It’s just not summer without watermelon, or at least not a summer I want to be a part of! To me, watermelon is summer. It’s crisp, refreshing, tasty and brimming with juicy deliciousness! And you can do so much with them! Simply cut and snack right then and there or chop it up and freeze for later. Make a salad with feta or scoop out the insides and use them in a smoothie. Even the rinds can be used – they’re my favorite part – but for those of you who usually chuck ‘em out, save them and pickle the rinds to serve on a cheese plate!
But, before you get all creative, choosing the right watermelon is key. Pick the wrong one, and you’re just setting yourself up for disappointment. I can’t imagine a watermelon-less summer! And we didn’t think you could either. So, here’s how you can pick the right watermelon to gorge on this summer!
5. Check for a field spot
The field spot is the large round yellow mark left on the side of the watermelon that was sitting on the field. It’s the spot that got the least amount of sun. This is natural, and a good sign! The darker the color, the longer it was on the vine ripening up and the more yellow-gold it appears, the juicier and sweeter. If it’s whiteish or doesn’t even have a spot, move on down the aisle!
4. “Bee” on the lookout for webbing
Keep your eyes peeled for the thick, brown web-like markings, usually located on either end of the watermelon. It has a similar texture and color to concrete, but couldn’t be farther from it! It’s a mark that develops when the bees pollinate the fruit in the early stages. The more webbing, the more pollination, the sweeter the fruit! Simple as that!
3. Male or female?
Watermelons come as one or the other. The male watermelons are generally taller and elongated, while the females are stubbier and wider. The former also tend to contain more water, and the latter are meatier, making them sweeter.
2. Size does matter
Some are too big, some are too small, but if you apply Goldilocks’ logic, medium-size is “juuuuuust right.” Go for average!
1. Check its tail
Yep, watermelons usually come with little tails! Awwww, how cute! The tail, or leftover vine, help indicate its ripeness. A green tail suggests that it was picked too soon, and may not taste as good as watermelons that have dried tails – a much better taste.
Ok, you’ve found your perfect watermelon, you are ready for summer. But now you have to cut it. Click below for a quick rundown of best practices.
