Sweet, juicy, and deeply refreshing, watermelon brings more than just summer vibes to the table. From icy slushies and chilled soups to bold salads and drinks, this list highlights the many ways to serve watermelon beyond a simple slice. Paired with tangy cheeses, blended into frosty desserts, or stirred into drinks, each recipe offers a different take on this fruit’s bright flavor and versatility. These dishes work well for warm weather and casual entertaining alike.

Watermelon Salad

A plate of salad with watermelon, cucumber, blueberries, feta cheese, and mint leaves offers a refreshing twist on creative recipes, set beside a small bowl of blueberries and utensils with floral handles—a feast for food and drink lovers.
Watermelon Salad. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Chunks of watermelon are tossed with mint, lime, and a sprinkle of salt. It’s a clean, simple mix that focuses on fresh flavor. Serve it cold for a quick side dish. Add cucumber or feta for extra contrast.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon Salad

Watermelon Gazpacho

Watermelon Gazpacho. Photo credit: My Pure Plants.

This chilled soup blends watermelon with tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers. It’s savory with a sweet twist, ideal on hot days. Serve in small bowls or glasses as an appetizer. Garnish with herbs or a drizzle of oil.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon Gazpacho

Fresh Watermelon Boba Drink Recipe: Quick And Easy

Two tall glasses of iced watermelon drinks with clear straws. One garnished with a watermelon slice and the other with a basil leaf.
Fresh Watermelon Boba Drink Recipe: Quick And Easy. Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Blended watermelon serves as the base for this bright and fruity bubble tea. Tapioca pearls add chew and fun texture. It’s a refreshing alternative to milk-based versions. Serve with a wide straw and lots of ice.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Watermelon Boba Drink Recipe: Quick And Easy

Colombian fruit salad

Colombian fruit salad in pineapple.
Colombian fruit salad. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

This tropical fruit mix often includes watermelon, papaya, banana, and pineapple. Sweetened condensed milk and shredded cheese are sometimes added for richness. It’s served cold and layered with flavor. A popular street snack that’s easy to recreate.
Get the Recipe: Colombian fruit salad

Vodka Watermelon Punch

Two glasses of watermelon juice garnished with lime slices are on a wooden surface with a red napkin in the background.
Vodka Watermelon Punch. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Fresh watermelon juice is combined with vodka and citrus for a simple cocktail. It’s served cold over ice, often in a hollowed-out watermelon. Great for parties or outdoor events. Garnish with lime or mint for color.
Get the Recipe: Vodka Watermelon Punch

Watermelon Frozen Yogurt

Watermelon Frozen Yogurt. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Watermelon puree is mixed with yogurt and frozen into a creamy dessert. It’s tangy, sweet, and light. You can make it with or without an ice cream maker. Serve in bowls or cones for a cooling treat.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon Frozen Yogurt

Watermelon Feta Salad

Watermelon Feta Salad. Photo credit: Nutritious Deliciousness.

Cubes of watermelon and feta cheese make a bold pairing. Mint and lime bring it all together. The combination is sweet, salty, and refreshing. A simple dish that works as a starter or side.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon Feta Salad

Watermelon Slushies

Watermelon Slushies. Photo credit: Maria’s Mixing Bowl.

Blended watermelon and ice create this frosty drink. Add lime juice or berries for extra flavor. It’s quick to make and loved by all ages. Serve immediately to keep it icy.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon Slushies

Fruit Charcuterie Board (with Honey Glazed Fruit Salad)

Fruit Charcuterie Board (with Honey Glazed Fruit Salad). Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Watermelon is sliced and paired with other fruits like berries, citrus, and grapes. A honey glaze adds shine and sweetness. It’s a show-stopping platter for brunches or events. Add dips or cheeses to round it out.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Charcuterie Board (with Honey Glazed Fruit Salad)

Watermelon and Feta Salad

Low angle shot of a bowl of watermelon salad with kalamata olives and feta cheese.
Watermelon and Feta Salad. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Similar to the classic, this version may include olives, cucumber, or arugula. The feta brings salty creaminess, and the watermelon stays juicy and bright. Dress lightly with olive oil and citrus. It’s best served well chilled.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon and Feta Salad

Watermelon Blue Cheese Salad

Watermelon Blue Cheese Salad. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Watermelon is paired with bold blue cheese for a rich contrast. Add greens like arugula or spinach to soften the intensity. A light vinaigrette ties the dish together. It’s an unexpected combination that works well.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon Blue Cheese Salad

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, I’m Lucy! I’m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. I’ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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