Watermelons are one of the quintessential fruits of summer. With their juicy and refreshing taste, they make for the perfect snack or addition to any summertime meal. However, slicing a watermelon can be a bit daunting, especially for those who have never done it before. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to cut a watermelon, as well as how to store and preserve it for longer.
How to Cut a Watermelon
Cutting a watermelon is not as difficult as it may seem.
However, there are a few tips and tricks that you can use to make the process easier and more efficient.
Step 1: Wash the watermelon thoroughly
Before cutting your watermelon, it’s important to wash it thoroughly.
This will remove any dirt, bacteria, or chemicals that may be on the surface of the fruit.
Simply rinse the watermelon under cold water and scrub it gently with a clean brush.
Step 2: Cut off the ends
Once the watermelon is washed, use a sharp knife to cut off both ends of the fruit.
This will create a flat surface on both ends, making it easier to cut the rest of the fruit.
Step 3: Cut the watermelon in half
Stand the watermelon upright and cut it in half, lengthwise, from top to bottom.
This will create two equal halves.
Step 4: Cut the watermelon into cubes, slices, or sticks
Once you have the two halves, you can proceed to cut them into cubes, slices, or sticks, depending on your preference.
How to Cut a Watermelon into Cubes
Cubed watermelon is a popular snack and addition to fruit salads.
To cut a watermelon into cubes, follow these steps:
Step 1: Cut the watermelon in half
Follow the steps mentioned above to cut the watermelon in half lengthwise.
Step 2: Cut the halves into quarters
Take each half and cut it into quarters.
Step 3: Remove the rind
Hold each quarter of the watermelon with the cut side down and use your knife to remove the rind by cutting it off in a downward motion.
Step 4: Cut the watermelon into cubes
Take each quarter and cut it into cubes of your desired size.
How to Cut a Watermelon into Slices
Watermelon slices are a classic summer treat.
To cut a watermelon into slices, follow these steps:
Step 1: Cut off the ends
Follow step 2 mentioned above to cut off both ends of the watermelon.
Step 2: Cut the watermelon in half
Cut the watermelon in half, crosswise, to create two equal halves.
Step 3: Cut the watermelon into slices
Place each half cut-side down and slice it into your desired thickness.
You can choose to make them as thick or thin as you prefer.
How to Cut a Watermelon into Sticks
Watermelon sticks are a fun and easy way to enjoy the fruit.
To cut a watermelon into sticks, follow these steps:
Step 1: Cut the watermelon in half
Follow step 1 mentioned above to cut the watermelon in half, lengthwise.
Step 2: Cut the halves into wedges
Take each half and cut it into wedges, like you would a pizza.
Step 3: Cut the wedges into sticks
Take each wedge and cut it into sticks of your desired thickness.
How Long Does a Watermelon Last?
Once cut, a watermelon will only last for a few days in the fridge.
An uncut watermelon, however, can last for up to 2 weeks at room temperature.
It’s important to note that this can vary depending on the ripeness of the fruit and the temperature of your home.
Generally, the cooler the temperature, the longer the watermelon will last.
How to Make Watermelon Last Longer
If you want to make your watermelon last longer, there are a few things you can do.
First, store your uncut watermelon in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or basement.
You can also wrap it in a towel or newspaper to help absorb excess moisture.
Once cut, store your watermelon in an airtight container in the fridge.
This will help keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out.
If you don’t have an airtight container, you can also cover the cut side of the watermelon with plastic wrap.
How to Store Watermelon
As mentioned above, an uncut watermelon can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to 2 weeks.
Once cut, it’s important to store it in the fridge to prevent it from spoiling.
When storing a watermelon in the fridge, make sure to keep it away from other fruits and vegetables, as it can emit ethylene gas, which can cause them to spoil faster.
It’s also a good idea to chop your watermelon into smaller pieces, as this will make it easier to store and will help it last longer.
How to Know if Watermelon is Ripe
Knowing when a watermelon is ripe is key to getting the best flavor and texture.
Here are a few things to look for when choosing a ripe watermelon:
- Look for a creamy yellow spot: This is where the watermelon sat on the ground and should be a creamy yellow color when ripe.
- Tap it: Ripe watermelons will sound hollow when tapped.
- Look for a uniform shape: A ripe watermelon should be uniform in shape, with no bulges or irregularities.
- Check the skin: A ripe watermelon should have a smooth, uniform skin with no soft spots or bruises.
Can You Freeze Watermelon Chunks?
Yes, you can freeze watermelon chunks.
Frozen watermelon is a great addition to smoothies or as a refreshing summer snack.
To freeze watermelon, simply cut it into small pieces and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Once frozen, transfer the watermelon to a freezer-safe container and store it in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Is it Bad to Eat Watermelon at Night?
There is no evidence to suggest that eating watermelon at night is bad for you.
In fact, watermelon is a healthy and low-calorie snack that can help you stay hydrated.
However, if you’re sensitive to acid reflux or heartburn, it’s best to avoid eating watermelon before bed.
How to Know if a Watermelon is Bad
If you’re unsure if a watermelon is still good to eat, there are a few things you can look for.
Here are some signs that a watermelon may be bad:
- Soft spots: If the watermelon has any soft spots or bruises, it’s likely gone bad.
- Bad odor: If the watermelon has a sour or rotten smell, it’s no longer good to eat.
- Mold: If you see any mold on the skin or flesh of the watermelon, it’s best to throw it away.
- Watery texture: A watermelon that has gone bad may have a mushy or watery texture.
Conclusion
Slicing into a watermelon doesn’t have to be a daunting task.
By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you’ll be able to cut a watermelon into cubes, slices, or sticks with ease.
Remember to store your watermelon properly to help it last longer and look for signs that it may be going bad.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy the refreshing taste of watermelon all summer long.
Whether you’re snacking on it by the pool, bringing it to a picnic, or using it in a recipe, watermelon is a delicious and healthy fruit that’s sure to please.
Leave a Reply