While the refrigerator is ideal for storing vegetables and fruits, especially the latter, it’s not the best place for leftover watermelon. Here are three tips to keep your watermelon fresh for a week:
Method 1: Submerge in a Water-Filled Basin
When dealing with half a watermelon, instead of placing it directly in the fridge, wrap it in plastic cling film to prevent air escape. Then, fill a clean basin with water, submerging the wrapped watermelon so that it floats, and keep it in a cool, well-ventilated area. This method can keep your watermelon fresh for up to seven days, tasting better than before.
Method 2: Store in a Container in the Fridge’s Chiller Compartment
Cut the watermelon into small pieces and place them in a fresh-keeping box in the chiller compartment of your refrigerator. This straightforward method maintains the watermelon’s freshness to a reasonable extent without much fuss.
This method serves two purposes: it prevents the red flesh from coming into contact with air and guards against bacterial or mold invasion. Secondly, keeping the diced watermelon cool ensures it remains tasty and fresh.
Method 3: Freeze the Watermelon
If you wish to keep your watermelon fresh for five to seven days or longer, the best option is to freeze it. Peel the watermelon, cut it into pieces, and place them on a tray lined with wax/parchment paper. Pop the tray into the freezer for an hour. Once the watermelon pieces are frozen solid, transfer them to a zip lock bag or airtight container. With this method, your watermelon can last for up to six months.
However, thawed watermelon tends to become mushy. It’s best to use it for smoothies, yogurt, or frozen desserts, or even eat it straight from the freezer like ice cream.