Sweet, juicy watermelons and summertime treats go hand-in-hand.  There is just something about this melon that screams summertime to me. So take advantage of the watermelon’s short peak season and use it in as many ways as possible.  Let your imagination run wild! Just about every part of this colorful, delicious fruit can be used–except maybe the seeds. There are savory bites and sweet treats, and so many ways to use its juice and even its green-striped rind can be transformed into something delicious.  

But first things first.  Where can you find the best of the best watermelons–and when you do find them, how can you tell which is the most ripe and flavorful? They all look the same, right?  First of all, buy local or as local as you can.  Now, this isn’t always the case and there are good melons to be found at the chain stores but first check out your local farmer’s markets and roadside stands for the freshest, ripest, juiciest, and most flavorable watermelons this season has to offer. 

How can you tell if a watermelon is ripe and ready to eat? When choosing a watermelon, look for these characteristics:

1. Sound.  This is the way I learned how to pick a melon. Gently tap the outside with your knuckles and a ripe melon will make a deeper sound while an overripe melon will sound hollow or flat.

2. Shape. Look for a full, well-shaped watermelon that is symmetrical, oval or round.  Pass on the ones with irregular shapes or have odd bumps or knots.

3. Weight.  If you find a watermelon that feels heavier than it looks, it is almost a sure sign that it has more water content and, therefore, is more juicy.  Do not buy a watermelon that is large and light.  In this case, the heavier the better.

4. Color.  The ripest watermelons have dull, dark skin.  If the skin is shiny, it could mean it isn’t ripe enough so pass it up in your search.  The melon’s ground spot could also let you in on its ripeness secret.  The striped melon’s spot should be a bright, buttery yellow color, and the light green melon’s spot should be almost yellow-green.  The deep green melon’s ground spot should be a deep yellow color while the light green melon’s spot should be lighter yellow.  A creamy-colored field spot typically means the melon was on the vine longer and should yield a melon full of flavor but a white spot means it was picked too early and isn’t quite ripe.

5. Firmness.  The exterior of the watermelon should be smooth but firm. Avoid picking up a melon that has soft spots, cuts, dents or cracks. 

6. Webbing: Also known as “sugar spots, “ a melon with larger webbing is a sure bet that it has been pollinated and is much sweeter than its webb-less counterparts.

It’s also important to know that, unlike a lot of other fruits, watermelon will not continue to ripen once it is picked from the vine, so it is important to select a ripe one to start with.  July is about peak for its growing season which begins in late May and continues until early September. 

One of my all-time favorite summer recipes is Watermelon Salsa.  To me, this is like combining all the flavors of summer into one big bowl.  Juicy, ripe watermelon paired with fresh tomatoes turn this classic into a curious twist.  Perfect with fresh tortilla chips and a wonderful addition to any summer potluck or taco bar.   Pair this festive salsa with one of my favorite summertime cocktails.  I have the best recipes for a Spicy Watermelon Margarita that is my little curious twist on a margarita classic recipe–the watermelon tastes like candy and there’s just a little kick to make it interesting.

Another refreshing cocktail using this fabulous fresh melon is my spin on a Kentucky classic.  The Frozen Watermelon Mint Julep. Yes, you heard it here first.  Mint Juleps are not just for Derby Day.  To me, they are one of the most refreshing cocktails out there and perfect for these steamy, sultry summer days–and nights.  There’s just something about that icy cold julep cup that makes this a big hit.  The sweet, juicy watermelon addition is just a bonus.  If you haven’t tried this recipe, do it today. 

For a bit of a change, use the sweetness of a good fresh watermelon in a savory dish.  Use watermelon bite-size chunks tossed with a light vinaigrette and slightly spicy arugula.  This Watermelon Salad pairs nicely with a grilled Ribeye or Filet.  And speaking of grilling, toss some thick watermelon slices on the grill,  hit them with a spoonful of our Bourbon Blueberry Jam and top with fresh whipped cream.  Now that’s something that will have your guests raving about for a while! 

The classic Watermelon and Feta Salad is also a wonderful side for your summer cookout.  Toss in some sliced almonds or walnuts and a balsamic glaze.  And don’t forget about the watermelon rind.  Let no part of this delicious summer treat go to waste.  Watermelon Rind Pickles are easy to make and tasty, too.

So don’t forget to pick up a fresh watermelon the next time you are at the Farmer’s Market and give these ideas a try.  Shop local and often.

Here’s to summer!

Cheers!