Summer is here. That means for about the past month, and until around the first of September, watermelons are available at produce stands and stores. In my home, we (and the dog) eat watermelon almost daily this time of year. It’s our favorite. With 4th of July is just around the corner, this is the perfect time to learn how to cut a watermelon.
Don’t Be Intimidated
Watermelons are big, heavy and thick-skinned. Don’t let that stop you from buying a whole one. That red, juicy, hydrating fruit under that striped green rind is worth it. The prepared product in the store sells by the pound. A container or partial melon costs as much or more than a whole watermelon. Also, you have no idea when it was cut up. You want the freshest watermelon you can get right? Learn how to cut a watermelon on your own in three easy steps.
Proper Tools are Needed
First, gather up your tools to tackle the task. I find the following items work best for me.
- A large, sharp, straight edged knife
- A large cutting board with a juice moat
- Large bowls to put your cut up watermelon in. I prefer chunks over slices
- A large bowl or something to put the rind in. I compost mine or toss mine or toss them out for the wildlife to feed on.
Now you’re ready to learn how to cut a watermelon fast and effortlessly in 3 easy steps.
Step 1. Get Some Stability
Start buy cutting off the stem end and the opposite end of the watermelon. It’s not safe having your watermelon roll around while you’re cutting it. Now that you’ve made a flat surface, stand the watermelon up on its end.
Step 2. Follow the Curves
Next, cut the rind off the watermelon. Cutting from top to bottom, follow the curve of the fruit cutting just below the rind. It’s easier to see where to cut once you take the first slice of rind off the melon. I usually go around the fruit entirely and then flip the fruit upside down and trim up anything I’ve missed.
Step 3. Cut watermelon into Desired Shape and Size and store
I cut up the watermelon into large chunks and put it into big bowls. Then I put the bowls into the fridge and it’s ready to go. I find that the larger chunks hold up better and can be cut smaller if needed just before eating it.
Additional Notes:
- I like to drain the bowls of any accumulated watermelon juice every day or so to keep the watermelon from sitting in its own juice. I find it keeps better this way
- The watermelon is usually good for up to a week in the fridge once I prep the melon
That’s how to cut a watermelon.
Once you do this a couple times it’ll will take under 10 minutes and you’ll be done. No more being intimidated. You’re all finished. Go to the store and stop buying the precut watermelon that is tempting you from the shelf.
