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Fresh Grilled Watermelon Feta Skewers with Basil Balsamic Drizzle

grilled watermelon feta skewers - featured image

A colorful, refreshing appetizer featuring smoky grilled watermelon cubes, creamy feta, fresh basil, and a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze. Perfect for summer cookouts and easy entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes (seedless, ripe)
  • 8 ounces feta cheese, firm block style, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, whole
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • About 12 wooden or metal skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

Instructions

  1. Prep the balsamic glaze: In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce by half until syrupy (8-10 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Cut watermelon into 1-inch cubes, removing any seeds. Cut feta into similar-sized cubes. Keep both chilled until ready to assemble.
  3. Wash and pat dry fresh basil leaves. Tear large leaves into bite-sized pieces if needed.
  4. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Toss watermelon cubes with 2 tablespoons olive oil and a pinch of salt. Thread 3-4 watermelon cubes per skewer. Grill skewers 2-3 minutes per side until grill marks appear and watermelon softens slightly but remains firm.
  5. Remove grilled watermelon from skewers. Alternate threading watermelon, feta, and basil leaves onto skewers, starting with watermelon and finishing with a basil leaf.
  6. Lightly sprinkle assembled skewers with freshly ground black pepper. Arrange on serving platter and drizzle generously with balsamic glaze.
  7. Optional: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt or crushed red pepper flakes for extra flavor. Serve immediately.

Notes

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Use firm block feta to avoid crumbling. Watch watermelon closely on grill to avoid mushiness. Balsamic glaze can be made ahead and stored in fridge for up to a week. For dairy-free option, substitute feta with marinated firm tofu.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled watermelon, feta skewers, balsamic glaze, summer appetizer, easy recipe, basil, smoky watermelon, party food