Recipes for the Whole Watermelon
Jun 26, 2017, Updated Jun 03, 2021
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No summer meal is complete without watermelon. Watermelon brings a fresh, sweet flavor to your summer table.
But did you know that 100 percent of a watermelon is usable? Yes, even the rind! So think beyond the inner watermelon flesh and try some watermelon juice and rind this summer!
July is National Watermelon Month. To celebrate this delicious summer fruit, Watermelon Board is challenging watermelon lovers to create recipes using the whole watermelon. Submit your recipe (using any part of the watermelon) to be entered to win up to $500! Enter online at www.watermelon.org/recipecontest.
Whether you’re eco-, budget-, or health-conscious (or just taste-conscious!), challenge yourself to use the whole watermelon!
Let’s talk about different ways you can use watermelon flesh, juice, and rind:
Watermelon Flesh
From deep reds and pinks to oranges, yellows, and white, watermelon flesh adds a sunset of hues and sweet flavors to dishes year-round. Dice watermelon flesh into salads or salsas, skewer and grill it as kebobs, or simply enjoy a big, juicy slice!
Salsa is a great summer party dish. Why not add some sweet watermelon to this fresh snack? Jicama, carrots, and cabbage bring the crunch to this Watermelon Crunch Salsa from Watermelon Board.
If you’ve never tried grilled watermelon, add it to your summer bucket list with this Grilled Watermelon Pizza from Kroger. The watermelon takes on a smoky flavor thanks to the grill. The bacon and feta cheese send this “pizza” over the top!
Watermelon Juice
At 92 percent water, watermelon is an excellent choice for staying hydrated. You can blend watermelon into smoothies, mix watermelon juice into your favorite cocktail, or enjoy pure watermelon juice straight up!
Stay cool this summer with this Agua Fresca from Watermelon Board. Watermelon juice, sugar, and lime juice combine to make a naturally sweet and non-alcoholic drink. And it’s so easy to make!
For an alcoholic alternative, try this Watermelon Clementine Cocktail from Dandy Fresh. Clementine juice adds a kick to the sweet watermelon juice. It’s the perfect beverage to enjoy on your deck during those warm summer nights.
Watermelon Rind
The rind is the most overlooked part of the watermelon. However, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find how delicious and fun eating the rind can be. Slice it into a crunchy stir fry, ferment it for sweet-salty pickles, or use it as a vessel or centerpiece for salsas or salads.
To ease your way into eating watermelon rind, go for this Watermelon Rind Stir Fry from Watermelon Board. The rind actually becomes soft and takes on the flavors of the sauce. Serve this over rice or noodles for a fulfilling meal.
Have you ever eaten kimchi? It’s a traditional Korean side dish made from fermented cabbage. This Watermelon Rind Kimchi from Watermelon Board replaces the cabbage with watermelon rind. Use this kimchi as a condiment with your favorite burger, add it to a grilled cheese sandwich, or use it to top a taco or a hot dog.
Whichever way you cut it, watermelon is a wonderful addition to your summer table!
