What To Do With Leftover Watermelon (15 Ideas!)

Watermelon, the ultimate refreshing summer fruit, can leave us with a lot of leftovers. Don’t let them go to waste! Learn the 15 Best Ways To Use Leftover Watermelon this summer.

Meet the superstar of summer fruits – the vibrant and refreshing watermelon! This large green fruit has a pink center that is made up of 90% of water with a sweet melon taste that makes it perfect for warmer weather months. Watermelons are also a powerhouse of nutrition, offering vitamins, antioxidants, and, of course, water, making them a super hydrating fruit.

Wondering what to do with leftover watermelon? As much as we love this juicy delight, a whole watermelon is quite the giant. And unless you’re feeding a crowd for a picnic or BBQ, you’ll often find yourself faced with leftover melon. So, you wrap it up and put it in the fridge, vowing to finish it later and even if you do, it may get boring to enjoy it the same way every time.

Luckily there are many creative ways to enjoy watermelon that don’t include just eating it plain so you can make the most of your summer fruit!

❄️How To Store Leftover Watermelon Properly

Learning how to store watermelon the right way will ensure you get the maximum shelf life and taste for watermelon leftover recipes!

Whole Watermelon

1. Whole, uncut watermelons can be stored at room temperature (up to 70°F or 21°C) for about 1-2 weeks. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
2. If the temperature exceeds 70°F, you may need to keep the watermelon in a cooler area to extend its shelf life.
3. After buying a watermelon, it is also advisable to wash its surface with a clean cloth dampened with a mild bleach solution to remove any potential bacterial contamination. Then dry the melon thoroughly before storing.

Cut Watermelon

1. Once a watermelon is cut, it should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. This prevents the watermelon from absorbing the odors of other foods and keeps it juicy and crisp.
2. Cut watermelon should be refrigerated right away. It can last in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days.
3. For longer storage, you can freeze cut watermelon. Place the cut pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, and then transfer the pieces to a freezer bag or container. Frozen watermelon can last up to 12 months. However, note that the texture will change when frozen, so it’s best used in smoothies or other blended dishes.

Watermelon Juice

1. If you have leftover watermelon juice, it can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
2. For longer storage, freeze the juice in ice cube trays and then transfer to a freezer bag or container. These can be used in smoothies or other drinks and can last up to 12 months.

🍉15 Leftover Watermelon Recipes

1. Watermelon Lemonade: Simply blend the watermelon pieces in a blender until smooth. Strain if you prefer juice without pulp. Add lemon juice and sweetener. Serve chilled.
2. Watermelon Salad: Combine cubed watermelon with crumbled feta cheese, mint leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction. It’s a perfect mix of sweet, salty, and fresh flavors.
3. Watermelon Sorbet: Puree watermelon and strain. Mix with a little bit of sugar and lemon juice, then freeze. Stir every few hours until it’s a light, icy consistency.
4. Watermelon Salsa: Dice watermelon and combine with diced onion, jalapeno, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Use as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, or serve as a dip with tortilla chips.
5. Grilled Watermelon: Cut watermelon into thick slices and grill each side for a few minutes. Sprinkle with a little bit of sea salt before serving.
6. Watermelon Gazpacho: Puree watermelon, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and garlic in a blender. Add red wine vinegar, olive oil, and salt. Chill before serving.
7. Watermelon Smoothie: Blend watermelon, a banana, and a handful of strawberries for a refreshing drink. Add a bit of yogurt or almond milk for a creamier texture.
8. Watermelon Popsicles: Puree watermelon and pour into popsicle molds. Freeze and enjoy a natural, refreshing treat on a hot day.
9. Watermelon Pizza: Slice watermelon into round, flat slices and top with Greek yogurt, berries, and a drizzle of honey for a fun, healthy snack.
10. Watermelon Rind Pickles: Peel and cut the rind into chunks. Boil with sugar, vinegar, and spices until tender. Let cool in the syrup, then refrigerate for a few hours.
11. Watermelon Jelly: Puree watermelon and strain. Mix with sugar and pectin, then boil until it reaches the desired consistency. Pour into jars and seal.
12. Watermelon Infused Water: Add cubes or slices of watermelon into a jug of water. Leave it in the fridge for a few hours to let the flavors infuse.
13. Watermelon Martini: Blend watermelon and strain. Mix the juice with vodka and a little bit of lime juice. Serve chilled.
14. Watermelon Ice Cubes: Cut watermelon into small pieces or use a melon baller, then freeze. Use these fruity cubes in your water or iced tea.
15. Watermelon Rind Curry: Peel the green skin from the rind and cut into small pieces. Cook with your favorite spices, tomatoes, and onions for a unique, vegetarian curry.

❔FAQ

Is it safe to eat leftover watermelon that’s been sitting out?
As a rule of thumb, cut watermelon left at room temperature for more than two hours should be discarded. Bacteria can grow rapidly at room temperature and cause foodborne illness, especially in the summer heat.

Can you freeze leftover watermelon?
Yes, you can freeze leftover watermelon, though the texture will be softer once thawed. It’s best to use frozen watermelon in smoothies or juices, rather than eating it directly.

How can I tell if my leftover watermelon is spoiled?
Signs of spoilage include a sour or off smell, slimy texture, or visible mold. If any of these are present, it’s best to discard the watermelon.

Are there ways to use the watermelon rind, so I waste less of the fruit?
Watermelon rind can be pickled, stir-fried, or used in curry, among other things. Always remember to remove the green skin before using the rind.