From Waste to Taste: How to use Watermelon Rind

Watermelons are a firm favourite over the summer season. But what if we told you that the delight doesn't end with the juicy pink flesh? Enter watermelon rind, the often-overlooked white part of the melon between the tough green exterior and the fruity goodness.

Watermelon rind tastes similar to cucumber and once cooked the texture becomes closer to tender, sauteed carrots. As the rind is neutral in flavour, it’s the perfect starting point to get creative! Use spices and herbs to jazz up the flavour as you wish.

Not only is cooking with your watermelon rind a simple way to reduce your food waste and get creative in the kitchen, it’s also good for you. Watermelon rind is packed full of fibre and antioxidants too. A win, win!

3 Ways with Watermelon Rind

Before you throw your watermelon “waste” in the compost, try one of these 3 clever recipes to make the most of those rinds.

Pickled Watermelon Rind

Makes 1 Jar

• 2 cups watermelon rind
• 1/2 cup vinegar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1/2 Tbsp salt
• 4 pepper corns
• 2 inches ginger, peeled‍

Method: In a pot add the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to the boil. When the salt and sugar have dissolved remove from the heat. Place the cubed watermelon rind into a clean jar. Pour over the pickling liquid. Set aside to cool down. Cover and store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Use in salads, or as a refreshing condiment alongside summer meals.

Refreshing Watermelon Rind Smoothie

• ½ cup frozen watermelon rind
• 4 strawberries
• 1 peach
• 150ml almond milk
• 1.5 tsp honey

Method: Cut the watermelon rind into small pieces and store in an airtight container in the freezer until you’re ready to use. Remove the rind from the freezer and add to blender, along with your other favourite fruity ingredients. The rind adds a great source of fiber to any smoothie.

Watermelon Rind Veggie Tacos

For a more savoury watermelon rind recipe, our Watermelon Rind Veggie Tacos with chickpeas are a must try.

Top them with a watermelon salsa too, and you’ve made the most of your whole watermelon. Yum!

Looking for more ways to use your watermelon flesh? Try this tangy Watermelon and Feta Salad. It’s summer on a plate!

Be sure to try these recipes and enjoy the full potential of New Zealand grown watermelons this summer. Your taste buds and the planet will thank you!