Watermelon is a summer favorite, loved for its refreshing sweetness. But did you know that the peel is not only edible but also incredibly delicious when prepared correctly? Instead of tossing out the watermelon rind, you can turn it into a tasty treat that you’ll want to make every day. Here’s how to make the most of this often-overlooked part of the fruit.

Why Eat Watermelon Peel?

Watermelon peel is packed with nutrients, including vitamins B and C, potassium, and fiber. It has a crisp texture that can add a delightful crunch to various dishes. Plus, using the peel helps reduce food waste, making it an eco-friendly choice.

How to Prepare Watermelon Peel

There are several ways to prepare watermelon peel, but one of the easiest and most delicious methods is to pickle it. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started.

Pickled Watermelon Peel Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 cups of watermelon rind, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 cup of apple cider vinegar

• 1 cup of water

• 1 tablespoon of salt

• 1 teaspoon of black peppercorns

• 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 3-4 cloves

• Optional: a few slices of ginger for extra flavor

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rind: Start by cutting away the green outer skin and any remaining pink flesh from the watermelon rind. Cut the rind into small, bite-sized pieces.

2. Blanch the Rind: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the watermelon rind pieces and blanch for about 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

3. Make the Pickling Brine: In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, salt, peppercorns, mustard seeds, cinnamon stick, cloves, and ginger slices if using. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the salt is dissolved.

4. Pickle the Rind: Add the blanched watermelon rind to the boiling brine. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, until the rind becomes slightly translucent.

5. Cool and Store: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature. Transfer the pickled rind and brine to a clean jar with a tight-fitting lid. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before eating to allow the flavors to meld.

Enjoying Pickled Watermelon Peel

Pickled watermelon rind is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in many ways:

• Snacking: Enjoy it straight from the jar as a crunchy, tangy snack.

• Salads: Add it to salads for a burst of flavor and texture.

• Side Dish: Serve it alongside grilled meats or fish for a refreshing contrast.

• Condiment: Use it as a unique condiment on sandwiches and burgers.

By transforming watermelon peel into a delicious pickled treat, you’ll not only enjoy a new culinary delight but also make the most of every part of the fruit. Give this recipe a try, and you might find yourself making it every day!