Juicy, sweet, and refreshing — watermelon is a must during the hot summer months! This thirst-quenching staple is delicious sliced up and eaten by itself, or when served as a side dish at your cookout. We show you how to pick the perfect watermelon and offer some fresh ideas on how to use it.

Make the ripe choice! Picking a watermelon is as easy as 1, 2, 3!

1. Check the weight — heavier is better! A good watermelon is 92% water.
2. Look for the buttery yellow ground spot. A ripe watermelon has a deep green rind with a buttery yellow spot where it sat on the ground and ripened in the sun.
3. Look for a smooth rind. Make sure it’s free of cuts, dents and bruises.

Fire and Ice Salsa with Watermelon!

Juicy watermelon replaces tomatoes in this refreshing salsa — perfect for summer cookouts. Serve with tortilla chips or use as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.

  

Grilled Watermelon

Heat grill to about 400ºF. Cut watermelon into triangle wedges, small enough to pick up and eat. Grill 2-6 minutes on each side, depending on ripeness. Remove from grill, drizzle with Market District^® balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with Feta cheese and fresh basil (optional).