I’ve been told, these are “Hands down the best ribs ever!” I can’t take all the credit. Oh. OK. I guess I will. Remember, have a fifth on the fourth!
Best Ever Baby Back Ribs & Watermelon Salad with Cucumber, Feta & Honey-Lime Dressing
2 racks of baby back ribs
2 tablespoons smoked paprika
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
Kosher salt & fresh-ground pepper, to taste
Cayenne pepper, to taste
1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Preheat your oven to 275°F
Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs. It can be tough and chewy if left on.
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper and cayenne pepper.
Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs. Make sure to really massage it into the meat.
Wrap each rack in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the ribs are tender.
While the ribs are baking, prepare your BBQ glaze by mixing the BBQ sauce with the apple cider vinegar in a small saucepan. Simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally.
After the ribs are done baking, remove them from the oven and carefully unwrap the foil. Watch out for the steam!
Brush the ribs generously with the BBQ glaze.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the ribs on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes, turning and basting with more glaze every few minutes, until the ribs are caramelized and slightly charred.
Remove from the grill, let them rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve!
Watermelon Salad with Cucumber, Feta & Honey-Lime Dressing
For The Honey-Lime Dressing
4 tablespoons honey
4 tablespoons lime juice
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
pinch of salt
For The Watermelon Salad
1 watermelon peeled, cut into cubes
1 red onion, halved & sliced into thin half-moons
2 English or Hot House cucumber, cubed
2 cups fresh cilantro, chopped or torn basil
1 cup crumbled feta cheese, more to your liking
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, lime juice, olive oil and pinch of salt. Set aside.
Make the Salad: In a large bowl or serving platter, combine the watermelon, cucumbers, onions and fresh herbs.
Top the watermelon salad with the dressing and gently toss to combine. Top with the feta cheese and serve!