Air Fryer Watermelon: Hot Or Not?

Watermelon is a refreshing fruit that is typically served fresh and cool. However, have you ever wondered what happens when you put watermelon in an air fryer? It turns out that air-fried watermelon is a thing! You can air-fry watermelon slices, bites, or even the rind. The result is a unique delicacy with a grilled, smoky flavor that is sweet and savory. Air-frying watermelon is a simple and healthy way to enjoy this fruit, and it can be served as a side dish, appetizer, or dessert. So, if you're looking for a new way to enjoy watermelon, why not give air-frying a try?

Air fryer watermelon slices

Air-frying watermelon slices is a great way to enjoy this fruit with a grilled, smoky flavour. It is an easy recipe that can be served as a warm appetiser or side dish. Here is a guide on how to make air fryer watermelon slices:

Ingredients

• Watermelon (ripe and tasty)
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice (or lime juice)
• Cinnamon
• Feta cheese
• Fresh mint
• Balsamic vinegar or teriyaki sauce

Method

• Prepare the watermelon slices by brushing each slice with olive oil on both sides. Then, drizzle both sides with lemon or lime juice.
• Line the bottom of the air fryer basket with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the watermelon slices in the basket in a single layer.
• Air fry the watermelon at 400°F/200°C for 5 minutes. Then, flip the slices over and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, or until the melon is heated through and slightly browned on the edges.
• Transfer the watermelon slices to plates. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese, fresh mint, and cinnamon. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and serve warm.

Tips:

• Seedless watermelon works best, but you can also use watermelon with seeds and remove them before cooking.
• You can choose to remove the watermelon rind for a "watermelon steak" look and feel.
• For the best flavour and texture, use a whole piece of feta cheese instead of pre-crumbled cheese.
• This dish is perfect for summer and can be served as a vegetarian meal or alongside grilled meat.
• Get creative with toppings! Fresh cilantro or parsley are great alternatives to mint.

Air fryer watermelon rind fries

Ingredients:

• Watermelon
• Flour
• Cornmeal
• Salt
• Pepper
• Cooking spray
• Butter (melted)
• Cinnamon
• Sugar

Method:

• Cut up your watermelon, wash the rinds and cut into fries.
• Roll the rind fries in a flour/cornmeal mixture (equal amounts of each).
• Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
• Place in the air fryer and coat each side with cooking spray.
• Cook in the air fryer at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes, flipping over every 5 minutes, until brown.
• Allow to cool for a few minutes.
• Melt some butter in one bowl and have a cinnamon-sugar mix in another.
• Roll the rind fries in butter and then the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
• Place them on a sheet of parchment paper.

Tips:

• You can leave the skin on the watermelon or remove it before cutting into fries.
• You can serve these rind fries with your favourite dip or dressing, such as ranch or chocolate sauce.

Air fryer watermelon bites

Air-fried Watermelon Bites

Ingredients:

• 5-7 watermelon cubes
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 egg
• Flour
• Cream cheese fruit dip (optional)

Method:

• In a small bowl, beat the egg. In a second small bowl, add flour. In a third small bowl, add the breadcrumbs.
• Dunk each watermelon cube into the egg, then the flour, and then the breadcrumbs.
• Place the cubes in an air-fryer basket and cook at 400 degrees for 13-15 minutes, until golden brown.
• Sprinkle watermelon cubes with powdered sugar and serve with cream cheese fruit dip (optional).

Tips:

• Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 13 minutes. Total time: 23 minutes.
• Watermelon is loaded with Vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system.
• For extra flavour, try marinating the watermelon in a zesty sauce before frying.
• For a vegetarian option, top the watermelon bites with feta, mint, and cinnamon.

Air fryer dehydrated watermelon

Dehydrated watermelon is a tasty, sweet, and healthy snack that can be easily made at home using an air fryer. It is a great way to preserve watermelon and enjoy it throughout the year. Here is a step-by-step guide to making delicious dehydrated watermelon slices using your air fryer.

Ingredients:

• Watermelon: Choose a large, ripe watermelon for the best flavour as dehydration concentrates the natural sugars.
• Lemon Juice (Optional): A sprinkle of lemon juice can enhance the watermelon's flavour and preserve its colour.
• Sea Salt (Optional): A light sprinkle of sea salt can balance the sweetness and bring out the flavour of the watermelon.

Instructions:

• Preparation: Cut the watermelon into thin, even slices. The key to successful dehydration is to ensure all slices are of a consistent thickness. Thinner slices will dehydrate faster and become crispier, while thicker slices will take longer and have a chewier texture.
• Seasoning (Optional): If desired, sprinkle lemon juice and/or sea salt lightly over the watermelon slices.
• Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the watermelon slices in the air fryer basket or tray, ensuring they do not overlap. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to dehydrate in batches.
• Dehydration Process: If your air fryer has a dehydration setting, use that. If not, set it to the lowest temperature, typically around 120-140°F (50-60°C).
• Cooking Time: Dehydrate the watermelon for around 4-8 hours. The time may vary depending on the thickness of the slices, the temperature setting, and the water content of the watermelon. The slices are ready when they are fully dried and have a leathery texture. Check the slices occasionally to prevent overheating or burning.
• Cooling and Storing: Once the slices are dehydrated, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.

Tips for Optimal Results:

• Choose the Right Watermelon: Select a ripe watermelon that is uniform in shape and colour and sounds hollow when tapped.
• Consistent Slices: Cut the watermelon into even slices to ensure even dehydration.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Do not overlap the slices in the air fryer to prevent uneven drying.
• Patience is Key: Dehydration is a slow process. Do not rush it by increasing the temperature, as this may burn the watermelon before it is fully dehydrated.
• Check Regularly: Monitor the watermelon slices during dehydration to avoid burning.
• Storage: Store dehydrated watermelon in an airtight container in a cool, dry, and dark place to maintain freshness. Properly stored, it can last for several months.
• Experiment with Flavours: Try adding a sprinkle of chili powder or a squeeze of lime for a unique flavour experience.

Air fryer grilled watermelon

A creative and fun way to cook watermelon is by grilling it in an air fryer. This method of cooking watermelon gives it a grilled, smoky flavour and is a delightful side, salad, appetiser, or dessert.

Ingredients:

• Watermelon
• Olive Oil
• Lemon or Lime Juice
• Cinnamon
• Feta Cheese
• Fresh Mint
• Balsamic Vinegar or Teriyaki Sauce

Steps:

First, prepare the watermelon slices by brushing each slice with olive oil on both sides. Then, drizzle both sides with lemon or lime juice. Line the bottom of the air fryer basket with parchment paper to make cleaning up easier. Place the watermelon slices in the basket in a single layer.

Air fry the watermelon at 400°F/200°C for 5 minutes. Then, flip the watermelon over and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, or until the melon is heated through and starting to brown.

Finally, transfer the watermelon slices to plates. Add crumbled feta cheese, fresh mint, and cinnamon. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar, and enjoy!

Tips:

Seedless watermelon works best for this recipe, but you can also use watermelon with seeds and simply pick them out before cooking. You can remove the rind if you prefer, as it gives the dish more of a "watermelon steak" feeling.

This recipe is perfect for summer and can be served as a vegetarian meal or as a side dish with grilled meat.

Frequently asked questions