By Nancy Vallarella
Ah, Labor Day weekend—the final curtain call for summer! It’s the time when we honor the hard-working spirit of America by indulging in BBQs, beach days, and, of course, the ultimate summer fruit: watermelon. This juicy, vibrant fruit has been gracing summer tables for over 4,000 years, ever since it first made a splash along the banks of the Nile River. Back then, it was a lifesaver, quenching thirst under the blazing sun, and today, it still reigns supreme in recipes, beauty products, and summer fun.
Watermelons are like nature’s perfect hydration packs—92% water, refreshingly crisp, and sweet enough to make your taste buds dance. But they’re more than just water and unprocessed sugar; they’re loaded with vitamins (A, B6, C), minerals (potassium, magnesium, thiamin, phosphorus), an amino acid (L-citrulline), and a powerful antioxidant (Glutathione). So, every bite is a burst of flavor and nutrition.
With over 1,200 varieties, watermelons are as diverse as they are delicious. On Long Island, farmers stick to three fan favorites—red, yellow, and orange. The red variety is the sweetest, with a floral hint that makes it a classic. Yellow watermelons taste like honey kissed by the sun, while orange ones bring a tangy citrus twist to the party. These tasty treasures are ripe for picking for just another week, so grab them while you can at your local farmstand!
Now, let’s talk about seeds. Sure, seedless watermelons have taken over supermarket aisles, but who doesn’t miss the days of seed-spitting contests? Whether you were a backyard champion or just enjoyed the challenge, those seeds were part of the fun. Maybe it’s time to bring back the seeds and all the childhood memories that come with them.
Watermelons aren’t just for eating, though—they’re the life of the party!
Ever seen a watermelon centerpiece? How about a watermelon keg? This fruit is a culinary chameleon, perfect for smoothies, grilling like a steak, or even making fruit pizza and fries. And for the no-waste warriors out there, don’t toss those rinds! Pickle them for a zesty condiment. Plus, the beauty aisle is bursting with watermelon-infused products—think face masks, lotions, and shampoos that leave you smelling as fresh as summer itself.
Ready to pick the perfect melon? Look for a creamy yellow field spot—that’s the sweet spot for ripeness. And remember, the heavier, the juicier!
As we say goodbye to summer and gear up for back-to-school, why not make some watermelon magic in the kitchen? Get the kids involved with watermelon fries and pizza or whip up a refreshing watermelon martini (or mocktail) to keep the adults hydrated. Cheers to the last days of summer—make them as sweet and juicy as a perfectly ripe watermelon!
FUN FACT: The largest watermelon ever grown weighed in at a whopping 350 pounds! Now that’s a big slice of summer!
Watermelon Fries with Dipping Sauce
Special Equipment: Crinkle Cutter
Ingredients:
1 half of watermelon cut lengthwise (you can cut the watermelon half in half for easier handling)
For the sauce –
1 cup Greek yogurt – use plain or a complimentary flavor. I recommend honey flavor and add lime zest for a nice contrast.
Directions:
Cut watermelon half or quarter into one-inch slices.
Remove rinds and cut with crinkle cutter into fries working from one side of the slice to the other.
Place yogurt into a small serving dish.
Plate and serve cold.
Watermelon Pizza
Ingredients:
1 slice (round disk) 1-inch-thick watermelon
½ – 1 cup Greek yogurt – use plain or a complimentary flavor. I recommend honey flavor and add lime zest for a nice contrast.
1 cup assorted sliced fruit – blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, kiwi, grapes, pineapple. Pick three of different colors.
Fresh mint for garnish.
Directions:
Cut watermelon disk into 8 slices.
Dress each slice with yogurt and fresh sliced fruit of choice.
Garnish with mint.
Both the Watermelon Fries and Pizza make a wonderful after school and classroom snack! Adults love them as a healthy dessert option.
Watermelon Martini – 2 servings
Ingredients:
2 cups cubed watermelon blended & pressed through strainer = 1 1/2 cups watermelon juice.
1/2 lime squeezed
4 shots of vodka
Optional: agave or simple syrup to taste
Directions:
Shake with ice.
Strain and pour into a chilled martini glass or on the rock in a rocks glass.
Garnish with mint
