Why You Should Be Marinating Watermelon

Marinating isn’t just for meat. It’s a technique that can benefit a variety of foods. When your watermelon is lackluster, all it takes are a few simple ingredients to boost the fruit’s natural flavor.

Start by cutting the watermelon and choosing a vessel for marinating; cubed pieces work well in large mixing bowls, while triangle slices are great on rimmed sheet pans. Then, simply whisk your marinade together, pour it over the watermelon, and gently toss until coated. Allow the watermelon to sit for at least 30 minutes (preferably in the fridge) to absorb the flavors before serving.

How To Make a Marinade for Watermelon
To build a quick marinade, consider the following ingredients—but be sure to choose those that complement the meal you’re serving and consider your personal preferences.

Salt: Some under-ripe watermelons may be slightly tart or not have much of a taste at all. And, we know that salt balances sweetness. Adding salt can mute any bitter notes and allow the sweet flavors to become more pronounced. A pinch of flaky sea salt or finely ground sea salt works best.I

Sugar: Sprinkling your watermelon with sugar will give it a sweeter taste, but that’s not all sugar can do. Like salting a cucumber, adding sugar draws excess water out of the fruit, concentrating its flavor. Besides granulated sugar, you can use honey or agave syrup in your marinade. Adjust the sweetness to your liking, but generally, 1 to 2 tablespoons should be sufficient for a medium-sized watermelon.

Acid: Acidic ingredients work magic in recipes. They tenderize meat, make pie crust extra flaky, and give cake a tender crumb. Lemon juice, lime juice, balsamic vinegar, and orange juice all add an acidic element to your marinade that quickly punches up the flavor. About 1/4 cup will be enough to marinate a medium-sized watermelon.

Fresh herbs and spices: Herbs like mint, basil, and rosemary add freshness that complements and enhances the watermelon's natural sweetness. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of chopped herbs to your marinade, or sprinkle them on top before serving.

If you like spicy watermelon, adding a pinch of cayenne or chili powder adds a smoky quality that, when paired with granulated sugar, makes for a delicious and unique-tasting treat.

Try a citrusy marinade with fresh lime juice, honey, and a pinch of salt.

For a richer and more complex option, try balsamic vinegar with a generous sprinkle of sugar or drizzle of honey.

The options are endless. Once you start marinating watermelon, your only regret will be not trying it sooner.