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How Do I Choose the Best Yellow Watermelon?

Kristeen Moore
Kristeen Moore

Yellow watermelon is a popular variation of the common type of fruit which usually has a pink to red edible flesh. The yellow versions of the fruit tend to have a stronger taste, and they also contain slightly fewer calories than their red counterparts. In order to enjoy the best tasting yellow watermelon, it is important to first pick versions that are just ripe. There are also certain measures to take in terms of storing cut and whole watermelon to preserve its freshness.

Red is the most common type of watermelon, but many people prefer yellow versions for their distinct taste. Like red types, yellow watermelon flesh is juicy and sweet. The yellow flesh of this fruit is actually slightly sweeter than its red counterpart, and it even has a rich honey-like undertone when ripe. This watermelon complements other types of fruit in a salad or by itself in a mixed platter.

Yellow watermelon.
Yellow watermelon.

Watermelon is widely sold in stores and at farmer’s markets across the world. Although considered a summer fruit, watermelon is actually sold year-round in many countries, thanks to the transportation of produce overseas. When seeking the fruit, it is first important to select perfectly-ripe yellow watermelon, which tends to be heavy and has an even exterior. Yellow markings on the side of the fruit usually indicate where it grew in the ground, and does not affect the quality of the flesh inside. Another method to determine freshness is by tapping the melon with your palm; a deep tone should result.

The fact that yellow watermelon is available year-round in many countries can sometimes give shoppers the falsehood that all fruit that is chosen is in good condition. Aside from the state of the exterior of the fruit, there are certain signs to look for that indicate a spoiled watermelon. Fruit that leaks any type of liquid means that the yellow flesh inside is no longer edible. If you cut open a yellow watermelon at home and find the flesh to be mushy, it is best to discard the fruit immediately.

Although you do not eat the skin of a yellow watermelon, it is still important to take certain preparations so that anything on the outside does not affect the sweet flesh inside the fruit. Spots on the skin of a watermelon might mean that there are spoiled lesions throughout the fruit that can extend to the yellow flesh. Before cutting up the watermelon, make sure that there is no dirt or debris on the rind that can make its way to the interior meat.

Storing yellow watermelon properly will also help to ensure that the fruit stays at its freshest longer. After buying a watermelon, it can stay fresh for a couple of weeks at room temperature, so long as it is not cut. Once you cut a watermelon, the leftovers must be refrigerated, and the fruit usually lasts five to seven days.

Discussion Comments

anon991998

Had my first bite of absolutely delicious yellow watermelon at a huge store named the Country Mercantile, located 7 miles north of Pasco, Washington, a week ago. I have been trying to find them at a local store ever since to no avail. Since it is 2 1/2 hours from where I live, it is definitely too far to go for dessert! I have found seed on the net but not sure which kind to buy. I'm sending out the troops to see who is going that way so I may get an answer. Thanks for all your info.

Chmander

One thing I think red watermelons lack in comparison to the yellow kind is taste. The red ones have a very flat watery taste. Then again, they are called water-melons, so I really shouldn't be surprised.

RoyalSpyder

At the beginning of the article, I noticed that it says the yellow versions of watermelons have a stronger taste than the red kind. I find this interesting because last night, I was reading an article about yellow plums, and it said nearly the exact same thing. In fact, in that same article, it discussed how yellow plums can be used in a variety of dishes, unlike red plums. I definitely think I'll be trying out yellow watermelon soon. Just like Viranty, I'm not big on melons. However, I'm always willing to try something new, especially if it has a better taste.

Viranty
I've never been big on watermelon. Then again, I've only tried red, which as the article states, is a more common type of watermelon. Also, I'm quite surprised the article doesn't (directly) mention where it's sold. Does anyone know where I can buy yellow watermelon? I'd like to try some out one day.
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      Yellow watermelon.