Grilled Watermelon Steaks with Walnut Gremolata

This recipe is one for the books! Do not be intimidated by the name; it is a wonderful recipe that will fill that thrill to grill! The refreshing watermelon combined with the herbs and tanginess from walnut gremolata make a perfect pairing. For those of you who are not familiar with a gremolata, it is a mix of chopped parsley, garlic and grated lemon zest to make a dressing or garnish, to complement any meat, or in this case watermelon! Interestingly enough, gremolata has an Italian origin and is very commonly featured with parmesan cheese or pine nuts.

For this recipe, the addition of walnuts to the gremolata is great because they are packed full of important nutrients. You’ll find these nuts have omega-3 fatty acids for heart health, protein, and fiber. Two other important minerals found in this nut are phosphorus and magnesium, which aid the body’s essential processes. Additionally, watermelon is a great source of vitamin C, important for tissue maintenance. Beyond the beauty, flavor and health benefits of this recipe, it is also gluten-free. Add this recipe to your list! We are sure you will not be disappointed!

Grilled Watermelon Steaks with Walnut Gremolata

Ingredients:

1/2 small seedless watermelon

1/2 cup white balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon rosemary

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper, coarse ground

1/4 cup finely chopped toasted walnuts

1/4 cup finely chopped parsley

1 teaspoon grated lemon peel

Directions

1) Cut 4 (1-inch thick) half-moon slices of watermelon. Reserve any remaining watermelon for another use. Mix vinegar, oil, lemon juice, rosemary, salt and pepper in small bowl. Reserve 2 tablespoons for drizzling grilled watermelon. Place watermelon steaks in glass dish. Add remaining marinade. Refrigerate 20 minutes, turning watermelon halfway through marinating time.

2) Meanwhile, for the Walnut Gremolata, mix walnuts, parsley and lemon peel in small bowl. Set aside. Remove watermelon steaks from marinade. Reserve leftover marinade for brushing watermelon during grilling.

3) Grill watermelon steaks over high heat 2 to 4 minutes per side or until grill marks appear, brushing with leftover marinade.

4) To serve, cut watermelon steaks in half. Drizzle with reserved 2 tablespoons marinade. Sprinkle with Walnut Gremolata.

Recipe and Photo Credit: McCormick.com 

Recipe adapted from McCormick.com to match product offerings in our stores.