How to Eat Watermelon Rind: Pickled, Fried, Preserved, Smoothie, Soup and Salad Recipes

Introduction

Watermelon is one of the most popular summer fruits. It’s great for eating fresh, making smoothies or adding to salads. But did you know that you can also eat the watermelon rind? That’s right, the green, white and pink rind that you usually discard can be transformed into delicious dishes. Keep reading to learn about all the different ways you can eat watermelon rind.

I. Pickled Watermelon Rind

Pickling is a great way to preserve food and add flavor. And it’s surprisingly easy to make pickled watermelon rind. This dish is sweet and tangy, and pairs well with savory meals. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins and minerals.

A. Benefits of Eating Pickled Watermelon Rind

Pickled watermelon rind has a host of health benefits. It contains vitamin C, which helps boost immunity and promote skin health. It also contains magnesium, which helps regulate blood pressure, and potassium, which helps maintain heart health. Plus, it’s low in calories and fat, making it a great snack for those watching their weight.

B. How to Make Pickled Watermelon Rind

Making pickled watermelon rind is easy. Here’s what you need:

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons salt
• 4 cups watermelon rind, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns

To make the pickles, first mix the sugar, vinegar, salt and water in a large pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Add the garlic, mustard seeds, coriander seeds and black peppercorns. Simmer for another 10 minutes. Add the cubes of watermelon rind and simmer for 20 minutes. Let the mixture cool, then transfer it to a jar or other airtight container. Store the pickles in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

II. Fried Watermelon Rind

Fried watermelon rind is a unique and delicious side dish. It’s sweet and savory, and makes a great accompaniment to any meal. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make.

A. Benefits of Eating Fried Watermelon Rind

Fried watermelon rind is high in fiber, which helps support digestion and keep you feeling full. It’s also a good source of vitamins A and C, which help boost immunity and promote healthy skin. Plus, it’s low in calories and fat, making it a great choice for those watching their weight.

B. How to Fry Watermelon Rind

To fry watermelon rind, you’ll need:

• 2 cups watermelon rind, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup vegetable oil

In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt and pepper. Dip the cubes of watermelon rind into the flour mixture, coating them evenly. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the coated watermelon rind cubes. Fry for about 2 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Remove the cubes from the pan and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb the excess oil. Serve warm.

III. Watermelon Rind Preserves

Watermelon rind preserves are a delicious way to enjoy the sweet flavor of watermelon year-round. They’re perfect for spreading on toast or adding to yogurt or oatmeal. Plus, they’re an excellent source of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.

A. Benefits of Eating Watermelon Rind Preserves

Watermelon rind preserves are a good source of vitamin C, which helps boost immunity and promote healthy skin. They’re also a good source of dietary fiber, which helps support digestion and keep you feeling full. Plus, they’re low in calories and fat, making them a great snack for those watching their weight.

B. How to Make Watermelon Rind Preserves

To make watermelon rind preserves, you’ll need:

• 4 cups watermelon rind, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Combine the watermelon rind cubes, sugar, vinegar and lemon juice in a large pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes. Add the cinnamon and nutmeg, and simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Let the mixture cool, then transfer it to a jar or other airtight container. Store the preserves in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

IV. Watermelon Rind Smoothie

Watermelon rind smoothies are a delicious and refreshing way to enjoy the health benefits of watermelon. They’re packed with vitamins and minerals, and are a great way to start your day.

A. Benefits of Drinking a Watermelon Rind Smoothie

Watermelon rind smoothies are a good source of vitamin C, which helps boost immunity and promote skin health. They’re also a good source of dietary fiber, which helps support digestion and keep you feeling full. Plus, they’re low in calories and fat, making them a great snack for those watching their weight.

B. How to Make a Watermelon Rind Smoothie

To make a watermelon rind smoothie, you’ll need:

• 1 cup cubed watermelon rind
• 1 cup milk
• 1 banana
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Combine the watermelon rind cubes, milk, banana, honey and vanilla extract in a blender. Blend until the mixture is smooth. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.

V. Watermelon Rind Soup

Watermelon rind soup is a unique and flavorful dish. It’s sweet and savory, and perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins and minerals.

A. Benefits of Eating Watermelon Rind Soup

Watermelon rind soup is a good source of vitamin C, which helps boost immunity and promote skin health. It’s also a good source of dietary fiber, which helps support digestion and keep you feeling full. Plus, it’s low in calories and fat, making it a great choice for those watching their weight.

B. How to Make Watermelon Rind Soup

To make watermelon rind soup, you’ll need:

• 2 cups cubed watermelon rind
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the ginger, watermelon rind cubes, vegetable broth, salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Let the soup cool slightly, then transfer it to a blender and blend until smooth. Serve warm.

VI. Watermelon Rind Salad

Watermelon rind salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish. It’s sweet and savory, and perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins and minerals.

A. Benefits of Eating Watermelon Rind Salad

Watermelon rind salad is a good source of vitamin C, which helps boost immunity and promote skin health. It’s also a good source of dietary fiber, which helps support digestion and keep you feeling full. Plus, it’s low in calories and fat, making it a great choice for those watching their weight.

B. How to Make a Watermelon Rind Salad

To make a watermelon rind salad, you’ll need:

• 2 cups cubed watermelon rind
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

In a large bowl, combine the watermelon rind cubes, red onion, cucumber and feta cheese. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, oregano, salt and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat. Serve immediately.

VII. Watermelon Rind Chips

Watermelon rind chips are a delicious and nutritious snack. They’re crunchy and flavorful, and perfect for munching on throughout the day. Plus, they’re packed with vitamins and minerals.

A. Benefits of Eating Watermelon Rind Chips

Watermelon rind chips are a good source of vitamin C, which helps boost immunity and promote skin health. They’re also a good source of dietary fiber, which helps support digestion and keep you feeling full. Plus, they’re low in calories and fat, making them a great snack for those watching their weight.

B. How to Make Watermelon Rind Chips

To make watermelon rind chips, you’ll need:

• 2 cups cubed watermelon rind
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine the watermelon rind cubes, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt and pepper. Spread the cubes out onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes, flipping once halfway through. Let the chips cool before serving.

Conclusion

Watermelon rind can be used in a variety of tasty dishes. From pickles to smoothies, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this nutritious fruit. So the next time you’re eating watermelon, don’t forget to save the rind and whip up something delicious.