Watermelon: A Guide to Buying, Cooking With, and Storing

Welcome to our ultimate guide to watermelon! This juicy, refreshing fruit is a staple of the Aussie summer and is packed with health benefits. Whether you’re a watermelon lover or just discovering its deliciousness, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about buying, cooking with, and storing watermelon.

From tips on selecting the perfect watermelon to recipes that showcase its versatility, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we’ll explore the health benefits of watermelon, including its role in hydration, weight loss, and digestion.

So, let’s dive into the world of watermelon and discover all the ways you can enjoy this summer treat.

Key Takeaways:

• Watermelon is a juicy and refreshing fruit that is a summer staple in Australia.
• Learn how to select the perfect watermelon, cook delicious recipes with it, and store it for maximum freshness.
• Watermelon offers numerous health benefits, including hydration, weight loss, and digestion.
• Explore exciting recipes for watermelon drinks, salads, desserts, and more.
• Don’t limit your watermelon enjoyment to just the summer months – learn how to preserve and freeze it for year-round deliciousness.

Buying the Best Watermelon

Watermelons are a staple of Australian summers, and buying the perfect one can make all the difference. Here are some tips to help you select the ripest and juiciest watermelon:

1. Look for uniform shape: Ripe watermelons are usually oval or round in shape. Choose one that is symmetrical and without any dents, bruises, or cuts on the surface.
2. Check the ground spot: The ground spot is the area of the watermelon that was resting on the ground while it was growing. Look for a creamy yellow spot, which indicates that the watermelon has ripened on the vine and is ready to eat.
3. Tap it: Give the watermelon a tap with your knuckles. If it produces a deep, hollow sound, it’s ripe and juicy. If it sounds dull or flat, it’s likely overripe or underripe.
4. Check the weight: Ripe watermelons are heavy for their size because they are full of water. Pick up a few watermelons of similar size and choose the heaviest one.
5. Look for the sugar spot: The sugar spot is an area on the watermelon where sugar has concentrated. It’s a good sign if you see a dark, rough patch on the watermelon.

Once you bring your watermelon home, store it properly to keep it fresh for longer. Keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. You can also store it in the fridge to keep it cool and crisp.

Different Varieties of Watermelon

Watermelon is more than just a juicy and refreshing fruit – it is available in a variety of types, each with its unique flavor and characteristics. Knowing the different varieties of watermelon can help you make the right choice and enhance your culinary experience. Here’s a rundown of the most common types of watermelon found in Australia:

Variety Name	Appearance	Characteristics
Yellow Doll		This type of watermelon has a bright yellow flesh and a thin rind. It is known for its sweetness and is perfect for eating fresh or in a fruit salad.
Sugar Baby		The Sugar Baby is a small, round watermelon with a dark green rind and deep red flesh. It is very juicy and sweet, making it perfect for eating fresh or in drinks.
Crimson Sweet		This type of watermelon has a hard, dark green rind and deep red, juicy flesh. It is known for its sweetness and is perfect for eating fresh or in a salad.
Charleston Gray		The Charleston Gray watermelon is known for its oblong shape and gray-green rind. It has a firm texture and a sweet flavor, making it perfect for eating fresh or in a salad.

Other types of watermelon include the Jubilee, Yellow Crimson, and Moon and Stars varieties. Each type has its unique flavor and texture, so be sure to try them all to find your personal favorite!

Cooking with Watermelon

Watermelon isn’t just a delicious summer snack – it’s also a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes. If you’re looking to add some watermelon to your cooking repertoire, check out these mouth-watering recipes that are sure to impress your taste buds:

Watermelon and Feta Salad

This refreshing salad is perfect for a hot summer day. Simply combine diced watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, chopped mint, and a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Serve chilled for a light and tasty appetizer or side dish.

Ingredients	Instructions
4 cups diced seedless watermelon	1. In a large bowl, combine watermelon, feta cheese, and mint.
1 cup crumbled feta cheese	2. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and toss to coat.
2 tablespoons chopped mint	3. Serve chilled and enjoy!
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Watermelon Gazpacho

This refreshing and savory chilled soup is perfect for a summer lunch or dinner. Combine diced watermelon, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, garlic, and a splash of red wine vinegar in a blender. Blend until smooth, then season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve chilled with a garnish of chopped fresh herbs.

Ingredients	Instructions
4 cups diced seedless watermelon	1. Combine watermelon, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, garlic, and red wine vinegar in a blender.
2 tomatoes, diced	2. Blend until smooth.
1 cucumber, peeled and diced	3. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
1/2 red onion, diced	4. Serve chilled with chopped fresh herbs for garnish.
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

Watermelon Sorbet

Cool off with this refreshing and easy-to-make watermelon sorbet. Simply blend frozen watermelon chunks with a splash of lime juice, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth. Freeze for several hours, then serve and enjoy!

Ingredients	Instructions
4 cups frozen watermelon chunks	1. In a blender, combine frozen watermelon chunks, lime juice, honey, and vanilla extract.
2 tablespoons lime juice	2. Blend until smooth.
2 tablespoons honey	3. Pour mixture into a freezer-safe container and freeze for several hours, or until firm.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract	4. Serve and enjoy!

These are just a few of the many ways you can incorporate watermelon into your cooking. Experiment with different recipes and techniques to discover new and exciting ways to enjoy this delicious summer fruit!

Refreshing Watermelon Drinks

On a hot summer day, nothing beats sipping on a refreshing watermelon drink. This juicy fruit is not only perfect for snacking, but it can also be the star of your favorite summer beverages.

Here are some easy and tasty watermelon drink recipes to keep you cool:

Watermelon Smoothie

If you’re looking for a healthy and hydrating drink, try this delicious watermelon smoothie:

• 2 cups of diced watermelon
• 1/2 cup of coconut water
• 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice
• 1/2 inch of fresh ginger

Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Add ice if desired.

Watermelon Lemonade

Add some zing to your classic lemonade with watermelon. Here’s how to make it:

• 1 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 cup of sugar
• 4 cups of watermelon cubes, seeded
• 4 cups of water

In a blender, blend the watermelon until it’s smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher. In another bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is dissolved.

Add the lemon mixture and water to the watermelon puree. Stir well and refrigerate until chilled.

Watermelon Mint Fizz

For a refreshing summer mocktail, try this watermelon mint fizz:

• 1/2 cup of watermelon juice
• 1/4 cup of fresh mint leaves
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 1 cup of sparkling water

Combine the watermelon juice, fresh mint leaves, and honey in a glass. Muddle the ingredients together until the mint leaves are fragrant. Add ice and top with sparkling water. Stir gently and enjoy!

These watermelon drinks are perfect for all your summer gatherings, picnics, and barbeques. So go ahead and enjoy the sweet, juicy goodness of watermelon!

Watermelon Salad Recipes

Watermelon salad is a refreshing and colorful addition to any summer meal. Here are some delicious and easy recipes to try:

1. Watermelon Feta Salad

   This tangy and sweet salad combines the juicy goodness of watermelon with the salty flavor of feta cheese. To make it, simply chop up some watermelon, cube some feta cheese, and add a handful of fresh mint leaves. Drizzle some olive oil and balsamic vinegar on top, and you’re all set! This salad is perfect as a light lunch or side dish.

2. Arugula Watermelon Salad

   This salad is a great way to mix up your regular salad routine. Combine spicy arugula with sweet watermelon chunks, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped walnuts. Drizzle some honey and lemon vinaigrette on top, and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors.

3. Watermelon and Cucumber Salad

   This salad is perfect for hot summer days when you need something light and refreshing. Simply chop up some watermelon and cucumber, and mix them together in a bowl. Add some chopped red onion, feta cheese, and fresh mint leaves. Dress with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and enjoy!

These watermelon salad recipes are easy to make and packed with flavor. They’re a great way to add some color and nutrition to your summer meals. Enjoy!

Watermelon Desserts

Indulge in the sweetness of summer with delicious watermelon desserts. From frozen treats to cakes and tarts, there’s a watermelon dessert for every occasion.

“Watermelon and dessert? Yes, please! These desserts are an absolute party favorite – they’re sweet, refreshing, and perfect for beating the summer heat.”

Frozen Watermelon Popsicles

Cool off with these frozen watermelon popsicles that are sure to be a hit with adults and kids alike. They’re easy to make and require only a few ingredients.

Ingredients	Instructions
4 cups of watermelon chunks (seedless)	1. Blend the watermelon chunks in a blender until smooth.
1/4 cup of fresh lime juice	2. Add the lime juice and honey into the blender and mix well.
2 tbsp of honey	3. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds and freeze until solid.

Watermelon Sorbet

For a more sophisticated dessert, try this watermelon sorbet that’s bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for impressing guests at a summer dinner party.

Ingredients	Instructions
4 cups of watermelon chunks (seedless)	1. Blend the watermelon chunks in a blender until smooth.
1/2 cup of sugar	2. Combine the sugar and water in a saucepan and heat until the sugar dissolves.
1/4 cup of water	3. Add the watermelon puree and lemon juice to the sugar syrup and mix well.
1 tbsp of lemon juice	4. Chill the mixture in the fridge for at least an hour.
	5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Watermelon and Mint Salad

If you’re looking for a light and refreshing dessert, try this watermelon and mint salad. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a healthy dessert option.

Ingredients	Instructions
4 cups of watermelon chunks (seedless)	1. Toss the watermelon chunks, mint leaves, and feta cheese in a bowl.
1/4 cup of fresh mint leaves	2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, lime juice, and olive oil to make the dressing.
1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese	3. Pour the dressing over the watermelon mixture and gently toss to combine.
2 tbsp of honey	4. Chill the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
1 tbsp of lime juice
2 tbsp of olive oil

These watermelon desserts are perfect for any summer occasion. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a refreshing treat, try one of these recipes and indulge in the sweetness of summer.

Storing Watermelon

Proper storage is essential to keep your watermelon fresh and juicy for longer. Here are some tips to help you store watermelon:

• Store whole watermelons at room temperature until they are cut.
• Once cut, store watermelon in a covered container in the refrigerator.
• Use the cut watermelon within three to four days.
• If you have extra cut watermelon, freeze it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen watermelon can be used for smoothies or sorbets.

It’s important to note that watermelon does not ripen after it has been picked, so be sure to choose a ripe one when buying.

Comparing Storage Methods

To help you determine the best way to store your watermelon, we’ve compared different storage methods:

Storage Method	Pros	Cons
Room Temperature	Keeps the watermelon juicy and flavorful	The watermelon will only last a few days before it starts to spoil
Refrigerator	Keeps the watermelon fresh for up to a week	The cold temperature can affect the flavor and texture of the watermelon
Freezer	Frozen watermelon can be stored for up to 8 months	The texture of the watermelon may change after being frozen

By following these tips and comparing the different storage methods, you can keep your watermelon fresh and juicy for longer, ensuring that you can enjoy its delicious taste all summer long.

Health Benefits of Watermelon

Watermelon is a refreshing and delicious summer fruit that offers numerous health benefits. In this section, we’ll explore how incorporating this juicy treat into your diet can have a positive impact on your health and well-being.

Hydration

Given its high water content, watermelon is an excellent choice for staying hydrated during the hot summer months. Eating watermelon and other water-rich fruits and vegetables can help you meet your daily fluid intake needs and prevent dehydration.

According to a study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, watermelon can help improve hydration status and reduce inflammation in athletes. So, whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just looking to stay cool in the summer heat, watermelon is an ideal choice for staying hydrated.

Vitamin C

Watermelon is also a good source of vitamin C, a nutrient that plays a critical role in supporting a healthy immune system. Vitamin C helps protect cells from damage, supports the production of collagen, and improves iron absorption.

According to the National Institutes of Health, one cup of diced watermelon contains about 12.5 mg of vitamin C, which is around 14% of the daily recommended intake for adults. Incorporating watermelon into your diet is an easy way to give your immune system a natural boost.

Antioxidants

Watermelon contains antioxidants, such as lycopene and vitamin C, that can help protect your body against damage from harmful free radicals. Lycopene is a natural pigment that gives watermelon its red color, and it has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, cancer, and other chronic health conditions.

A study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology found that watermelon juice can help reduce oxidative stress in the body and improve antioxidant capacity. So, if you’re looking for a tasty way to boost your antioxidant intake, watermelon is a great choice.

Weight Loss

If you’re trying to lose weight, watermelon can be a great addition to your diet. Not only is it low in calories – one cup of diced watermelon contains just 46 calories – but it’s also high in fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied after eating.

A study published in the journal Nutrients found that eating watermelon can help reduce body weight, waist circumference, and body fat in overweight and obese adults. So, if you’re looking for a healthy snack that can help support your weight loss goals, reach for a slice of watermelon.

Digestion

Watermelon is also packed with fiber, a nutrient that plays a crucial role in promoting healthy digestion. Fiber helps keep your digestive system running smoothly by adding bulk to your stools and promoting regular bowel movements.

According to the American Heart Association, one cup of diced watermelon contains about 0.6 grams of fiber, which is around 2% of the daily recommended intake for adults. While this may seem like a small amount, every bit counts when it comes to supporting your digestive health.

As you can see, watermelon is more than just a tasty summer treat – it’s also a nutrient-packed fruit that offers numerous health benefits. From supporting hydration and digestion to boosting your immune system and aiding in weight loss, watermelon is a delicious and nutritious addition to any diet.

Watermelon and Hydration

It’s important to stay hydrated, especially during hot summer days, and watermelon can help you do just that! With a high water content of 92%, watermelon is a refreshing and tasty way to keep your body hydrated.

In fact, consuming watermelon regularly can even contribute to your daily fluid intake. According to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, men should drink about 3.7 liters of fluids per day while women should drink about 2.7 liters. However, these recommendations may vary depending on your activity level, age, and other factors.

Whether you enjoy watermelon sliced, cubed, or blended into a smoothie, this summer fruit is an excellent choice for staying hydrated. So go ahead and indulge in this tasty and refreshing snack!

Fun Fact

Did you know that watermelon is actually a member of the cucumber family? That’s right – watermelon, cucumbers, pumpkins, and squash all belong to the same plant family, known as Cucurbitaceae.

Watermelon for Vitamin C Boost

If you’re looking for a natural way to boost your vitamin C intake, watermelon is a delicious option. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps strengthen your immune system and protect your body against illness and disease.

Did you know that one cup of watermelon contains 21% of your recommended daily intake of vitamin C? That’s right – just one serving of this juicy fruit can help keep your immune system in top shape.

Watermelon is also a great choice for those hot summer days when you need to stay hydrated. As we know, staying hydrated is essential for optimal health and well-being.

So why not enjoy a refreshing slice of watermelon or whip up a watermelon smoothie to get your daily dose of vitamin C and stay cool at the same time?

Antioxidant Properties of Watermelon

Watermelon is a great source of antioxidants that can help protect your body against damage from free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to the development of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.

The antioxidants in watermelon, such as vitamin C and lycopene, work by neutralizing free radicals and preventing them from causing harm. Lycopene, in particular, is a powerful antioxidant that gives watermelon its red color. It has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer, including prostate cancer.

In addition to vitamin C and lycopene, watermelon also contains other antioxidants such as beta-carotene and cucurbitacin E. These antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties and can help improve overall health and wellbeing.

One study found that drinking watermelon juice increased antioxidant levels and reduced oxidative stress in overweight people. Another study found that watermelon extract improved antioxidant activity in the liver of rats exposed to high levels of alcohol.

Overall, incorporating watermelon into your diet is an easy and delicious way to boost your antioxidant intake and support your overall health.

Weight Loss and Watermelon

If you’re trying to lose weight, incorporating watermelon into your diet can be a smart choice. Not only is it a low-calorie fruit, but it’s also packed with nutrients that can help support your weight loss goals.

One of the reasons watermelon is considered a low-calorie option is because it’s mostly made up of water. In fact, one cup of diced watermelon contains only about 46 calories. This means you can enjoy a large portion of watermelon without consuming too many calories.

But watermelon isn’t just low in calories – it’s also high in fiber. Fiber is important for weight loss because it helps keep you feeling full for longer periods of time. This can help you eat less throughout the day, ultimately leading to weight loss.

In addition to being a great snacking option, watermelon can also be incorporated into meals to help with weight loss. Try adding diced watermelon to a salad for a refreshing pop of flavor, or blend it into a smoothie for a healthy, low-calorie meal replacement.

Incorporating watermelon into your diet can be a tasty and satisfying way to support your weight loss goals. So go ahead, enjoy this delicious and nutritious fruit as part of your healthy snacking routine.

Watermelon and Digestion

If you’re looking for a tasty and healthy way to support your digestive system, watermelon is the fruit for you. This juicy summer treat is packed with fiber, which is essential for maintaining digestive health.

Fiber helps ensure regular bowel movements, prevents constipation, and promotes the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut. In fact, just one cup of watermelon contains around 1.5 grams of fiber, making it a great snack for anyone looking to improve their digestive health.

Watermelon is also a hydrating fruit, which can help keep things moving along in the digestive tract. Staying hydrated is important for maintaining regularity and preventing discomfort.

So, if you’re looking to improve your digestion, try incorporating watermelon into your diet. Whether you enjoy it in a salad, smoothie, or on its own, this delicious fruit is sure to keep your digestive system happy and healthy.

Watermelon and Digestive Health Table

Benefits of Watermelon for Digestive Health	Details
Fiber content	One cup of watermelon contains around 1.5 grams of fiber, which promotes bowel regularity and prevents constipation.
Hydration	Watermelon is a hydrating fruit that helps keep the digestive tract moving and prevents discomfort.
Healthy bacteria growth	The fiber in watermelon promotes the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut, which is essential for maintaining digestive health.

“Watermelon is an excellent source of fiber, which is essential for maintaining digestive health. It helps keep things moving along in the digestive tract and prevents constipation.”

Enjoying Watermelon All Year Long

Watermelon is a beloved summer fruit, but did you know that it’s possible to enjoy it all year long? Whether you’ve got leftover watermelon from a summer BBQ or want to savor its sweet, juicy goodness in the cooler months, there are several ways to preserve and freeze watermelon for later use.

Preserving Watermelon

If you’ve got a whole watermelon that you can’t finish in one sitting, preserving it is a great way to ensure it stays fresh for longer. Here’s how to do it:

Steps to Preserve Watermelon	Benefits
Slice the watermelon into small cubes or balls.	Easy to serve and use in a variety of recipes.
Remove any seeds or rind.	Makes the watermelon easier to eat and cook with.
Place the cubes or balls into an airtight container.	Helps to keep the watermelon fresh for up to a week in the fridge.
Refrigerate the container until ready to use.	Ensures the watermelon stays fresh and juicy.

Preserved watermelon can be used in a variety of ways, from adding it to salads to making refreshing watermelon drinks. Experiment with different recipes to find your favorite way to enjoy preserved watermelon.

Freezing Watermelon

Freezing watermelon is another great way to preserve it for later use. Here’s how to do it:

1. Cut the watermelon into small cubes or balls.
2. Remove any seeds or rind.
3. Spread the cubes or balls out onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Freeze the watermelon for 2-3 hours, or until completely frozen.
5. Transfer the frozen watermelon to an airtight container or freezer bag.
6. Label the container with the date and contents.
7. Store the container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Frozen watermelon can be used in smoothies, sorbets, or as a refreshing snack on a hot day. It’s important to note that frozen watermelon may have a slightly different texture than fresh watermelon, but it’s still delicious.

Watermelon Recipes

If you’re looking for ways to enjoy your preserved or frozen watermelon, there are plenty of delicious recipes to try. Here are a few ideas:

• Watermelon and feta salad.
• Watermelon sorbet.
• Watermelon granita.
• Watermelon smoothie.
• Watermelon salsa.

Experiment with different recipes to find the perfect way to enjoy watermelon all year long.

So go ahead, stock up on watermelon and enjoy its deliciousness all year long. Whether you choose to preserve it or freeze it, there are plenty of ways to savor the sweet, juicy flavors of this beloved summer fruit.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You are now a watermelon expert, equipped with all the knowledge you need to buy, cook, and store watermelon like a pro. With its sweet and refreshing taste, versatility, and health benefits, watermelon is the perfect fruit to enjoy during the hot Australian summer months.

Remember to look for a ripe and juicy watermelon when you’re at the store, and try out some of the exciting recipes that showcase the deliciousness of watermelon. Whether it’s in a salad, smoothie, or dessert, watermelon is sure to be a hit at any summer gathering.

Don’t forget to store your watermelon properly to keep it fresh for as long as possible, and consider freezing it or preserving it to enjoy its goodness all year long. With its high water content, vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, watermelon is not only a delicious fruit but also a great source of hydration, immune support, weight loss aid, and digestive health.

So go ahead, incorporate more watermelon into your diet, and enjoy the sweet, juicy goodness of this Aussie summer treat!