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Fresh Grilled Watermelon Steaks Recipe with Crispy Halloumi and Lime Tahini Dressing

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A refreshing and surprising summer recipe featuring grilled watermelon steaks paired with crispy halloumi cheese and a tangy lime tahini dressing. Perfect for quick, flavorful meals or backyard gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch thick steaks (about 8–10 slices)
  • 8 ounces halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, for brushing
  • Lime Tahini Dressing:
  • 3 tablespoons tahini
  • Juice of 1 large lime (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh herbs (mint or cilantro), chopped, for garnish (optional)
  • Pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cut the watermelon into 1-inch thick steaks, about 8-10 pieces. Trim off the rind carefully, leaving just the pink flesh and a thin green edge for handling. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. Slice the halloumi into 1/2-inch thick pieces and set aside.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lime juice, minced garlic, honey (if using), and water. Adjust water to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Brush the grill grates or grill pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  5. Brush both sides of the watermelon steaks and halloumi slices lightly with olive oil.
  6. Place the watermelon steaks on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until grill marks appear and the flesh is slightly caramelized. Avoid flipping too early to prevent breaking.
  7. Grill the halloumi slices for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy with a squeaky texture.
  8. Arrange the grilled watermelon steaks on a serving platter. Top each with one or two slices of crispy halloumi.
  9. Drizzle generously with the lime tahini dressing.
  10. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs and a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Pat watermelon dry before grilling to reduce slipping and sticking. Use a fish spatula for gentle flipping. The lime tahini dressing thickens if refrigerated; whisk before serving. For nut-free dressing, substitute tahini with sunflower seed butter. For dairy-free, replace halloumi with firm tofu marinated in lemon and garlic.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled watermelon, halloumi, lime tahini dressing, summer recipe, vegetarian, gluten-free, quick meal, backyard barbecue

Find it online: https://perkypan.com/fresh-grilled-watermelon-steaks-recipe-with-crispy-halloumi-and-lime-tahini-dressing/