How To Store Cut Watermelon So It Stays Fresh
Keep your watermelon sweet and fresh with these easy tips.
If you've cut into a large watermelon, you know that it can yield a mountain of fruit, leaving you to figure out the best way to store it all.
Once it's been sliced, proper storage is key to keep your watermelon fresh, crisp, and safe to eat. In this guide, we'll cover how to know when a watermelon is ripe and ready to cut, the best way to store whole and cut watermelon, and the signs to look out for to know if it's gone bad.
How To Choose A Ripe Watermelon
If picking a ripe watermelon seems more like a stroke of luck than anything else, these tips will help you choose a sweet, ripe melon every time:
- Color: The watermelon should have a deep, consistent color, save for the field spot. A field spot is the section where the watermelon rested on the ground. It should be creamy yellow, not white or greenish in color.
- Weight: A ripe watermelon should feel heavy for its size.
- Shape: It should have a uniform shape and be free of blemishes, cracks, and soft spots.
- Sound: Give the melon a knock. It should sound hollow, not dull.
How To Store A Whole Watermelon
If you plan to eat your ripe watermelon within a few days, store it on the countertop away from direct sunlight. For longer storage, move it to the refrigerator (if you have the space) to extend its life. Note that chilled watermelon may lose some of its sweetness and crisp texture over time.
How To Cut A Whole Watermelon
If you're ready to cut in but aren't sure of the best method, here's the best way to cut a whole watermelon:
- Wash the melon: Rinse the melon to remove any dirt, and dry it with a kitchen or paper towel.
- Trim off the ends: Use a sharp knife to slice off the ends of the melon, creating a flat surface to stabilize it as you trim the sides.
- Cut off the rind: Use your knife to trim down the sides of the melon to remove the rind (skip this step if preparing watermelon slices with the rind on).
- Slice in half: Use a large knife to cut through the melon from end to end.
- Prepare: Slice, cube, or ball as desired. To create cubes, slice into planks, then sticks, then cubes.
The Best Way To Store Cut Watermelon
Once a melon is cut, it should always be stored in the refrigerator. To keep the melon as fresh as possible, transfer large or small pieces to an airtight container or zip-top bag, squeezing out excess air. Store in the refrigerator for up to five days, but try to enjoy as soon as possible for the freshest flavor and texture.
Can I Freeze Leftover Watermelon?
While leftover watermelon can be frozen to extend its life, it's best to use it for smoothies, or other types of blended drinks or dishes, since the texture will soften and change after thawing. To freeze, place pieces onto a lined baking sheet or plate and freeze until firm to keep them from sticking together. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container and freeze for up to three months.
Signs of Spoilage
While cut watermelon can last up to five days in the refrigerator, you may start to notice common signs of spoilage toward the end of that storage time. Here are some key signs to look out for:
- A slimy or overly mushy texture: A slippery or sticky surface means it's no longer safe to consume.
- Off or sour smell: Watermelon should smell sweet and mild. Any sourness of musty odor is a red flag.
- Discoloration: If the color has changed or darkened, it may be past its prime.
- Mold: Discard immediately if you notice any spots of mold.
