Don’t toss it! 6 surprising uses for watermelon rind

Save the rind—here are some great ways to use it.

Key Takeaways

• Watermelon rind is edible, mildly sweet, and similar in texture to cucumber.
• Using the rind reduces waste and adds fiber and nutrients to your meals.
• Try it in pickles, stir-fries, smoothies, or slaws for creative dishes.

Watermelon is the ultimate summer fruit—sweet, juicy, and refreshing. Whether it’s sliced into wedges or cubed up for a seasonal salad, it’s a warm-weather staple that’s perfect for serving a crowd. But after slicing in and cutting away the rind, such a large portion can end up in the trash. The truth is, you’re likely tossing out something totally edible and surprisingly versatile.

From quick pickles to smoothies, watermelon rind can be transformed into a variety of dishes. It isn’t just about reducing waste—it’s also about being creative and stretching your ingredients in new ways. If you’ve never cooked with watermelon rind before, here’s how to make the most of it.

Related: 20 Refreshing Watermelon Recipes To Make All Summer Long

Is Watermelon Rind Edible?

Yes—while it may not seem like something you’d want to bite right into, watermelon rind is completely edible. The rind is made up of two parts: the green skin of the melon, and the white flesh beneath it. While the skin is tough and usually best peeled off and removed, the white section is mildly sweet and crisp. Similar to a cucumber in texture, it can become tender with the right cooking methods.

Get the Recipe: Pickled Watermelon Rind

Ways To Use Watermelon Rind

Throwing out watermelon rind isn’t just wasteful—you’re also missing out on key nutrients from the melon. Rinds are rich in fiber and amino acids. They’re also mild in flavor and texture, meaning they’re a great base to take in a variety of directions, whether sweet or savory.

Here are a few of our favorite ways to incorporate watermelon rind into new dishes:

• Quick pickles: Slice and soak in a vinegar brine with spices and herbs for a tangy snack or sandwich topper.
• Stir-fry: Chop into matchsticks and sauté with veggies and a flavorful sauce for a hearty side dish.
• Chutney: Simmer with spices, sugar, and vinegar for a sweet and spicy condiment perfect for grilled meats or cheese boards.
• Smoothies: Blend the white rind with fruit and yogurt for a fiber-rich smoothie (no, the flavor won’t be affected).
• Relish: Dice finely and mix with herbs, vinegar, and seasonings for a zesty burger or hot dog topping.
• Slaw: Shed and toss with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing for a fun twist on classic coleslaw.

Related: How To Tell If A Watermelon Is Ripe

How To Store Watermelon Rinds

If you aren’t using the rinds right away, store in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to five days. For longer storage, peel and chop the rind into pieces, then freeze in a sealed bag for up to three months. Blanching before freezing can help preserve the texture.

Related: How To Blanch Nearly Every Vegetable

Read the original article on Southern Living