. Drizzle the remaining 2 tbsp olive oil and the balsamic glaze over the pizzas. Sprinkle with the remaining flaky sea salt, black pepper, and torn mint leaves.
5. Serve immediately, holding the watermelon slices like handheld pizzas for a mess-free bite.

The contrast of cool watermelon, salty feta, and spicy arugula makes this no-cook dish a showstopper at picnics or pool parties.

Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or pepitas right before serving.

Watermelon Agua Fresca

This refreshing agua fresca is summer in a glass—sweet, hydrating, and ridiculously easy to whip up with just a handful of ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed (about 1 small watermelon)
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
• 1 tbsp honey or agave syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
• Pinch of salt
• Ice, for serving
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine watermelon, cold water, lime juice, honey (if using), and salt. Blend on high until completely smooth, about 30 seconds.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher, pressing with a spoon to extract all the liquid (discard any pulp).
3. Chill for at least 30 minutes or serve immediately over ice. Garnish with mint leaves if desired.

The secret here? That tiny pinch of salt—it makes the watermelon’s sweetness pop without being noticeable. Perfect for sipping on a hot afternoon or pairing with spicy tacos!

Tip: For a fizzy twist, top with club soda just before serving.

Watermelon and Halloumi Skewers

Sweet, salty, and irresistibly grill-kissed—these skewers are summer’s perfect bite, ready in just 15 minutes!

Ingredients

• 1 small seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 2 cups)
• 8 oz halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp lime zest
• 1/4 tsp flaky sea salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 8 (6-inch) wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
2. Thread watermelon and halloumi alternately onto skewers, leaving a tiny gap between pieces for even cooking.
3. Whisk together olive oil, honey, lime zest, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Brush half the mixture over the skewers.
4. Grill skewers for 2–3 minutes per side, just until halloumi develops golden grill marks and watermelon softens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and drizzle with remaining honey mixture. Serve immediately.

The magic here? Halloumi’s squeaky crispness against juicy watermelon—a texture party you’ll crave all season.

Tip: For extra zing, add a pinch of chili flakes to the honey glaze!

Watermelon Basil Lemonade

This refreshing sipper blends juicy watermelon, zesty lemon, and fragrant basil for a drink that screams summer in every sip.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed (about 1 small watermelon)
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, packed, plus extra for garnish
• 2 cups cold water
• Ice, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a blender, puree watermelon until completely smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher, pressing with a spoon to extract all the juice (you should get about 2 cups).
2. Add lemon juice, sugar, and basil leaves to the pitcher. Stir vigorously for 1 minute to dissolve the sugar and lightly bruise the basil.
3. Stir in cold water, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld (or up to 4 hours for stronger basil notes).
4. Serve over ice, garnishing each glass with a fresh basil leaf. For extra chill, freeze watermelon cubes to use as edible ice cubes!

The magic here? The basil isn’t just a garnish—it infuses the lemonade with a subtle herbal sweetness that plays perfectly against the tart citrus.

Tip: If your watermelon is ultra-sweet, reduce the sugar to 2 tbsp and taste before adding more.

Watermelon and Tomato Caprese

This vibrant twist on a classic Caprese swaps juicy watermelon for mozzarella, making it a refreshing summer showstopper that’s as pretty as it is tasty.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
• 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, gently toss watermelon and cherry tomatoes with 2 tbsp olive oil until lightly coated.
2. Arrange the mixture on a serving platter, scattering basil leaves evenly over the top.
3. Drizzle with 1 tbsp balsamic glaze, then sprinkle with 1/2 tsp sea salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
4. Serve immediately, or chill for up to 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

The sweetness of the watermelon balances the tangy tomatoes and balsamic, while the basil adds a fragrant punch—perfect for patio dining or potlucks.

Tip: For extra flair, use a mix of heirloom cherry tomatoes in different colors!

Watermelon Ice Cubes for Drinks

These refreshing watermelon ice cubes are a game-changer for summer cocktails, mocktails, or even plain sparkling water—bursting with sweet, fruity flavor as they melt!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed (about 1/2 small watermelon)
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tbsp honey or agave syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)

Instructions:

1. Blend the watermelon and lime juice in a blender until completely smooth, about 30 seconds. For a sweeter version, add the honey or agave and blend again.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large measuring cup or bowl to remove any pulp (skip if you prefer texture).
3. Pour the liquid into ice cube trays, filling each compartment about 3/4 full to allow for expansion. Freeze for at least 4 hours or until solid.

The beauty of these cubes? They won’t water down your drinks—just infuse them with bright, summery flavor as they slowly melt.

Tip: For a fun twist, add a small mint leaf or a thin lime slice to each cube before freezing!

Watermelon and Avocado Salad

This juicy, creamy salad is summer on a plate—sweet watermelon meets buttery avocado in a refreshing bite you’ll crave all season.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed (1-inch pieces)
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, torn
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt
• 1/4 tsp cracked black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, gently toss watermelon, avocados, red onion, and mint leaves.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice, then sprinkle with flaky sea salt and cracked black pepper. Fold lightly to combine—avocado should stay chunky.
3. Serve immediately, or chill for up to 15 minutes to let flavors meld (avocado will soften if stored longer).

The contrast of crisp watermelon against velvety avocado makes every forkful exciting, while the mint and lime keep it bright. Tip: For extra crunch, add 1/4 cup toasted pepitas right before serving.

Watermelon and Coconut Chia Pudding

This refreshing Watermelon and Coconut Chia Pudding is like summer in a bowl—light, creamy, and packed with juicy sweetness.

• 1 1/2 cups diced seedless watermelon
• 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Toasted coconut flakes, for garnish (optional)

1. In a blender, puree the watermelon until completely smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing with a spoon to extract about 3/4 cup juice (discard pulp).
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined. Stir in the watermelon juice.
3. Divide the mixture among 4 small jars or glasses. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until thickened.
4. Top with toasted coconut flakes just before serving.

The magic here? The watermelon juice keeps the pudding ultra-light, while the coconut milk adds a luscious creaminess—no dairy needed!

Tip: For a fun twist, layer the pudding with extra diced watermelon for a parfait effect.

Watermelon and Ginger Cooler

This refreshing sipper blends juicy watermelon with zippy ginger for a drink that’s as vibrant as it is hydrating—perfect for backyard hangs or post-workout recovery.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed (about 1 small watermelon)
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, peeled and finely grated
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
• 1 tbsp honey (or agave for vegan)
• 1 cup cold sparkling water
• Ice cubes, for serving
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine watermelon, 1 tbsp grated ginger, 2 tbsp lime juice, and 1 tbsp honey. Blend until completely smooth, about 30 seconds.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher, pressing with a spoon to extract all the liquid (discard pulp).
3. Stir in 1 cup sparkling water. Taste and adjust sweetness or tang with a touch more honey or lime if needed.
4. Fill glasses with ice, pour the cooler over, and garnish with mint if using.

The ginger’s subtle heat plays off the watermelon’s sweetness, while the fizz makes it feel extra celebratory—no fancy tools required!

Tip: For a boozy twist, add a splash of vodka or white rum before serving.

Watermelon and Ricotta Toast

This sweet-savory toast is summer on a plate—juicy watermelon meets creamy ricotta for a refreshing bite that’s ready in minutes.

Ingredients:

• 4 slices crusty sourdough bread, toasted
• 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
• 1 cup diced seedless watermelon (½-inch cubes)
• 2 tbsp honey
• ¼ tsp flaky sea salt
• 10 fresh mint leaves, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

Instructions:

1. Toast the sourdough bread until golden and crisp.
2. Spread ¼ cup ricotta evenly onto each toast.
3. Top each with ¼ cup diced watermelon, then drizzle with ½ tbsp honey per slice.
4. Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt (about 1/16 tsp per toast) and a few mint leaves over each.
5. Finish with a light drizzle of olive oil (about ¾ tsp per toast).

The contrast of cool melon, rich ricotta, and crunchy toast makes this a standout—perfect for lazy brunches or a snack that feels fancy without the fuss.

Tip: For extra texture, sprinkle toasted pistachios over the top before serving.

Conclusion

With these 18 refreshing watermelon recipes, summer just got a whole lot sweeter! From hydrating drinks to vibrant salads, there’s something for every occasion. We’d love to hear which one’s your favorite—drop a comment below and don’t forget to share the love on Pinterest. Happy cooking (and eating)!