GRILLED WATERMELON WITH WHIPPED FETA DIP

Grilled Watermelon with Whipped Feta Dip image

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Categories appetizer

Time 20m

Yield 6 to 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 8

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Neutral oil, for the grates if grilling outdoors
1 small seedless watermelon (3 to 4 pounds)
2 cloves garlic, peeled
One 7-ounce block good-quality feta, packed in brine, brine reserved (see Cook's Note)
1/4 cup nonfat Greek yogurt (see Cook's Note)
2 teaspoons packed fresh herbs, such as dill, mint or thyme leaves, plus more for serving
Honey, for serving
Freshly cracked black pepper

Steps:

Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat. If using an outdoor grill, preheat over medium-high heat until a thermometer registers 500 degrees F; clean and lightly oil the grill grates. See Cook's Note.
Cut the watermelon in half lengthwise. Cut each half into 1-inch thick slices shaped like half-moons. Working in batches, grill the watermelon slices, uncovered, until just marked, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a rimmed baking sheet to cool slightly. Once cool enough to touch, cut the watermelon into triangles, leaving the rind intact to serve as a handle for dipping.
Pulse the garlic in a food processor until minced. Add the feta, yogurt , herbs and 2 tablespoons of the feta brine. Process until whipped and smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. Transfer to a small bowl. Top with a drizzle of honey, pepper and more herbs.
Transfer the grilled watermelon "dippers" to a platter and serve with the feta dip.