Not sure where to start when cutting a whole watermelon? Here’s a simple guide to quickly and easily cut a watermelon into wedges, sticks, and cubes for easy serving and snacking.
Watermelon 101
Watermelons can look intimidating because of their size, but they are actually easy to cut with a few straightforward steps. Below are quick methods to turn a whole watermelon into triangle wedges, sticks, or cubes in minutes.
Is Watermelon Healthy?
Watermelon is mostly water—about 92%—making it excellent for hydration. It also provides several nutrients, including:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin C
- Lycopene
- Antioxidants
- Amino acids
- Potassium
Types of Watermelon
Seeded Watermelon
Seeded varieties are round or oval and usually weigh between 15 and 45 pounds. They contain black seeds throughout the flesh.
Seedless Watermelon
Seedless watermelons have the same shape as seeded ones but are bred to contain small soft white seeds that are edible. They typically weigh around 15 pounds.
Miniature Watermelon
Miniature varieties, like Sugar Baby or Tiger Baby, are compact and usually weigh between 6 and 10 pounds, making them easier to handle and store.
How To Pick A Ripe Watermelon
- Choose a heavier fruit for its size—hefting several melons helps you compare density and ripeness.
- Look for a yellow “field spot” where the melon rested on the ground; a creamy yellow spot usually signals ripeness.
- Avoid melons with soft spots, deep dents, or inserted holes that indicate damage.
- Tap the rind; a deep, hollow sound typically indicates a ripe melon.
How To Cut A Watermelon
Watermelon Triangle Wedges
- Cut the watermelon in half, widthwise.
- Cut each half in half lengthwise to make quarters.
- Slice each quarter into wedges, as thick or thin as you prefer.
Watermelon Sticks
- Cut the watermelon in half, widthwise.
- Place one half cut-side down on the board. Using a sharp knife, score a grid across the flesh—make parallel cuts horizontally and vertically—to form long sticks.
- Lift the rind and slide a spatula underneath to release the sticks, or cut along the rind to separate them.
Watermelon Cubes
- Cut the watermelon in half, widthwise and place the half cut-side down.
- Score a grid across the flesh (horizontally and vertically) to create sticks.
- Pull the sticks out and cut them crosswise to form cubes, or slice the flesh from the rind and cube it on a cutting board.
How to Store Cut Watermelon
Store cut watermelon in airtight containers in the refrigerator. For larger pieces like halves or quarters, wrap the cut side tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Consume cut watermelon within a few days for the best texture and flavor.
How to Store a Whole Watermelon
If a whole watermelon was sold at room temperature, keep it at room temperature and use it within about a week. If it was sold chilled, refrigerate it when you bring it home.
Can You Freeze Watermelon?
Yes. Freeze cubed watermelon in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to an airtight freezer bag or container. Frozen watermelon keeps well for 3–4 months, but note that its texture changes after freezing, so it’s best used in smoothies, slushies, or blended treats rather than as a fresh snack.
When is Watermelon in Season?
Watermelon season typically runs from May through September, with the fruit often most abundant and affordable in summer months.
How Many Cups of Watermelon are in a Pound?
One pound of watermelon yields approximately 1.5 cups of cubed fruit.
Ways to Use Watermelon
A single watermelon yields a lot of fruit. Beyond eating it fresh, try these ideas:
- Watermelon salsa
- Frozen watermelon slushies
- Watermelon smoothies
- Fresh watermelon salads
- Fruit trays for parties
- Watermelon sorbet
What’s The Best Knife to Cut a Watermelon With
A large, sharp chef’s knife works well. A long serrated knife (like a bread knife) is also effective for cutting through the rind and flesh cleanly.
How to Cut a Watermelon (Quick Steps)
Triangle wedges: Cut the melon in half widthwise, then cut each half in half lengthwise and slice each quarter into wedges.
Sticks: Cut the melon in half widthwise, place a half cut-side down, score a grid across the flesh, then lift or slice out the sticks.
Cubes: Follow the sticks method, then cut the sticks crosswise to make cubes.
Enjoy your watermelon fresh, chilled, or blended into refreshing summer treats.