It’s summer, which means it’s peak watermelon season—and nothing beats a crisp, juicy bite of a freshly sliced watermelon on a hot day. Whether you’re making a refreshing snack, heading to the pool, or simply looking to avoid the mess of cutting watermelon… I’ve got you covered! This step-by-step guide shows you exactly how to cut a watermelon into cubes, melon balls, or the latest trend: watermelon popsicles.
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Is watermelon healthy?
Totally! Watermelon is a delicious fresh fruit with many health benefits.
- Hydration: Living up to its name, watermelon is made up of over 90% water. This is a great food to enjoy during warmer months or after physical activity. It also provides essential electrolytes like potassium and magnesium, which help maintain fluid balance and support muscle function.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: A 2 cup serving of watermelon provides about 25% of your daily vitamin C needs, which helps support your immune system and collagen production. It also contains vitamins B5 and B6, which play key roles in nerve function, energy metabolism, and overall vitality.
- Powerful Antioxidants: Watermelon packs in 12.7 mg of lycopene per 2-cup serving—more than any other fresh fruit or vegetable. Lycopene is the antioxidant behind watermelon’s vibrant red color and has been linked to several health benefits, including reduced inflammation, less oxidative stress, and potential cancer-protective properties. Research shows it may also support heart health, blood sugar balance, and protect areas like your skin, bones, and nerves.
- Heart Health: Watermelon contains a natural compound called l-citrulline, which helps relax blood vessels and improve blood flow. This can support healthy blood pressure and heart function. Some research also suggests watermelon may help with metabolism and feeling full, making it great for overall health.
Prep tips before you cut watermelon
Before diving into slicing, here are a couple of tips to keep things clean and safe:
- Rinse the watermelon: Even though you’re not eating the rind, it’s important to rinse the outside under running water. This helps prevent any dirt or bacteria from transferring to the flesh when you cut through the rind.
- Use a stable cutting board and sharp knife: Place a damp towel or non-slip mat under your cutting board to keep it from sliding around. A large, sharp chef’s knife works best—it’s safer and easier than trying to muscle through with a small, dull knife.
How to cut a watermelon
1. Cut the ends off
Place the washed watermelon on a secure cutting board. Using a large, sharp chef’s knife, carefully slice off both ends of the melon.
2. Cut in half down the middle
Stand the watermelon on one of the flat ends. Cut straight down the middle to create two halves.
3. Cut into fourths
Take each half and cut it in half again, lengthwise, so you have four quarters.
4. Cut off rind
Place one quarter flesh-side down. Carefully slice between the rind and the red fruit to remove the outer rind.
How to cut watermelon into cubes
Once the rind is removed, slice the watermelon flesh lengthwise into even strips, then rotate and slice crosswise to form cubes. Great for snacking, meal prep, or tossing into smoothies.
How to cut watermelon into slices or “popsicles”
Leave the rind on for this one! With the flesh-side down, start by cutting the quarter section lengthwise into 1- to 2-inch wide strips. If you want typical triangle slices, stop here. If you want to take it a step further and make watermelon “popsicles”, rotate the sliced quarter and cut again perpendicular to your first cuts, creating rectangular pieces about 2×2 inches. Each piece will look like a mini popsicle, with the rind acting as a natural handle—perfect for snacking by the pool or serving at summer gatherings.
How to cut watermelon into melon balls
Use a melon baller to scoop round balls from the halved or quartered watermelon. This is a fun presentation for kids, fruit salad, or party platters. Don’t have a melon baller? A 1/2 tablespoon measuring spoon works as a great alternative!
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