The Best of Watermelon: Everything You Need to Know About Summer’s Juiciest Fruit

Watermelon is one of the healthiest fruits of summer, and one of the most delicious. In honor of National Watermelon Day on August 3, we’ve collected all the best watermelon recipes, tips, and tricks in one place.

From picking the perfect watermelon to using it in creative ways—including saving the scraps—these tips will take you through the rest of summer.

Watermelon Health Benefits

Since watermelon is 92 percent water (no, it’s not just a clever name), it’s incredibly hydrating, but it’s also high in potassium, vitamin C, and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that contributes to its bright red color. Since it’s low in calories too, go ahead and eat as much as you want.

How to Pick the Best Watermelon

Enjoying watermelon starts at the store (or farm stand). Here are three tricks to pick the perfect watermelon every time.

How to Cut a Watermelon

Watermelons are unwieldy, but when you cut them like this, it’s a lot easier. We like slices best for eating out of hand and grilling, but a couple extra cuts is all it takes for cubes. Don’t forget to wash the watermelon first!

Why You Should Grill Your Watermelon

We like grilling pretty much everything, and watermelon is high up on the list. It caramelizes and picks up a little smoky tang that’s delicious alone or with a variety of sweet and savory toppings. These are some of our favorite grilled watermelon recipes.

15 Watermelon Recipes You Need to Try This Summer

We can’t resist raw watermelon either—but we like to use that in salads, salsa, sorbet, and even chilled soup. See some of the best watermelon recipes for summer.

11 Watermelon Drinks to Keep You Hydrated

True to its name, watermelon is one of the most hydrating fruits you can eat…or drink. Whether you blend it up into a watermelon margarita, another creative cocktail, or a non-alcoholic summer sipper, these watermelon drink recipes are all ultra-refreshing.

How to Make a Bland Watermelon Taste Better

If you picked a bad watermelon from the bunch, it’s not necessarily destined for the compost! Try these tricks to make bad watermelon taste better.

What to Do with Watermelon Rinds

Also not compost fodder: watermelon rinds. While pickling them is a classic move, there are many other delicious watermelon rind recipes to try.

Related Video: This Zero-Waste Watermelon Gazpacho Makes the Most of Summer Produce

Header image courtesy of Debbie Wolfe