By Susan Werner 
Watermelon is often regarded as the quintessential summer fruit, known for its refreshing taste and high water content. However, enjoying this juicy delight doesn’t have to end when the summer season does. By adopting a simple method for cutting and freezing watermelon, you can savor its deliciousness year-round. This guide will walk you through how to properly cube watermelon for freezing, along with tips on how to enjoy it later.
Why Freeze Watermelon?
Freezing watermelon is a fantastic way to preserve its sweetness and nutritional value. While it won’t be as crisp as fresh watermelon upon thawing, frozen watermelon can still be a delightful snack or ingredient in various recipes. Here are some reasons to consider freezing watermelon:
- Convenience: Have frozen watermelon cubes ready at any time for smoothies, cocktails, or frozen desserts.
- Prevents Waste: If you’ve bought a large watermelon or have leftovers from a summer gathering, freezing the excess prevents spoilage.
- Versatility: Frozen watermelon can be used in a range of recipes, from smoothies and beautiful granitas to refreshing frozen snacks.
Choosing the Right Watermelon
Before you start the freezing process, it’s crucial to select a ripe watermelon. Look for the following signs to pick a perfect melon:
- Weight: Choose a watermelon that feels heavier than it looks.
- Spot: Find a creamy yellow spot on the skin, indicating that it’s ripe and had a chance to mature on the vine.
- Sound: Gently knock on the watermelon—if it sounds hollow, it’s a good sign of ripeness.
How to Cut Watermelon for Freezing
The way you cut your watermelon will greatly affect its texture and usability once frozen. Follow these steps for the best results:
1. Prepare Your Tools
You’ll need a large cutting board, a sharp knife, and parchment paper for freezing.
2. Cut the Watermelon
- Remove the Rind: Place the watermelon on the cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut off both ends. Stand it upright and carefully slice off the green rind and white pith.
- Cube the Flesh: Once you have the pink flesh exposed, cut it into roughly 1-inch cubes. The smaller cubes will freeze quicker and are easier to use later.
3. Freeze the Cubes
- Arrange for Freezing: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the watermelon cubes in a single layer, ensuring they are spaced apart to prevent them from sticking together.
- Flash Freeze: Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 2 to 3 hours, or until the cubes are solid.
- Store Properly: Transfer the frozen watermelon cubes to a zip-top freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label and date the bag—frozen watermelon is typically best used within one month.
How to Use Frozen Watermelon
Frozen watermelon is versatile, so have fun using it in various creative ways:
- Smoothies: Use frozen cubes as a substitute for ice in your smoothies. The texture will remain creamy and refreshing without the excess water from melting ice.
- Granita: Blend frozen watermelon cubes in a food processor for a refreshing, light dessert. Serve it immediately for a soft texture or let it sit for a few minutes to firm up.
- Chilled Soups: Incorporate frozen watermelon into chilled soups like gazpacho for a sweet and savory experience.
- Snacks: Enjoy frozen watermelon cubes straight from the freezer as a healthy snack perfect for a hot day.
Important Notes
While thawing watermelon, remember that it will lose some of its original texture due to its high water content, making it less suitable for salads. If you want to enjoy some firmness, consider partially thawing or using it straight from the freezer in drinks or desserts.
Conclusion
Cutting watermelon into cubes before freezing is a simple and effective way to enjoy this refreshing fruit beyond the summer months. With a few easy steps, you can package and preserve watermelon for future enjoyment, whether in smoothies, cool desserts, or as icy snacks. Keep these guidelines in mind for a delicious and resourceful approach to enjoying watermelon throughout the year.
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