Watermelon is a great way to enjoy summer. Many people just cut a watermelon open and into slices, but to there are so many other ways to enjoy watermelons, including the rind, for breakfast, lunch, snacks, or dinner. The best parts is that it is a guilt-free indulgence of only 43 calories per cup! Watermelon can be included in many diets.
In the past, watermelons were so large that they barely fit in the refrigerator, they were difficult to wash in the sink and to cut. According to the National Watermelon Promotion Board, today’s melon producers are growing melons that are of a size that are easier to wash and cut. Customers often prefer seedless and a smaller melon is a perfect size for a family or couple.
Selecting a Watermelon
- Choose the size based on what you and your family will eat in a few days
- Whole melon can be stored at room temperature for 1 week.
- Whole melon can be stored for 2 weeks at 50-60 degree F.
- Look for a melon that is firm, heavy, and symmetrical with a creamy, yellow spot on the underside where it lays on the ground
- A yellow spot is better than white, but white is better than no creamy color patch at all
- Your watermelon should feel heavy for its size, so compare its weight with one of a similar size
- Avoid melons with bruises, cuts, dents or soft spots
- Tap, just a tap the outside and listen for a light and almost hollow sounding thud
- This indicates that the water and fruit are intact and has a stable structure
Food Safety and Melons
Because melons grow on the ground, they can become contaminated with microbes that are present in both soil and animal droppings. If you were to slice into an unwashed melon this could contaminate the fleshy edible fruit. Before you cut into your watermelon:
- Wash your hands and start with a clean food preparation area.
- Use cool running water to clean the outside surface.
- Use a veggie brush to scrub the surface of the melon.
- Dry the melon with a disposable paper towel after “washing”.
- Use a clean knife, to cut and prepare as desired.
- Cut watermelon needs to be refrigerated in a covered container.
- Covered, cut melon will keep 3 to 4 days.
Things To Do With Watermelon
There are many ways to use watermelon beyond slicing it.
Watermelon is great for:
- Chilled Soup
- Drinks, Punch, or Slushies
- Salads
- Salsa
- Smoothies
- Sorbet
- Sports Rehydration
Freeze watermelon, yes freeze it!
- Remove the seeds and the rind
- Cut the melon into small cubes, slices or balls
- Pack the melon into plastic freezer containers or bags
- By usable serving size
- By planned purpose, i.e. smoothie
- Seal the container by removing as much air as possible
- Most frozen fruits maintain a good quality for 3 to 6 months.
- For the best texture serve the frozen watermelon before it becomes completely thawed.
Preserve Watermelon Rind
Melons are a summer favorite that can be enjoyed into the fall. For lots of fun ideas and recipes, explore the National Watermelon Association.
This article was adapted from a Family Matters Newsletter written by past Family and Consumer Science Specialist, Anne Zander in August 2018.
Live Smart Colorado feature articles, developed by Colorado State University Extension specialists, provide research-based, practical information to support lifelong nutrition, physical, financial, and emotional health and well-being for Coloradans.