What could be more satisfying on a hot summer’s day than a juicy, sweet piece of watermelon? With prices dropping after a bumper harvest and new varieties on the market, now’s a good time to enjoy this refreshing fruit.
Scientifically known as Citrullus lanatus, watermelon belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family, which includes cucumbers, pumpkins, and squash. Originating from Africa, they’ve been cultivated for thousands of years, with evidence of their consumption dating back to ancient Egypt.
These fruits thrive in warm climates with plenty of sunshine and well-drained soil, making them popular in regions such as the Mediterranean, Southeast Asia and the southern United States. But we also grow watermelon here in Aotearoa — and right now the price is right. Plus, there are new varieties to look out for. Gordon McPhail, general manager of farm at LeaderBrand, says, “This year we’ve grown a variety of melons, but we’re most proud of our micro-seeded variety. It’s the closest we can get to pip-less melons, so you’ll no longer need to flick or spit out the pips with this hassle-free melon — it’s the easiest and juiciest melon you’ll taste this summer.”
Selecting a ripe watermelon is an art form in itself. Look for a firm, symmetrical fruit that feels heavy for its size, denoting a high water content. The underside, where the melon rested on the ground, should have a creamy yellow spot, indicating ripeness. Additionally, tapping the melon and listening for a deep, hollow sound can also signify its readiness.
Once you’ve chosen the perfect watermelon, there are countless ways to enjoy this refreshing fruit. Slicing it into wedges and enjoying it fresh is a classic approach, but watermelon can also be incorporated into salads, smoothies, and cocktails for a burst of sweetness and hydration. Some creative uses include blending it into gazpachos, skewering it with feta cheese for a savoury-sweet appetiser, or even grilling it to bring out its natural sugars. It can even be barbecued.
