Learn how to cut a watermelon into slices, cubes, balls and shapes. Enjoy this delicious fruit all summer long with these easy cutting methods!
A ripe and juicy watermelon is one of the best things about summer. It is my kids absolute favorite fruit and they get so excited whenever I bring one home. This year we actually planted one in our garden as well, so we’re crossing our fingers that it will grow.
Picking a watermelon
When I first start seeing watermelon pop into stores again, it makes me so excited for summer! You definitely want to wait until they are in season (late May to early September) to get the best tasting one. Let me show you a few good things to look for when you’re at the store before you buy one.
- Look for the field spot. Look for a yellow spot on the watermelon, so you know it had enough time on the vine to ripen. If you don’t see a yellow spot it is not ripe.
- Look for pollination points. You’ll want to look for scratches and little black spots which indicates a sweet watermelon.
- Knock on it with your knuckles. If you knock on it, it should be hard and have a deep hollow sound. A dull sound could indicate it’s spoiled.
- Look for a round shape. The round watermelons are called “girls” and are known to be sweeter. The oval ones are known as “boys” and are a little more watery.
- Pick it up. It should feel heavy for it’s size.
Now let me show you the easiest way to cut a watermelon.
How to cut watermelon slices
- First cut it in half lengthwise. Then cut in half again.
- Take one quart of the watermelon and then cut into 1-inch slices.
- If the slices seem too big, cut each slice in half again.
How to cut a watermelon into cubes
- First cut in half lengthwise. Then cut in half again.
- Cut two 45° angles on one side of the watermelon. The knife should go down to hit the rind. Turn and repeat on the other side.
- Make 1-inch cuts on the top of the watermelon, down to the rind.
Now you’re going to take your knife and cut along the bottom of the rind as shown below. From here, it will all fall out into cubes, so have a bowl near by. Then you can pour directly into the bowl.
Cutting into balls and shapes
Another fun way to cut watermelon is to cut it into balls or shapes.
- Cutting into balls: Use a melon baller or small cookie scoop.
- Cutting into shapes: Slice into 1-inch slices. Then lay the slice down onto a cutting board and press a cookie cutter into the watermelon.
Favorite ways to use it:
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How to Cut a Watermelon
Equipment
- Cutting Board
- Sharp Knife
- Bowl for storing
- Melon baller or small cookie scoop (optional)
- Cookie cutter (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 watermelon
Instructions
Slices:
- Cut the the watermelon in half lengthwise. Then cut in half again.
- Take one quart of the watermelon and then cut into 1-inch slices. If they seem too big, cut each slice in half again. Repeat with the remaining watermelon quarts.
Cubes:
- Cut the watermelon in half lengthwise. Then cut in half again.
- Cut two 45° angles on one side of the watermelon. The knife should go down to hit the rind. Turn the watermelon and repeat on the other side. Make 1-inch cuts on the top of the watermelon, down to the rind.
- Then cut along the bottom of the rind. The watermelon will fall out into cubes, so have a bowl nearby to pour it into.
Balls:
- Use a melon baller or small cookie scoop to scoop out the watermelon into balls.
Shapes:
- Slice into 1-inch slices. Then lay the slice down onto a cutting board and press a cookie cutter into the watermelon.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition provided is an estimate. It will vary based on specific ingredients used.
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