7 Easy Steps to Cut a Watermelon into Perfect Cubes Every Time

Credit: ShutterStock

Watermelon is a beloved summer fruit that’s perfect for cooling off on hot days. However, cutting this large, round fruit into neat cubes can be a challenge for many. Learning how to cut a watermelon into cubes efficiently not only saves time but also makes serving and eating this refreshing treat much easier. With the right technique, anyone can master the art of cubing watermelon like a pro.

This guide will walk you through the best way to cut a watermelon into cubes, from choosing the right melon to storing the finished product. You’ll learn about the essential tools needed, including a sharp knife, and the step-by-step process to cube a watermelon quickly and safely. Whether you’re preparing a fruit salad or want an easy way to cut up a watermelon for snacking, these tips will help you create perfect watermelon cubes every time.

How to Cut a Watermelon into Cubes: Selecting the Perfect Watermelon

Choosing the right watermelon is crucial for enjoying this summer fruit at its best. By following a few simple steps, anyone can select a ripe and juicy watermelon with confidence.

Also Read: How to find lost AirPods that are offline and dead

Look for a Yellow Field Spot

One of the most reliable indicators of a ripe watermelon is the field spot. This is the area where the melon rested on the ground while growing. A ripe watermelon will have a creamy yellow or dark yellow field spot. The darker the yellow, the sweeter and more flavorful the melon is likely to be. If the spot is pale green or white, it suggests the watermelon was picked too soon and may not be as sweet.

Check the Weight and Shape

A ripe watermelon should feel heavy for its size. This is because watermelons are 93% water, and a heavier melon indicates higher water content, which translates to juiciness. When selecting a watermelon, pick it up and compare its weight to others of similar size. The heavier one is usually the better choice.

The shape of the watermelon is also important. Look for a melon that has a uniform shape, either oval or round. It should have a smooth surface with a dull sheen and well-rounded ends. Avoid melons with irregular bumps, bruises, cuts, or dents, as these may indicate poor quality or damage.

Listen for a Hollow Sound

An interesting method to determine ripeness is the sound test. Hold the watermelon close to your ear and give it a firm tap with your knuckles or palm. A ripe watermelon will produce a deep, hollow sound, often described as similar to a tenor or a bongo drum. If the sound is sharp or metallic, the melon may be underripe. A dull thud could indicate an overripe melon.

By combining these methods – checking the field spot, assessing weight and shape, and listening for the right sound – shoppers can increase their chances of selecting a perfectly ripe watermelon. Remember, practice makes perfect, and with time, identifying the best watermelons will become second nature.

 Essential Tools for Cutting Watermelon

To cube a watermelon efficiently, one needs the right tools. These essential items make the process easier, safer, and more enjoyable.

Sharp Chef’s Knife

While a chef’s knife is useful for many kitchen tasks, a serrated knife is the best tool for cutting watermelon. Its saw-like blade allows one to cut through the tough, green rind with ease. A 10-inch serrated knife is ideal, as its long blade and pointy teeth grip the thick, slippery rind effectively. This prevents the watermelon from slipping around during cutting, making the process both easier and safer. The serrated edge enables one to use the knife like a saw, carving through the tough exterior without applying excessive pressure.

Large Cutting Board

A substantial cutting board is crucial when working with watermelon. It provides a stable surface and ample space for maneuvering this large fruit. Wooden cutting boards, particularly those made from maple or bamboo, are excellent choices. They offer durability and are gentle on knife edges. Some boards feature helpful design elements such as juice grooves to catch excess liquid and prevent countertop messes. For those concerned about sustainability, there are eco-friendly options made from recycled materials that still offer excellent performance.

Storage Container

After cubing the watermelon, proper storage is essential to maintain freshness. An airtight container is the best option for storing cut watermelon in the refrigerator. This keeps the fruit moist and prevents it from absorbing odors from other foods. For short-term storage, plastic wrap can be used to cover the cut end of the melon. This method helps preserve the fruit for up to a week. However, for optimal flavor and texture, it’s best to consume cut watermelon within three to four days. If longer storage is needed, freezing is an option. Cut the melon into pieces, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for storage up to six months.

 Step-by-Step Guide to Cubing Watermelon

Wash and Halve the Watermelon

To begin, one should thoroughly wash the watermelon in the sink with soapy water and rinse it well. After washing, they should dry the melon with a kitchen towel. Next, using a sharp chef’s knife, they need to carefully slice the watermelon in half crosswise. This cut should be made across the fattest part of the watermelon, resulting in two pieces with circular cut sides.

Remove the Rind

With the watermelon halved, the next step is to remove the rind. One should place one half cut-side down on a cutting board. Starting at the top, they should hold the knife at an angle and cut downwards towards the cutting board, removing a strip of rind. It’s important to cut deep enough to remove all the white part, even if some red flesh is lost in the process. They should continue rotating the melon and repeating this process until all the rind has been removed.

Slice into Strips

Once the rind is removed, the watermelon should be cut into manageable pieces. One method is to cut the peeled watermelon into thick slabs vertically, creating rectangular slices about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. These slices can then be laid flat on the cutting board.

Cut into Cubes

The final step is to transform these slices into cubes. With the slices laid flat, one should cut them into strips of the desired width. Then, they should cut across these strips to create cubes. For uniform cubes, it’s helpful to maintain consistent spacing between cuts. This process should be repeated with the remaining watermelon pieces until all the flesh has been cubed.

By following these steps, anyone can efficiently cube a watermelon, creating perfect pieces for fruit salads, snacks, or any other culinary use. This method minimizes mess and maximizes the amount of usable fruit, ensuring a refreshing and enjoyable watermelon experience.

 Storing and Serving Cubed Watermelon

Refrigeration Tips

To keep cubed watermelon fresh, it’s best to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This method preserves the fruit’s moisture and prevents it from absorbing odors from other foods. For optimal flavor and texture, one should consume refrigerated watermelon within three to four days of cutting. To extend its shelf life, one can wrap the cut end of the melon with plastic wrap before refrigerating, which helps maintain freshness for up to a week.

To prevent the fruit from breaking down quickly, it’s advisable to place a draining grate or paper towel in the storage container. This absorbs excess juice that seeps out of the fruit, keeping the cubes crisp and flavorful for longer.

Freezing Methods

Freezing is an excellent option for long-term storage of cubed watermelon. Here’s how to freeze watermelon effectively:

1. Remove the rind and seeds before freezing.
2. Cut the watermelon into evenly sized cubes or use a melon baller for uniform shapes.
3. Arrange the pieces in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Freeze for several hours until solid.
5. Transfer the frozen cubes to freezer bags or airtight containers.

Frozen watermelon can be stored for up to eight months. When thawing, it’s important to note that the texture will be softer than fresh watermelon. For the best results, partially thaw the cubes if planning to snack on them, or use them directly from the freezer in smoothies or as fruity ice cubes in drinks.

Creative Serving Ideas

Cubed watermelon offers versatile options for serving. Here are some creative ideas:

1. Watermelon Salad: Combine cubed watermelon with feta cheese, fresh mint, and a drizzle of olive oil for a refreshing summer dish.
2. Grilled Watermelon: Brush thick slices with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and grill for a unique twist.
3. Watermelon Skewers: Alternate watermelon cubes with mozzarella balls and basil leaves, drizzled with balsamic glaze.
4. Sparkling Watermelon: Soak watermelon cubes in sparkling water for a fizzy treat.
5. Frozen Treats: Use frozen watermelon cubes to make smoothies, sorbets, or blend them into a quick granita.

These serving suggestions showcase the versatility of cubed watermelon, making it a perfect addition to summer gatherings or as a refreshing snack.

FAQs

What’s the best way to choose a ripe watermelon?

Look for a yellow field spot, check the weight, shape, and listen for a hollow sound.

Can I use a regular kitchen knife instead of a serrated knife?

A serrated knife is ideal for cutting watermelon due to its ability to handle the tough rind. A regular knife may struggle with the rind and be less safe.

How do I prevent watermelon cubes from becoming mushy in the fridge?

Store cubed watermelon in an airtight container and consider placing a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture.

What’s the best way to freeze watermelon cubes?

Arrange cubed watermelon in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags or containers.

How long can cut watermelon be stored in the refrigerator?

Cut watermelon should be consumed within three to four days for the best flavor and texture.

How can I tell if a watermelon is overripe?

An overripe watermelon may produce a dull sound when tapped and may have a mushy texture or overly dark spots on the rind.

Can I use the watermelon rind in recipes?

Yes, watermelon rind can be pickled or used in certain recipes like stir-fries. However, it should be thoroughly cleaned and peeled before use.

Is there a specific type of cutting board to use for watermelon?

A large, sturdy cutting board is best. Wooden boards like maple or bamboo are good choices, and some have juice grooves to catch excess liquid.

How do I prevent watermelon cubes from sticking together when frozen?

Freeze watermelon cubes in a single layer before transferring them to a container. This prevents them from sticking together.

What are some creative ways to serve cubed watermelon?

Try watermelon salad, grilled watermelon, watermelon skewers, sparkling watermelon, or use frozen cubes in smoothies.