Sweet & Savory Watermelon Inspirations

It used to be that watermelon was only served in slices as a refreshing summer treat.  Today there are many new trendy ways to dish up an old favorite!

My first venture to try a unique watermelon salad was a recipe from Paula Dean.  Her salad included feta, fresh mint, sweet Vidalia onions and olive oil.  I served it at my Supper Club Barbecue .  The sweet melon with the crunchy onion, fresh mint and salty feta was so refreshing.  It was a huge hit and everyone had seconds!

via Eat and Be Merry Blog

Watermelon Starters

Fast forward to another dinner party where I decided to adapt Paula Dean’s salad into a summer appetizer.

I cut the melon into two-inch square cubes.  With a melon baller, I scooped out a portion of each square.  I filled the indentation with the same ingredients from the salad above and garnished with fresh mint.  I served them in individual appetizer dishes with cocktail forks as shown below.

via Tabletop Trends

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Sweet & Spicy

These watermelon squares can be filled with feta or goat cheese and topped with a jalapeno slice.  So simple and pretty. Don’t forget to wear gloves while handling the fresh jalapeno.

via From Away

Grilled Watermelon Salad

This year’s trend is grilling watermelon.  As seen in In Style Magazine, this stacked salad is simple to make and impressive to serve.

Following are two other versions of the stacked salad.   These are also easy to make and the presentation makes you feel like you are in a gourmet restaurant!

via Cooking for Keeps 

via BS in the Kitchen

It’s All in the Presentation

The red and white striped effect of the round melon and goat cheese is striking against the white platter.  They look so refreshing.

via As a Verb

Trendy Watermelon Desserts

If you still prefer to serve your watermelon for dessert, why not elevate it to a new level by serving it on a cake stand?  This is a pretty presentation for a summer bridal shower buffet.

via Shop at Home

Continuing with the dessert theme, get creative and design a watermelon cake.  Garnish the melon with fruit in different shapes and sizes.  It’s healthy, colorful and fun!

via Apron Strings Blog

So what do you prefer, sweet or savory?  Do you have a unique way to serve watermelon?  Please leave a comment and share your inspirations.