Watermelon is the quintessential summer fruit, known for its refreshing sweetness and high water content. It’s a versatile fruit that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of other foods and beverages to enhance its flavor and create delightful culinary experiences. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what goes well with watermelon, providing you with a range of pairing suggestions from savory snacks to sweet treats, and beverages to complete your summer spread.
What Goes Well with Watermelon?
What Savory Snacks Pair Well with Watermelon?
Watermelon’s natural sweetness makes it a perfect complement to a variety of savory snacks. The combination of sweet and savory can create a harmonious balance that delights the taste buds.
Classic Savory Snacks
Classic savory snacks provide a familiar and satisfying contrast to the sweetness of watermelon.
| Snack | Description | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Feta Cheese | Crumbled or cubed | Salty and creamy |
| Prosciutto | Thinly sliced Italian ham | Salty and rich |
| Cucumber | Freshly sliced | Crisp and refreshing |
| Avocado | Sliced or mashed | Creamy and mild |
| Olives | Pitted and sliced | Salty and tangy |
Gourmet Savory Snacks
For a more sophisticated touch, consider these gourmet savory snacks.
| Snack | Description | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Watermelon Gazpacho | Cold soup with watermelon and vegetables | Refreshing and savory |
| Watermelon Caprese Salad | Watermelon, mozzarella, and basil | Sweet and tangy |
| Watermelon Bruschetta | Watermelon, goat cheese, and mint on toast | Sweet and creamy |
| Watermelon and Shrimp | Grilled shrimp with watermelon salsa | Savory and juicy |
| Watermelon Ceviche | Watermelon with lime juice and seafood | Tangy and fresh |
What Sweet Treats Go Well with Watermelon?
Watermelon is already a sweet treat on its own, but it can be paired with other sweet foods to create an even more indulgent experience.
Classic Sweet Treats
Classic sweet treats enhance the natural sweetness of watermelon and provide a delightful contrast in texture.
| Treat | Description | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Mint | Fresh mint leaves | Refreshing and cool |
| Honey | Drizzled over watermelon | Sweet and sticky |
| Lime | Freshly squeezed juice | Tart and tangy |
| Yogurt | Plain or flavored | Creamy and tangy |
| Berries | Mixed fresh berries | Sweet and tart |
Gourmet Sweet Treats
For a more luxurious experience, try these gourmet sweet treats with your watermelon.
| Treat | Description | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Watermelon Sorbet | Smooth and icy sorbet | Refreshing and sweet |
| Watermelon Granita | Flavored ice with watermelon | Light and refreshing |
| Watermelon and Cream | Fresh watermelon with whipped cream | Creamy and sweet |
| Watermelon Parfait | Layers of watermelon, yogurt, and granola | Crunchy and creamy |
| Watermelon Tart | Pastry filled with watermelon and cream cheese | Sweet and tangy |
What Beverages Pair Well with Watermelon?
Beverages can enhance the flavor of watermelon and create a refreshing and enjoyable experience, especially on a hot summer day.
Alcoholic Beverages
Pairing watermelon with the right alcoholic beverage can elevate your summer gatherings.
| Beverage | Description | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Rosé Wine | Light pink wine with fruity notes | Light and fruity |
| Prosecco | Sparkling Italian wine | Bubbly and slightly sweet |
| Margarita | Tequila, lime juice, and watermelon | Tart and refreshing |
| Mojito | Rum, mint, and watermelon | Minty and refreshing |
| Sangria | Red or white wine with watermelon and citrus | Fruity and refreshing |
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Non-alcoholic beverages also provide excellent pairings for watermelon, making them perfect for all ages.
| Beverage | Description | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Lemonade | Classic lemonade with watermelon | Tart and sweet |
| Iced Tea | Black or green tea with watermelon | Light and refreshing |
| Smoothie | Blended watermelon with other fruits | Creamy and sweet |
| Sparkling Water | Carbonated water with a hint of watermelon | Bubbly and light |
| Coconut Water | Natural coconut water with watermelon | Hydrating and sweet |
What Dishes Complement Watermelon?
Watermelon can be incorporated into a variety of dishes, adding a refreshing twist to both savory and sweet meals.
Salads
Watermelon adds a juicy and refreshing element to salads, making them perfect for summer.
| Salad | Description | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Watermelon Feta Salad | Watermelon, feta cheese, and mint | Sweet and tangy |
| Watermelon Cucumber Salad | Watermelon, cucumber, and red onion | Crisp and refreshing |
| Watermelon Avocado Salad | Watermelon, avocado, and lime dressing | Creamy and tangy |
| Watermelon Spinach Salad | Watermelon, spinach, and balsamic dressing | Fresh and tangy |
| Watermelon and Quinoa Salad | Watermelon, quinoa, and herbs | Nutty and refreshing |
Main Dishes
Incorporating watermelon into main dishes can add a surprising and delightful twist.
| Dish | Description | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Grilled Chicken with Watermelon Salsa | Grilled chicken topped with watermelon salsa | Savory and juicy |
| Watermelon Pizza | Watermelon slices with toppings like feta and herbs | Sweet and savory |
| Watermelon and Shrimp Skewers | Grilled shrimp and watermelon on skewers | Savory and juicy |
| Watermelon Tacos | Tacos filled with watermelon and spicy fillings | Spicy and refreshing |
| Watermelon and Pork Kebabs | Grilled pork and watermelon kebabs | Savory and sweet |
How to Make the Best Watermelon Desserts?
Creating desserts with watermelon is easy and fun, and they are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Simple Watermelon Desserts
Simple desserts allow the natural flavor of watermelon to shine.
| Dessert | Description | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Watermelon Popsicles | Frozen watermelon on sticks | Refreshing and sweet |
| Watermelon Slush | Blended watermelon with ice | Icy and sweet |
| Watermelon Jello | Gelatin dessert made with watermelon juice | Jiggly and sweet |
| Watermelon Salad | Mixed fresh watermelon with other fruits | Fresh and sweet |
| Watermelon Skewers | Watermelon and other fruits on skewers | Juicy and sweet |
Gourmet Watermelon Desserts
For a more elaborate touch, try these gourmet watermelon desserts.
| Dessert | Description | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Watermelon Panna Cotta | Creamy Italian dessert with watermelon | Creamy and sweet |
| Watermelon Sorbet | Smooth and icy sorbet | Refreshing and sweet |
| Watermelon Cheesecake | Cheesecake with a watermelon topping | Creamy and tangy |
| Watermelon Parfait | Layers of watermelon, yogurt, and granola | Crunchy and creamy |
| Watermelon Tart | Pastry filled with watermelon and cream cheese | Sweet and tangy |
How to Choose the Perfect Watermelon?
Selecting the perfect watermelon can enhance your culinary creations and ensure a delightful experience.
Tips for Choosing Watermelon
Choosing the right watermelon is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture.
- Look for Uniform Shape: Choose a watermelon that is symmetrical and free from dents or irregularities.
- Check the Field Spot: Look for a creamy yellow spot where the watermelon rested on the ground. This indicates ripeness.
- Tap the Watermelon: Tap the watermelon with your knuckles. A ripe watermelon will produce a deep, hollow sound.
- Check the Skin: The skin should be dull, not shiny, and free from bruises or cuts.
- Lift the Watermelon: It should feel heavy for its size, indicating a high water content.
How to Store Watermelon
Proper storage ensures that your watermelon stays fresh and flavorful.
- Whole Watermelon: Store at room temperature for up to two weeks. Keep out of direct sunlight.
- Cut Watermelon: Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for 3-5 days.
- Freeze Watermelon: Cut into cubes and freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Transfer to a freezer bag once frozen. Use within six months.
Conclusion
Watermelon is a versatile and refreshing fruit that pairs well with a wide range of foods and beverages. From savory snacks and sweet treats to beverages and main dishes, there are countless ways to enjoy watermelon. By selecting the right accompaniments and following our tips, you can elevate your watermelon experience and create memorable summer moments. Whether you prefer classic pairings or gourmet touches, watermelon is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
FAQs
What are some classic savory snacks that go well with watermelon?
Classic savory snacks like feta cheese, prosciutto, cucumber, avocado, and olives complement the sweetness of watermelon and create a satisfying contrast in flavors.
What are some perfect sweet treats to pair with watermelon?
Sweet treats such as mint, honey, lime, yogurt, and berries enhance the natural sweetness of watermelon and provide a delightful contrast in texture.
What beverages pair well with watermelon?
Both alcoholic beverages like rosé wine, prosecco, margaritas, mojitos, and sangria, and non-alcoholic options like lemonade, iced tea, smoothies, sparkling water, and coconut water, complement the refreshing flavor of watermelon.
How can I incorporate watermelon into main dishes?
Watermelon can be incorporated into main dishes like grilled chicken with watermelon salsa, watermelon pizza, watermelon and shrimp skewers, watermelon tacos, and watermelon and pork kebabs, adding a refreshing twist.
What are some tips for choosing the perfect watermelon?
Choose a symmetrical watermelon with a creamy yellow field spot, a deep, hollow sound when tapped, dull skin free from bruises or cuts, and a heavy feel for its size. Store whole watermelons at room temperature and cut watermelon in the refrigerator or freezer for the best results.