What is watermelon?

Although watermelon is considered to be one of America’s favorite fruits, this sweet treat is actually a vegetable! Perhaps the most thirst quenching fruit (well, vegetable) of all, watermelon is approximately 92 percent water and 8 percent sugar.

Are there different kinds of watermelon?

There are over 50 different varieties of watermelon throughout the United States, but there are four general categories: Allsweet, Ice-Box, Seedless and Yellow Flesh watermelons. Allsweet watermelons are an oblong shape and range from 20-25 pounds, have dark green rinds (with or without stripes) and have red flesh. Allsweet watermelons are typically eaten raw, in wedges or diced. Ice-Box watermelons are round, weigh 5-15 pounds, have dark or light green rinds, and have red or yellow flesh. Ice-Box watermelons are typically served in specialty dishes, like watermelon salsa, or as a complement to chicken, fish or pork dishes. Seedless watermelons are oval or round, weigh anywhere from 10-25 pounds, have light green rinds with dark green stripes, and have red or yellow flesh. Seedless watermelons are perfect for sorbets and beverages, like margaritas or juice. Yellow flesh watermelons have an oblong shape, weigh 10-30 pounds, have light green rinds with mottled stripes, and yellow to bright orange flesh. Yellow flesh watermelons are often used as garnish on specialty dishes.

How can I make sure I buy the freshest watermelon?

Because of their natural sweetness, watermelons can be bought and eaten all year round. When shopping for watermelon, choose firm, symmetrical fruit that does not have cracks, bruises or soft spots. Avoid watermelon that is very hard, white or pale green in color, as this indicates immaturity. Ripe watermelon will have a healthy sheen, a dull rind and a mildly yellow underside. To be sure that the watermelon is ripe, the watermelon should be heavy for its size and you should hear a dull and hollow sound when you tap the side of the vegetable. The vegetable should also have a melon-like fragrance.

How should I store watermelon?

As long as watermelon remains uncut, it can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.  Once watermelon is cut, package the food in a closed plastic container or bag and place in the refrigerator.

How should I eat watermelon?

Always wash watermelon with soap and water before cutting. Most people eat watermelon raw and cut into wedges or diced, but watermelon can also be used to make salsa or as a garnish on specialty dishes.