Everything You Need To Know About Watermelon (2024)

Learn Everything You Need To Know About Watermelon --- Discover the art of selecting the perfect watermelon, the best way to cut them, learn if dogs can eat watermelon, and uncover more tips + tricks—explore everything you need to know about enjoying this summer favorite to the fullest.

This post has Everything You Need To Know About Watermelon! Nothing compares to biting into a juicy, ripe watermelon on a scorching summer day. However, we've all experienced the disappointment of picking a bad one that turns out flavorless and mealy.

That's where this article comes in—discover how to choose the perfect watermelon, learn how to cut watermelon, explore delicious watermelon recipes, uncover their health benefits, find out can dogs can eat watermelon? And SO much more!

What Does A Good Watermelon Taste Like?

• Naturally sugary + delightful, like candy from nature.
• Bursting with refreshing juice that hydrates + satisfies.
• The flesh should be firm, not mushy, with that classic satisfying crunch.
• Perfectly cooling, making it the ideal treat on a hot day.
• Watermelon is so healthy for us and has so many benefits!

How To Pick A Good Watermelon

We've all experienced the disappointment of cutting into a watermelon only to find it lacking in flavor and juiciness. But don't worry—these tips will help you score the best watermelon every time! Here is how to pick a good watermelon:

Look for a Uniform Shape

Choose a watermelon that is symmetrical and free from irregular bumps or indentations.

Check the Field Spot

Look for a creamy yellow or orange spot on the bottom of the watermelon, indicating it ripened on the vine.

Tap + Listen

Give the watermelon a gentle tap with your knuckles—it should sound hollow, indicating that it is ripe and full of juice.

Inspect the Skin

The skin should be firm, smooth, and without cuts or bruises.

Pick It Up And Feel It

A heavy watermelon for its size typically indicates ripeness, as it is filled with water.

Smell the Stem

A sweet fragrance from the stem end suggests it is ready to eat.

How To Prep Watermelon For Cutting

To prepare a watermelon for cutting, start by washing it thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris from the skin. Next, secure your workspace with a stable cutting board + a sharp knife that can easily cut through the watermelon's tough rind.

Once your workspace is ready, place the watermelon on the cutting board and slice off both ends to create stable bases for further cutting.

How To Cut A Watermelon

There are several ways to cut a whole watermelon --- but I'm going to share my 5 favorite methods ---- the classic wedges, cubes, balls, and the super handy watermelon sticks.

• Wedges. Start by cutting the watermelon in half lengthwise, then place each half flat side down and cut into wedges.
• Cubes. Cut the watermelon into slices, then cut each slice into strips. Rotate the strips and cut them again to create cubes.
• Balls. Use a melon baller to scoop out round balls of watermelon flesh for a fun + decorative presentation.
• Sticks. Slice the watermelon into thick slices, then cut each slice into long sticks for a convenient grab-and-go snack.
• Boats. Cut the watermelon in half lengthwise and then into quarters. Scoop out the flesh of each quarter with a spoon, leaving the rind intact, to create edible watermelon boats.

How To Use Watermelon

Watermelon is SO versatile—it's perfect for snacking on slices or cubes, adding to fruit salads with feta + mint, or blending into juices, smoothies + mocktails. Personally, I love using watermelon for refreshing drinks like:

• Watermelon Strawberry Lime Mocktail
• Fresh Watermelon Cucumber Mint Juice
• Refreshing Pink Lemonade
• Strawberry Basil Pineapple Mocktail
• Spicy Watermelon Mojito Mocktail
• Frozen Watermelon Margarita Mocktail

How To Store Watermelon

To keep your watermelon tasting its best, here’s what I do:

Uncut Watermelon

If it's whole and uncut, I leave it at room temperature, away from direct sunlight + heat.

Cut Watermelon:

Once I've sliced it up, I store the pieces in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. They go right into the fridge, where they stay fresh for about 4-5 days.

Freezing for Later

Sometimes I cut the watermelon into cubes and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, I transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 6 months. Perfect for putting into smoothies or a frozen watermelon margarita!

Can Dogs Eat Watermelon?

Wondering if your furry friend can eat some watermelon? Good news—dogs can eat watermelon! It's a safe + healthy treat for dogs to eat --- especially on hot days, thanks to its high water content. Watermelon is also packed with vitamins A, B6, and C, as well as potassium, which are great for your pup.

Just remember to give it in moderation to avoid digestive issues, and always remove the seeds + rind to prevent choking hazards and stomach problems.

Is Watermelon Healthy?

Absolutely, watermelon is very healthy! It's packed with nutrients and offers several health benefits like:

It's so hydrating. With over 90% water content, it's great for keeping you hydrated, especially on hot days.

Rich in vitamins. It's loaded with vitamins A, B6, and C, which support your immune system, skin health, and energy levels.

Loaded with antioxidants. Contains antioxidants like lycopene and cucurbitacin E, which help protect your cells from damage and reduce inflammation.

Great for heart health. Lycopene in watermelon is linked to improved heart health.

Digestive health. The fiber in watermelon supports healthy digestion.

There you have it— I hope learning about watermelonsencourages you to try them out! If you are looking for any meal inspiration check out my"What To Eat This Week"series for some seriously delicious + healthy eats.

More Wellness Tips You Will Enjoy

If you loved learning aboutWatermelonand how healthy it is for you then check out these health + wellness tips next:

• 12 Favorite Healthy Green Leafy Vegetables
• Healthy Oils To Use For Everyday Cooking
• What the World's Longest Living People Are Eating
• Why Flour Lasts Longer When Refrigerated
• Jamaican Herbs That You Should Always Keep On Hand + Remedies

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