Description
Indulge in a unique and flavorful dish with this Grilled Watermelon Steak topped with Warm Ricotta and Balsamic Pearls. The combination of sweet watermelon, creamy ricotta, and tangy balsamic pearls creates a delightful symphony of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the watermelon steak:
- 1 large seedless watermelon (cut into 2–3 thick “steaks”)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the warm ricotta:
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp honey
- Pinch of salt
- Zest of 1 lemon
For the balsamic pearls:
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp agar agar powder (or use store-bought balsamic pearls if available)
For garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Crushed pistachios (optional)
- Extra drizzle of honey
Instructions
- Prepare the balsamic pearls: In a small saucepan, heat balsamic vinegar until warm but not boiling. Whisk in agar agar and simmer for 2–3 minutes until fully dissolved. Drop tiny droplets into cold oil (kept in a cup in the freezer) to form pearls. Strain and set aside.
- Prepare the watermelon: Cut watermelon into thick steak-like slabs (about 1.5–2 inches thick). Pat dry to remove excess moisture.
- Marinate: Mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush generously over watermelon steaks. Let sit for 10–15 minutes.
- Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill watermelon steaks for 3–4 minutes per side until char marks form and edges slightly caramelize.
- Prepare warm ricotta: In a small pan over low heat, warm ricotta with olive oil, honey, salt, and lemon zest. Stir gently until creamy and slightly loosened (do not overheat).
- Assemble: Spread warm ricotta on a plate, place grilled watermelon steak on top, and scatter balsamic pearls over it.
- Garnish: Add fresh basil, crushed pistachios, and a light drizzle of honey.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Contemporary
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
