Expert tips for selecting the perfect watermelon this summer

Is watermelon on your shopping list? If so, check what to consider when choosing a specific fruit. Only then will you return home with a perfectly sweet, ripe, and fresh treat.

Along with the beautiful weather, watermelon is appearing more frequently in our kitchens. And it's no wonder because this fruit hydrates us and provides instant refreshment. Its culinary use is also very versatile, as it can be used to prepare a fruit salad, a nutritious cocktail, or even homemade sorbet. There are plenty of possibilities.

This is all the more reason to know what to look out for when choosing a watermelon. After all, we all want to return from the store with the best specimen possible. How do we do it? Let me explain.

Did you know that the size of the fruit, as well as its colour and the hardness of its skin, can tell us a lot about its condition? Therefore, before you put the watermelon in your shopping cart, inspect it carefully. Only then will you ensure the selected specimen meets all your requirements?

First of all, remember that a fresh, juicy, and tasty watermelon should have beautiful, intensely dark green skin. Since we're talking about the skin, an ideal watermelon should be perfectly hard, without visible dents or damage. It’s also worth paying attention to the size of the selected watermelon. It’s best to opt for medium-sized fruits. Those that are too small may not be fully ripe.

Of course, this is not the end of useful tips. The stem of the watermelon can also tell us a lot about its condition. Contrary to appearances, we should not choose fruits with a green tip. Such a variant may indicate that the watermelon was picked from the field too early and is not fully ripe. It is better to choose specimens with brown, even dried-out stems. Only then can we be sure they will be perfect in every respect.

The next important aspect is the characteristic spot on the watermelon. This is the so-called bottom spot, which forms where the watermelon had direct contact with the ground. It should be clearly visible, and the more intense and stronger its colour, the better. This means that the fruit is fully ripe and is definitely suitable for consumption. Finally, there is the issue of sound. And I know it may sound strange at first, but trust me, this trick really works. All you have to do is take the watermelon in your hands and gently knock on it. If you hear a hollow, booming sound, it's a good sign. The watermelon is ripe and will certainly taste great.