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Summer is synonymous with sunshine, barbecues, and, of course, watermelon. This juicy, refreshing fruit is an essential part of the summer experience, offering a perfect, hydrating treat on a hot day. Whether you’re enjoying a slice poolside, preparing a fruit salad for a family gathering, or blending it into a cool summer smoothie, watermelon knows how to steal the show. But when it comes to selecting the perfect watermelon at the grocery store or farmers market, many of us might find ourselves at a loss. We often gravitate toward the prettiest, most unblemished specimens, assuming they will deliver the sweetest taste. However, as it turns out, this assumption may lead us astray.

According to chef and food expert My Nguyen, the key to finding the sweetest watermelon lies not in aesthetics, but in specific blemishes that may appear on the fruit. Here, we’ll explore the details of selecting a watermelon that not only looks less than perfect but also promises a flavor that’s truly delightful.

How to Select the Perfect Watermelon

1. Look for a Large Yellow Spot One of the first things to check when selecting a watermelon is the presence of a large yellow spot, typically found on one side of the fruit. This yellow patch is more than just a superficial blemish; it tells you an important secret about the watermelon’s ripeness. The yellow spot indicates where the watermelon rested on the ground while it ripened in the sun. The larger the yellow spot, the longer the watermelon has been in the sun, and the sweeter it is likely to be. According to Nguyen, a small white spot indicates that the watermelon was picked too early, which is not ideal for sweetness.
2. Check for Webbing Next, you’ll want to examine the watermelon for webbing. This term refers to the spider-like patterns that can often be seen on the rind. This webbing is actually a sign of bee pollination, and Nguyen explains that the more webbing present on the surface of the watermelon, the more likely it is to be sweet. This phenomenon occurs because well-pollinated watermelons have developed more sugars as they grew. Bees do a wonderful job of pollinating flowers, and the intricate webbing can be viewed as nature’s mark of a healthy, ripe fruit. If you’re curious about bee pollination and its effects on fruits, check out this resource from National Geographic.
3. Look for Dark Spots Finally, don’t be put off by dark spots that may appear on a watermelon. While they might not look particularly appetizing, they can be a significant indicator of ripeness. Nguyen notes that these dark spots occur when the watermelon’s natural sugars seep out of the flesh. The presence of more dark spots means that the watermelon is bursting with sweetness, making it an excellent choice for your summer picnic. Though these spots might seem unappealing at first glance, they represent the fruit’s delicious flavor potential. For further information on the science of watermelon ripening, you can explore insights from ScienceDirect.

The Sweet Benefits of Watermelon

Watermelon is not just a delicious and refreshing treat; it also offers a variety of health benefits. This fruit is low in calories and high in water content, making it a perfect choice for hydration on a hot day. Furthermore, watermelon is rich in vitamins A and C, which are vital for maintaining healthy skin and a robust immune system.

Hydration

Watermelon has a water content of over 90%, which makes it an excellent option for staying hydrated during the hot summer months. In fact, eating watermelon can contribute significantly to your daily fluid intake, helping you maintain optimal hydration levels without consuming sugary beverages.

Nutritional Properties

In addition to hydration, watermelon contains valuable nutrients. A serving of watermelon can provide you with vitamin A, which is essential for vision, skin health, and immune function. Vitamin C, another key nutrient found in watermelon, is known for its antioxidant properties and role in collagen synthesis.

Watermelon is also a source of lycopene, the antioxidant that gives the fruit its bright red color. Research has shown that lycopene may have various health benefits, including reducing inflammation and lowering the risk of certain diseases. For an in-depth look at the nutritional profiles of fruits, you can check out USDA FoodData Central.

Fun Ways to Enjoy Watermelon

Once you’ve selected the perfect watermelon, it’s time to enjoy it! There are numerous creative ways to use watermelon beyond simply slicing it and serving it fresh. Here are a few ideas:

1. Watermelon Salad Combine diced watermelon with feta cheese, mint leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze to create a delicious, refreshing salad. The combination of sweet watermelon and salty feta is simply heavenly.
2. Watermelon Juice or Smoothies Blend watermelon with a bit of lime juice for a refreshing juice. For a smoothie, combine watermelon with yogurt and ice for a creamy treat – particularly delightful on a warm day.
3. Frozen Watermelon Pops Puree watermelon and pour it into molds to create refreshing frozen treats. This is a fun and healthy option for kids and adults alike!
4. Grilled Watermelon For a unique side dish, grill watermelon slices during your summer barbecues. The grilling process caramelizes the sugars, enhancing the sweet flavor and creating a delightful smoky taste.
5. Watermelon Sorbet When summertime heating up, make your own watermelon sorbet by blending watermelon with a bit of sweetener and freezing it. It’s a delightful way to enjoy this fruit.
6. Watermelon Salsa Combine chopped watermelon, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice for a refreshing salsa that pairs wonderfully with grilled fish or chicken.

To find additional recipes and ideas for incorporating watermelon into your summer meals, visit Food Network.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the next time you find yourself at the store reaching for a watermelon, remember the wisdom shared by My Nguyen: the ugliest watermelons often yield the sweetest surprises. Look for a large yellow spot, the telltale webbing of pollination, and those dark spots that signal sweetness to ensure you pick a watermelon that will delight your taste buds.

Moreover, enjoy the many health benefits that watermelon offers and explore new, fun ways to savor this quintessential summer fruit. With these tips in hand, you can elevate your summer experience, ensuring that hot days are complemented by delicious watermelon. So embrace the charm of an “ugly” watermelon, knowing that it holds the promise of a sweet and juicy adventure in every bite!

Also, check out these past articles that highlight watermelon from Fill Your Plate!

• Watermelon Is More Than Just an Iconic Summer Treat
• 20 Ways to Use Watermelon
• Watermelon Is The Perfect Summertime Treat
• Watermelon Facts
• Wacky for Watermelon

By Heide Kennedy, Arizona Farm Bureau Communications Intern