Grilled Watermelon with Sweet Basil Coulis

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 Tbsp honey or agave nectar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 small seedless watermelon, cut into large triangles, and at room temperature
• 1/2 cup cold heavy cream
• ½ tsp vanilla
• 1 tsp sugar
• optional: crushed pistachios

Basil Coulis:

Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil and reduce by half. Mixture should be slightly thickened. Add honey and salt and stir, then remove from heat. Add basil leaves and mix to combine. Let cool 10 minutes, then mix in a blender or food processor until smooth. set aside.

Using an outdoor grill or an indoor Nordic Ware grill pan or griddle with searing lines, sear watermelon on medium-high heat 30-45 seconds per side, just long enough to create flavorful and visible marks.

Whipped Cream:

In a chilled glass or stainless bowl, whip cream on high until soft peaks form. Gently mix in sugar and vanilla. To serve, plate 2 watermelon wedges for each person, with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a teaspoon of basil coulis drizzled on top in a decorative manner. Top with pistachios and serve.