Grilled Watermelon Tower with Whipped Ricotta & Pickled Onion Vinaigrette
As the days get longer and the temperatures rise, there’s nothing quite like the vibrant flavors of summer. This Grilled Watermelon Tower with Whipped Ricotta and Pickled Onion Vinaigrette is the perfect dish to impress your guests or enjoy a special treat on a warm evening. With its smoky and sweet flavors, this dish elevates the humble watermelon into an elegant salad that looks as good as it tastes. Each layer of grilled watermelon is paired with a light and airy whipped ricotta, drizzled with a tangy pickled onion vinaigrette, creating a perfect balance that’s refreshing and satisfying.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Grilled Watermelon Tower is more than just a salad; it’s a feast for the eyes and the palate. The combination of sweet, smoky grilled watermelon, creamy ricotta, and the zesty pickled onion vinaigrette creates a medley of flavors that will excite your taste buds. Not only will this dish steal the show at your next summer gathering, but it’s also a quick and easy recipe that requires minimal cooking skills, making it perfect for both novice and experienced chefs. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, appealing to a wide range of dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Gathering fresh, quality ingredients is crucial for this dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Watermelon & Cheese
- 1 small seedless watermelon
- 200 g ricotta cheese
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 tbsp honey
- Pinch of salt
- Pickled Onion Vinaigrette
- ½ cup pickled red onion, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp pickling liquid from the onions
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt & pepper to taste
- For Grilling
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
Step 1: Begin by slicing the watermelon. Cut the watermelon into thick, even rounds, aiming for about 1-inch thickness. For uniform discs, use a ring cutter if available, as it helps create perfectly shaped rounds for stacking.
Step 2: Preheat your grill pan over high heat. Lightly oil the pan to prevent sticking. Once hot, grill the watermelon slices for about 12 minutes per side. You’re looking for beautiful grill marks and a bit of char while ensuring the watermelon retains its juicy texture – you don’t want it to become mushy.
Step 3: While the watermelon is grilling, prepare the whipped ricotta. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, heavy cream, honey, and a pinch of salt. Use a hand mixer or fork to blend until the mixture is light, fluffy, and smooth. Chill the whipped ricotta in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the dish.
Step 4: To create the pickled onion vinaigrette, whisk together the pickling liquid, olive oil, honey, chopped pickled onions, and season with salt and pepper to taste. This vinaigrette will add a tangy bite that balances the sweetness of the watermelon beautifully.
Step 5: Now it’s time to assemble your watermelon tower. Start with a slice of grilled watermelon at the base, then add a generous layer of whipped ricotta on top. Repeat this layering process with the remaining slices, finishing with a slice of watermelon on top.
Step 6: To serve, drizzle the pickled onion vinaigrette over the top of the watermelon tower, allowing it to cascade down the sides. This will enhance the visual appeal of your dish. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful medley of flavors.
Pro Tips for Making the Grilled Watermelon Tower
1. **Pick the Right Watermelon**: Look for a small seedless watermelon that feels heavy for its size. This indicates a juicy and delicious fruit.
2. **Chill the Ricotta**: If you have time, chill the whipped ricotta in the freezer for about 30 minutes to enhance its texture before layering.
3. **Experiment with Fruits**: While watermelon is the star here, feel free to experiment with other fruits like peaches or pineapples if you’re looking for a twist.
4. **Use a Good Quality Olive Oil**: The vinaigrette relies heavily on the quality of the olive oil, so choose one that has great flavor.
5. **Presentation is Key**: For a restaurant-style presentation, stack the towers carefully and drizzle the vinaigrette artistically around the plate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can grill the watermelon and prepare the whipped ricotta a few hours before serving. Just keep them refrigerated until assembly.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If ricotta isn’t available, consider using goat cheese or mascarpone for a different flavor profile.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The watermelon will keep well for a day, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Could I make a larger batch for a party?
Absolutely! Just scale up the ingredients proportionally, and consider making individual towers for easier serving.
Can I make the pickled onions at home?
Yes, homemade pickled onions are simple to make! Thinly slice red onions, submerge them in equal parts vinegar and water, add sugar and salt, and let them sit for a couple of hours.
Conclusion
The Grilled Watermelon Tower with Whipped Ricotta and Pickled Onion Vinaigrette not only highlights the best of summer produce but also turns a simple ingredient into a sophisticated dish. With its unique flavor combinations and appealing presentation, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. So fire up your grill and enjoy a delightful twist on a summer classic! This dish will leave you and your guests savoring every last bite.
