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Learn how to cut a watermelon quickly and easily! Learn how to make the most of this summer fruit and cut it into cubes, wedges, sticks and balls for easy serving. And learn my tips for picking the best watermelon.
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Table of Contents
- How to pick the best watermelon
- Tips for preparing your watermelon and cutting station
- Cutting Techniques: Step-by-Step Guide
- Decorative Watermelon Cutting
- Tips for Cutting a Watermelon
- Benefits of eating watermelon
- How to store watermelon
- Frequently Asked Questions
- More kitchen tips
- How To Cut a Watermelon (4 ways) Recipe
One of my favorite things about summer is the abundance of watermelon! They are great to add to fresh fruit salads and desserts, use in juices or simply enjoy them as a refreshing snack. I love to serve them in this Watermelon Feta Salad!
Pre-cut watermelon at the grocery stores is expensive and not as fresh. Use these methods to quickly and easily portion and serve up a whole watermelon, whether you are making a quick snack for your self or serving it up to guests. Below I will show you with my step-by-step photos how to cut watermelon easily.
But before we go over the cutting techniques, I am going to share my best tips for picking a delicious and juicy watermelon.
How to pick the best watermelon
Not all watermelons are the same. Here are my top tips to select the sweetest and juiciest watermelons:
- The watermelon should feel heavy for its size.
- There should be a brown webbing on its rind.
- It should have a deep green color.
- Pick one with a creamy yellow patch, this is what is called a “field spot” which means that the watermelon was ripened on the vine and it’s sweeter.
- A ripe watermelon should make a deep hollow sound when you tap or knock on its rind. Under and over ripe melons will sound dull when you tap them.
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Pin ItTips for preparing your watermelon and cutting station
- Wash the watermelon thoroughly under cool, running water to remove any dirt or bacteria from the surface.
- Use a large, sharp knife for clean, precise cuts. You need a knife with a blade of at least 8 inches in length. You can also use a watermelon slicer or a watermelon cutter to help you slice through the rind.
- A sturdy cutting board to prevent slipping. You can also place a moist paper towel under the cutting board to prevent it from moving.
- Have a clean cloth or paper towels handy to wipe up any watermelon juice spills.
- Prepare a bowl or platter for the cut watermelon.
Cutting Techniques: Step-by-Step Guide
Mastering the art of cutting a watermelon begins with safety and technique. First, cut off a thin slice from one end of the watermelon. This creates a stable, flat surface, making the melon easier to handle. Next, stand the watermelon upright on the flat end. Now, you’re ready to make your first major cut down the middle.
How to Cut Watermelon into Cubes
Watermelon cubes are perfect for snacking or adding to salads.
- Cut your watermelon in half lengthwise.
- Then, cut each half in half to make 4 quarters.
- Make 2 cuts horizontally on each side of each quarter.
- Then, make 1” slices from one side of the melon to the other side.
- Cut along the rind and cubes will fall out of the rind easily.
How to Cut Watermelon into Wedges
Watermelon wedges are ideal for a casual, mess-free bite. This is my favorite way to cut a melon. This method is great for picnics and parties, where guests can grab a piece and enjoy without fuss.
- Cut your watermelon in half lengthwise.
- Then, cut each watermelon half into quarters.
- Cut along the rind
- Take each quarter and slice it into 1-inch thick wedges.
How to Cut Watermelon into Sticks
Watermelon sticks are fun and easy to eat, especially for kids. These are perfect for dipping into yogurt or fruit sauces. My kids love these!
- Cut your watermelon in half lengthwise and lay each half cut side down.
- Slice vertically into 1-inch thick slabs.
- Rotate and cut perpendicular to form a grid pattern.
- Pull watermelon sticks and serve.
How to Scoop Watermelon Balls
Watermelon balls add a touch of elegance to fruit salads or desserts. This method can be used on any size melon, and the balls can be stored or served immediately.
- Cut watermelon in half.
- Using a melon baller (or a small cookie scoop), scoop out small, round pieces from the flesh. Simply press the baller into the watermelon and twist.
Decorative Watermelon Cutting
For special occasions, get creative with decorative cuts. Carving a watermelon into a basket or intricate shapes can be a stunning centerpiece. Start by sketching your design on the rind with a marker. Use a small paring knife to carefully carve out your design. Practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if it takes a few tries to get it just right.
When you cut the watermelon in 1-inch slices before you cut them into sticks, you can lay them flat on the cutting board and use cookie cutters to stamp out different shapes. For example stars would be perfect for a Fourth of July celebration and hearts for any special occasion.
TIPS FROM NELI’S KITCHEN
Tips for Cutting a Watermelon
- Always use a sharp knife to make clean cuts and reduce juice spillage.
- Cut the watermelon on a large cutting board and place a wet paper towel under the board to prevent slipping.
- If you’re cutting a large watermelon, consider doing it in stages to keep pieces manageable.
Benefits of eating watermelon
Watermelons are low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals. They are a great source of vitamins A and C and have a good amount of fiber. Because of their high water content, they are a great tasty way to hydrate in hot weather. You can read more about the goodness of watermelon here.
How to store watermelon
Whole, uncut watermelons can be stored unrefrigerated for up to two weeks and you can place them in a cool place to extend their life.
Refrigerator
Once cut, wrap the watermelon pieces with the rind in a plastic wrap and store in the fridge. Similarly, place any small pieces in an airtight container and refrigerate them immediately. Cut watermelon is best consumed within three to five days.
Freezer
For longer storage, I usually freeze the watermelon pieces. Spread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. You can use the watermelon from frozen or thaw in the fridge. While the texture will change, frozen watermelon works wonderfully in smoothies or chilled drinks, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A large, sharp chef’s knife or serrated knife works best for clean, effortless cuts.
Leftover watermelon can be blended into smoothies, turned into popsicles, or added to salads. Get creative and experiment with different recipes.
Watermelons are available all year round, but their peak is between May and September. Watermelons that are in the stores out of this time tend to be shipped from Mexico and Central America.
Yes, watermelon rind can be pickled, used in stir-fries, or added to smoothies for an extra nutritional boost.
More kitchen tips
How To Cut a Watermelon (4 ways)
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Ingredients
- 1 large watermelon
Instructions
- Wash and dry the watermelon.
Cut into cubes
- Cut your watermelon in half lengthwise.
- Then, cut each half in half to make 4 quarters.
- Make 2 cuts horizontally on each side of each quarter.
- Then, make 1” slices from one side of the melon to the other side.
- Cut along the rind and cubes will fall out of the rind easily.
Cut into wedges
- Cut your watermelon in half lengthwise.
- Then, cut each half in half to make 4 quarters.
- Make 1” slices from one side of the melon to the other side.
Cut into sticks
- Cut your watermelon in half lengthwise.
- Make vertical slices down the length of the melon with the rind on (at 1 to 1½ inch intervals)
- Cut crosswise down the width of the melon to form a grid (1 to 1.5” intervals)
- Pull watermelon sticks and serve.
Cut into balls
- Using a melon ball, scoop out watermelon balls from each melon half. You can also make a watermelon basket with melon balls