Sure, you might buy precut watermelon from the grocery store, but why bother?
Pick up a whole one and cut it yourself.
Freshly cut watermelon is far superior in flavor and texture, plus it’s cheaper too.
Photo: Elizabeth Laseter.
The thing is, cutting a whole watermelon is a lot likecutting a whole pineapple.
Where exactly do you start?
In this step-by-step guide, I’ll show you the best (and easiest!)
Photo: Elizabeth Laseter.
way to cut a watermelon.
So how do you know when a watermelon is ripe?
There are a few tricks you’re able to give a shot to help you out.
Photo: Elizabeth Laseter.
What’s the easiest way to tell?
Simply pick it up!
Color:Look for a yellow spot on the green skin.
Photo: Elizabeth Laseter.
Feel:Give your watermelon a good knock.
Does it sound hollow on the inside?
If yes, then you’ve picked a winner.
Photo: Elizabeth Laseter.
If no, then it’s probably underripe.
If you have the option of buying aseedless watermelon, I suggest doing it.
Seedless watermelon works better in recipes, too.
Photo: Elizabeth Laseter.
How to Cut Watermelon
Ready to get started?
First, confirm you have a good-qualitylarge serrated knifeand alarge cutting board.
The sawing motion of this knife makes those tougher first cuts through the watermelon’s skin a lot easier.
Photo: Elizabeth Laseter.
Before we dive in, it would also be helpful to know the difference betweenlengthwiseandcrosswise.
Lengthwise is pole-to-pole, meaning along the “length” of the food.
For example, for a tomato, lengthwise would be the base to the stem.
Photo: Elizabeth Laseter.
Crosswise is simply the opposite direction or a 90-degree angle to your lengthwise cut.
Peel away the top layer to access thewatermelon rind, which has a crunchy texture like a cucumber.
But what can you do with it?
Watermelon rind is delicious pickled and added to salads, grain bowls and more.
This is also a good opportunity to wipe down your cutting board.
You want it to be dry before you move on to the next step.
Watermelon is perishable, and storing it in larger pieces helps it stay fresher longer.
Step 6: Cut Crosswise Into Cubes
Now, pat yourself on the back.
You’ve successfully cut a whole watermelon!
Here’s an easy way to store cut watermelon in the refrigerator to stay juicy and crisp.
Refrigerator Storage
What You’ll Need:
1.
Line a food-storage container with paper towels.
Arrange watermelon in a single layer inside the container.
Place another layer of paper towels over the watermelon.
Repeat with the remaining watermelon, making sure to separate each layer with paper towels.
Consume within 5 to 7 days, making sure to change out the paper towels every other day.
Discard any watermelon that starts to feel mushy.
For more delicious ideas, be sure to check out our full collection ofHealthy Watermelon Recipes.
In the meantime, here are a few suggestions to whet your appetite.
