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Watermelon

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is a juicy, refreshing fruit known for its vibrant green exterior and sweet, red or yellow flesh speckled with black seeds. This fruit, native to Africa, is a popular summertime treat due to its high water content, comprising about 92% water, which helps to cool and hydrate during hot weather. Not only is watermelon a flavorful and thirst-quenching snack, but it also offers numerous health benefits. It is rich in essential nutrients like vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants such as lycopene, which contributes to its delicious taste and overall well-being.
#19
IN FRESH FRUIT
30
CAL / 100G
$0.08
AVG / OZ
watermelon
91%
CARBS
2%
FAT
7%
PROTEIN
Watermelon FAQ
Watermelons are often a go-to summertime treat, but they can sometimes be intimidating to handle given their size and can get messy very quickly. One of the key areas that people often go wrong is in choosing the right watermelon, as appearance alone does not attest to the quality of the fruit inside. To get the best out of your watermelon, you need to know what to look out for when purchasing. One trick is to look for a uniform shape, deep green color, and a noticeable 'field spot.' The field spot is the part of the watermelon that was resting on the ground and it should be a dark creamy-yellow color, indicating that it's ripe. Serving watermelon can also be a bit tricky. Instead of cutting it into large rounds and then into triangles, consider cutting it into manageable cubes or utilizing a melon baller. This can make it easier to enjoy without getting juice everywhere and reduces waste. Another little-known tip about watermelons is that you can use nearly every part of them. The rind can be turned into pickles, jams, or chutneys, and the seeds are delicious when roasted and salted. You cans even juice the watermelon for a refreshing drink or freeze the juice in ice cube trays to add to your beverages in the summer. Lastly, many people think watermelon is just water and sugar, but it is actually full of nutrients. It contains high levels of vitamins A, B6 and C, as well as antioxidants and amino acids. There's even a little bit of potassium. So, don't just save watermelon for a picnic or BBQ. With these tips, you can maximize this juicy fruit to its full potential.
How can I tell if a watermelon is ripe?
How should I cut a watermelon?
Is it okay to eat watermelon seeds?
Can I cook with watermelon?
Can you juice a watermelon?
Can I do anything with the watermelon rind?
How can I make my watermelon sweeter?
Can I grill watermelon?
Is watermelon just water and sugar?
Why do some watermelons have yellow flesh?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does watermelon expire?
Once cut, a watermelon can typically last in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. If you leave it uncut at room temperature, it should stay fresh for about a week or up to 10 days. Try to consume cut watermelon within this timeframe to enjoy the best taste and texture. While it's uncommon to freeze an entire watermelon, pureed or cubed watermelon can be frozen and used within 6 months for items like smoothies.
How do you tell if watermelon is bad?
A watermelon that has gone bad is often easy to spot. The outer skin might start to look dull instead of shiny and smooth, and soft spots or dark patches may appear. Another sign is if you see liquid pooling underneath it, a likely indication that the interior is starting to decompose. One of the most telling signs is a funky, off-putting smell. If it's sliced, any slime or mold on the fruit's surface is a clear sign that it has spoiled.
Tips for storing watermelon to extend shelf life
• Always wash the outside of the watermelon before cutting it to prevent bacteria on the skin from contaminating the flesh. • Once a watermelon has been cut, wrap the cut side in plastic wrap or store the slices in an airtight container in the fridge. This will keep the watermelon fresh and prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods. • If you want to prolong the shelf life of your watermelon, consider pureeing it and storing in airtight containers in the freezer. This is a great way to store the watermelon for use in smoothies, sorbets, or cocktails during the off-season. • For uncut watermelons, store them in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Don’t wash it until you’re ready to eat it as water can hasten spoilage.
EXPIRES WITHIN
11 - 24
DAYS
Health Info
Macros
11g
CARBS
0g
FAT
0g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
VEGETARIAN
KETO
PALEO
WHOLE 30
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
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