7 Watermelon Salads to Serve with BBQ Meals

Watermelon salad is fantastic alongside various BBQ dishes. I suggest grilled chicken, fish tacos, or a light pasta salad.

For a refreshing twist, try pairing it with cucumber gazpacho or a citrusy quinoa salad. Grilled veggies or corn on the cob are also delicious options to serve alongside.

Here are 7 different watermelon salad recipes to try with your BBQ meals this summer.

1. Classic Watermelon Feta Salad

Why it's a BBQ Side Dish Hit: The Classic Watermelon Feta Salad is a BBQ favorite because its sweet and savory blend perfectly complements the smoky flavors of grilled meats.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed watermelon
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cubed watermelon and crumbled feta cheese.
2. Gently toss the ingredients together until evenly distributed.
3. Sprinkle chopped mint leaves over the salad and toss again.
4. Serve chilled and enjoy the delightful combination of sweet watermelon, salty feta, and refreshing mint.

2. Spicy Watermelon and Cucumber Salad

Why it's a BBQ Side Dish Hit: The Spicy Watermelon and Cucumber Salad add a zing to your BBQ spread, offering a cooling contrast to the heat of grilled dishes.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups diced watermelon
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 2 jalapeños, seeds removed and sliced
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1 teaspoon chili powder

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon, sliced cucumber, and jalapeños.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and chili powder.
3. Drizzle the lime-chili mixture over the salad and toss gently.
4. Chill before serving for a spicy and refreshing kick.

3. Minty Watermelon and Arugula Salad

Why it's a BBQ Side Dish Hit: The Minty Watermelon and Arugula Salad bring a touch of elegance to your BBQ table, making it a refreshing and visually appealing side.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed watermelon
• 2 cups fresh arugula
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, torn

Instructions:

1. Place watermelon cubes and arugula in a large bowl.
2. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad and toss gently.
3. Sprinkle torn mint leaves on top.
4. Serve immediately for a sophisticated blend of sweet and peppery flavors.

4. Tropical Watermelon Pineapple Salad

Why it's a BBQ Side Dish Hit: The Tropical Watermelon Pineapple Salad transports your taste buds to a beach paradise, making it a must-have BBQ side for a tropical twist.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed watermelon
• 2 cups diced fresh pineapple
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut

Instructions:

1. Combine watermelon and pineapple in a large bowl.
2. Sprinkle shredded coconut over the fruit and gently toss.
3. Refrigerate before serving to enhance the tropical flavors.

5. Mozzarella and Tomato Watermelon Skewers

Why it's a BBQ Side Dish Hit: Mozzarella and Tomato Watermelon Skewers offer a delightful and easy-to-share option, making them perfect for BBQ gatherings.

Ingredients:

• Mozzarella balls
• Cherry tomatoes
• Watermelon cubes
• Balsamic reduction (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Thread mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and watermelon cubes onto skewers.
2. Arrange the skewers on a serving platter.
3. Drizzle with balsamic reduction just before serving.

6. Berry Watermelon Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing

Why it's a BBQ Side Dish Hit: The Berry Watermelon Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing adds a burst of sweetness to balance the savory notes of BBQ dishes.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups sliced strawberries
• 1 cup blueberries
• 4 cups cubed watermelon
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine strawberries, blueberries, and watermelon.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and lime juice to create the dressing.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.

7. Healthy Greek Watermelon Salad

Why it's a BBQ Side Dish Hit: The Greek Watermelon Salad offers a Mediterranean flair, bringing a unique and savory element to your BBQ feast.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed watermelon
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1/2 cup kalamata olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions:

1. Toss together watermelon, cucumber, olives, and feta cheese in a large bowl.
2. Sprinkle oregano over the salad and toss gently.
3. Serve for a taste of the Mediterranean.

Watermelon Salad Alternatives

Need more side dish ideas? We recommend trying a yummy macaroni and cheese or tasty garlic bread side with your next BBQ grilling feast.