Watermelon is one of the most seasonal fruits in the produce aisle. You can find it outside summer, but local peak-season watermelon has better texture, aroma, and sweetness.
The challenge is picking one before you can see inside it.
Varieties Worth Knowing
Seedless watermelon is the most common market type. It often has small white seed traces but no mature black seeds.
Seeded watermelon is traditional and can have excellent flavor, though it takes more patience to eat.
Sugar Baby is a small, round melon with dark rind and sweet red flesh. It is useful for smaller households.
Yellow watermelon has yellow flesh and a sweet, mild flavor. Use it like red watermelon.
When Watermelon Is In Season
Watermelon peaks in summer, generally from June through September in many parts of the US.
Local timing depends on heat. Watermelon needs warm days to develop good sweetness.
How To Pick Watermelon
Look for a melon that feels heavy for its size. The rind should look more dull than shiny.
Check the field spot, the pale area where the melon rested on the ground. A creamy yellow spot is usually better than a white or greenish one.
Avoid melons with soft spots, cracks, or leaking areas.
How To Store Watermelon
Whole watermelon can sit at room temperature briefly, but refrigerate it if you need to hold it longer or if your kitchen is warm.
Once cut, refrigerate watermelon in a covered container and use within 3 to 4 days.
How To Use Watermelon
Fresh slices: The simplest use is still the best when the melon is excellent.
Salads: Watermelon works with cucumber, feta, mint, basil, lime, and chili.
Drinks: Blend and strain for agua fresca or freeze cubes for summer drinks.
Grilled: Thick slices can be grilled briefly for a smoky-sweet side.
Pickled rind: The rind can be pickled if you want to reduce waste.
Find fresh watermelon from local farms near you in peak summer, when heavy ripe melons are worth making room for.
Flavor Pairings
- Mint - Fresh and cooling.
- Feta - Salty contrast.
- Lime - Brightens sweetness.
- Cucumber - Crisp and hydrating.
- Chili - Adds heat and contrast.