Watermelon is naturally sweet, incredibly refreshing on a hot day, and surprisingly versatile. It can anchor a salad, become the base of a smoothie, or blend into a refreshing summer cocktail. If you’re only slicing it into cubes, you’re missing out!
It’s watermelon season and I am here for it!
Every summer, I buy at least one watermelon that’s far larger than I intended. It looks reasonable in the store, but then I get it home and remember that a whole watermelon is a whole lot of watermelon.
Luckily there are endless ways to put it to use. I cut it into cubes (here’s the best way to cut a watermelon!), then I add it to salads, blend it into smoothies and cocktails, snack on it with Tajin sprinkled on top, and if I’m feeling really wild, I dice it up really small and add it to guacamole. (Seriously, you have to try it.)
Watermelon is my favorite for summer because:
- It’s at its Best Right Now. Watermelon is sweetest during the summer months, which means you don’t have to do much to make it taste great.
- Watermelon Is Budget-Friendly. A whole watermelon can stretch across breakfasts, snacks, salads, and even drinks, making it one of the more economical summer fruits.
- It Keeps You Cool. Watermelon is more than 90% water, so it’s super refreshing on hot days.
- You Can Do It Sweet or Savory. Pair it with feta, herbs, lime, chili powder, or blend it into smoothies and cocktails. Its mild sweetness makes it surprisingly versatile.
How to Pick a Good Watermelon
Choosing a ripe watermelon doesn’t have to be a guessing game. A few things I look for:
- Creamy Yellow Field Spot. This is where the melon rested on the ground. The deeper yellow it is, the longer the watermelon had to ripen.
- Heavy Feel. A ripe watermelon should feel heavier than it looks because it’s full of juice.
- Dull, Not Shiny, Rind. Glossy watermelons are often less mature than those with a more matte finish.
- A Symmetrical Shape. Round or oval is fine, but avoid melons with large flat spots or irregular bumps.
3 Ways to Use Watermelon This Week
