Watermelon is summer’s fruit! It is sweet, juicy, and delicious on its own. But those summer watermelons are enormous! You may find yourself with a lot of leftover watermelon. If you’re wondering what to do with leftover watermelon, I have included 15 recipes from appetizers, summer salads, drinks, and desserts to help you get the most of this flavorful fruit!
Watermelon is versatile and bursting with sweetness, juiciness, and flavor. Whether in thirst-quenching drinks or delightful salads, there are countless ways to savor its goodness. These 10 irresistible recipes will ensure you enjoy every last bit of this juicy fruit. Dive into these irresistible creations and discover how to use every bit of your watermelon.
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Watermelon Appetizers and Salads
Watermelon is a versatile fruit that adds a refreshing and sweet note to appetizers and salads, making them perfect for summertime gatherings and picnics. Its crisp texture and juicy flavor pair beautifully with savory ingredients like mint, and balsamic vinegar, creating a delightful contrast of flavors.
Watermelon Fruit Salad
How fun and festive is this fruit salad? To make this recipe, you can easily cut your watermelon slices into stars using a cookie cutter! Then, combine these star-shaped pieces with strawberries, blueberries, and bananas to craft a fruit salad that is perfect for any patriotic holiday.
Watermelon Tuna
Introducing Watermelon Tuna: a culinary marvel where the fruit undergoes a savory marinade transforming it into a delicacy that mirrors the exquisite taste and texture of sashimi-style ahi tuna!
Mexican Watermelon Salad
Introducing Mexican Watermelon Salad: a blend of cubed watermelon, mango, papaya, pineapple, tangy lime juice, and a subtle kick of spice. This unexpected twist on the classic fruit salad recipe is a refreshing treat perfect for sweltering summer days.
Watermelon Gazpacho
A combination of fresh fruits and vegetables create a cool and refreshing summer soup. The perfect light dish for the hot summer days.
Watermelon Salsa
Sweet watermelon pairs well with spicy jalapeño and red onion with refreshing lime and cilantro for a delightful sweet and salty side dish.
Watermelon Drinks
Watermelon drinks are a delicious and refreshing way to stay hydrated and cool during the hot summer months. Watermelon’s natural sweetness and high water content make it a perfect base for a variety of beverages.
Watermelon Mocktail
Imagine that it’s a hot summer day, and you’re craving something refreshing. This watermelon, mint, and lime mocktail is here to save the day. Sweet watermelon cubes provide the base, while fresh mint leaves and zesty lime juice add flavor. A bonus? It’s a great choice when you’re trying to think of how to use up watermelon!
Strawberry Chia Watermelon Smoothie
This simple watermelon recipe combines strawberries with cubed melon in a blender to create a smooth puree that makes a delicious snack.
Watermelon Paloma
This Watermelon Paloma Cocktail is a mouthwatering concoction that combines freshly squeezed watermelon juice, tequila, and zesty citrus for a tangy-sweet flavor explosion.
Watermelon Lemonade
This sweetly tart watermelon lemonade uses only a handful of ingredients and makes a large pitcher for a backyard BBQ or picnic.
Watermelon Vodka Cocktail
These Watermelon Vodka Cocktails provide the ultimate summer refreshment. Bursting wtih sweetness, fruitiness, and unparalleled thirst-quenching goodness, they are ideal for basking in the sun on a hot summer day.
Watermelon Desserts
Watermelon desserts offer a delightful way to enjoy this iconic summer fruit in sweet and satisfying ways. From simple treats like watermelon sorbet and popsicles to more elaborate desserts like watermelon cakes and tarts.
Watermelon Popsicles
Indulge in the ultimate summer treat with these tasty popsicles! These frozen treats are packed with fruity flavors from watermelon, strawberries, and kiwi, and have the perfect amount of creaminess from coconut milk. Add in vegan chocolate chips, and you have the perfect summer treat!
Ninja Creami Watermelon Sherbet
As the star fruit of summer (watermelon, of course) takes center stage in this frozen treat, you’ll be on a journey of sweet and tangy flavors that will transport you to a tropical paradise with each spoonful. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up watermelon, ensuring that none of the juicy goodness goes to waste!
Watermelon Boba Pops
These Boba Popsicles are the ultimate summer delight! The refreshing taste of watermelon meets the creamy richness of coconut milk, all complemented by the delightful chewiness of tapioca pearls.
Watermelon Cake
Large slices of watermelon are filled with sliced strawberries, blueberries, and white peaches to create a large layer-like fruit cake that is a beautiful display.
Watermelon Jam
Pureed watermelon combines with lemon juice and sugar to create a simple and sweet jam that is refreshing when paired with your favorite bread and biscuits.
How to Store Leftover Watermelon
Whole Watermelon: A whole, uncut watermelon can be stored at room temperature for up to a week. However, if the room is particularly warm, it’s best to store it in the fridge. For longer storage, place the whole watermelon in the fridge. It can last for up to two weeks when refrigerated.
Cut Watermelon: After cutting, wrap the cut side in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator promptly. Cut watermelon should be consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Watermelon Juice: Store freshly squeezed watermelon juice in a sealed container in the refrigerator. It isbest consumed within 2-3 days for the freshest taste.
FAQS
If you’re not sure what to do with leftover watermelon, freeze it for later! Cut it into cubes, removing the rind. Place the watermelon pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the watermelon pieces for 1-2 hours, or until they are firm. Transfer the frozen watermelon pieces to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen watermelon can be stored in the freezer for up to 6-12 months.
To dehydrate watermelon, place the slices on a dehydrator tray and dry them at 135°F (57°C) for 8-12 hours, or until they are dry and leathery.
Cut the rind into strips or cubes. Boil the rind in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and spices, then pack it into sterilized jars and process in a water bath canner.
Watermelon can be canned as well, though it’s more commonly used for making preserves or jams rather than preserving the fruit itself. To can watermelon preserves, cook watermelon chunks with sugar and lemon juice, then pack the hot mixture into sterilized jars and process in a water bath canner.
Whether you’re enjoying it on its own or incorporating it into your favorite recipes, watermelon is sure to add a burst of flavor and color to any dish. So next time you pick up a watermelon, I hope these recipes inspire you with ideas of what to do with leftover watermelon.
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