There’s no summer fruit quite like the watermelon. It’s crisp, it’s refreshing, it’s super hydrating, and it doesn’t hurt that it tastes pretty darn good, too.
But eating watermelon cubes is so summer 2015, which is why we decided to help you up your watermelon game with these awesome twists. Don’t blame us if you end up making these new creations every week this summer. Get the goods after the jump.
1. Watermelon Ice
It’s the easiest way to cool your water and add a hint of sweetness without adding extra sugar.
What You’ll Need:
— Watermelon
— Sparkling water
— Mint
— Wax or parchment paper
— Pan, plate, or any flat surface to hold the watermelon
What To Do:
Cover your flat surface wax or parchment paper.
Cut your watermelon into cubes (or buy them pre-cut) and place them on top of the wax paper.
Freeze the cubes for a few hours—it doesn’t take long for them to become ice-hard. Place them in a pitcher of sparkling water, garnish with mint, and serve.
2. Watermelon Pizza
This dish combines the best of both worlds: salty and sweet. Serve it as an appetizer to wow your crowd or even as a colorful lunch substitute.
What You’ll Need:
— Watermelon slices
— Kalamata olives
— Red onion
— Feta cheese
— Avocado
What To Do:
Cut watermelon into slices and then cut slices into triangles.
Slice your avocado and red onion into small pieces.
Place your ingredients on top of your watermelon slices and enjoy.
3. Watermelon on a Stick
Hey, eating straight watermelon is a classic for a reason, and who doesn’t love eating foods on a stick? We sure do. Plus, it makes it super easy to carry around that backyard barbecue—say goodbye to sticky fingers forever.
What You’ll Need:
— Watermelon
— Wooden skewers or sticks
What To Do:
Simply cut watermelon into triangles and put them on a stick. And if you’re feeling adventurous, soak your watermelon slices in your favorite spirit (we like vodka best) for an adult snack. Another idea? Dip slices in salt or chili flakes for a salty, spicy, and sweet treat. Watermelon FTW!
4. Watermelon Jenga Salad
This classic board game gets an upgrade with feta cheese and fresh mint. No games here!
What You’ll Need:
— Watermelon
— Feta cheese
— Fresh mint
— Lemon juice
What to Do:
Cut watermelon into thick rectangles and stack them like a Jenga board. Top with feta cheese, fresh mint, and a drizzle of lemon juice.
5. Watermelon, Cucumber, and Feta Cheese Salad
Sweet watermelon tastes delicious with crunchy cucumber, creamy feta, and fresh mint.
What You’ll Need:
— 1 large seedless cucumber
— 2 cups cubed watermelon, 1/2-inch pieces
— 1 cup Sunny Gold Baby melon
— 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
— 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, thinly sliced
— Juice of 1 lime
What to Do:
Use a spiralizer to create cucumber noodles. Chop your gold and red watermelon into 1/2-inch pieces. In a bowl, combine cucumber noodles, watermelon cubes, feta cheese, and mint. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the salad.
6. Watermelon Jalapeño Margarita
It’s sweet and spicy.
What You’ll Need:
— 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
— 3/4 cup white tequila
— 8-10 cups watermelon chunks
— 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
— 1/3 cup Triple Sec
— 1/4 cup simple syrup
— Salt, chili powder, and lime juice for salting rims of glasses
What to Do:
This one’s a little more complicated, so get the recipe here.