Why is the Watermelon Rind so good for you?
When I think about summertime watermelon is always one of the first things that come to mind. Are we ready for summer? Watermelon is a staple in the summer. It wasn’t until a few years ago I learned that the watermelon rind is something that you can eat.
Watermelon Rind will not make you sick
Have you been told that if you eat the Watermelon Rind, it will make you sick? Well, I am a living testament that is a myth. People toss the watermelon when it gets to the crunchy white part of the watermelon, but this is probably the most nutritious part of the fruit. The entire watermelon from flesh to seed is edible and delicious. I prefer the rind over the pink flesh, but I am not your typical person.
Four Benefits of Eating your Watermelon Rind
Watermelon Rind has so many great nutrients in it, a very mild flavor and an excellent way to save on waste. If those reasons don’t persuade you there are also these four:
- Chlorophyll
Helps with blood building contains more of the amino acid; Citrulline than the pink flesh. - Additional Vitamins
Contains Vitamin C, Fiber, Potassium and a small amount of Vitamin B6 - Low Calorie
It contains fewer calories. Therefore, it will add bulk and variety without adding to your caloric intake. - Taste
Taste like a cucumber; everything from skin to seeds of a watermelon is edible.
What does Watermelon Rind taste like
Watermelon is a staple at our house whether cooking out or just another day is Watermelon. I typically keep the rinds and freeze them to juice. So, I will cut the skins off before serving and place them in a storage container to freeze. I try to stock up during the summer in Watermelon Rinds because they are readily available and useful for you all year long. They have very bland flavor and if eaten raw a big crunch.
Ways to eat Watermelon Rind
There are so many ways that you can eat Watermelon Rind; pickled, preserved, chutney, raw, in a salad, stir-fry, juice or a smoothie. The easiest way that I have found to get my kids to eat it is to make it a refreshing smoothie or popsicle. It’s a great way to get those wonderful nutrients in and save waste.
I’ve tried it both ways with the skin and without the skin. If you have a good blender like a Vitamix or Ninja would include the skin because it is edible and will break it down so that it doesn’t affect the texture. If you do not, I would recommend including the skin because it can be a weird texture kind of like pulp in Orange Juice. Also, as far as taste goes it will not overpower the Popsicle so don’t be scared!
Ingredients
- 3 cups seeded watermelon including the rind (skinned or with skin is your choice but there are more nutrients in the skin), fresh or frozen
- 1 cup cucumber, peeled
- 2 lemons freshly squeezed lemon juice,
- 2 tbsp of fresh mint (2 or 3 leaves depending on type of mint)
- 3-4 tablespoons raw clover honey
- 3 cups ice cubes made from coconut water (great to naturally sweeten)
Instructions
- Prep the watermelon – cut into bite size chunks. Freeze the watermelon chunks for a few hours or overnight {best}.
- Peel the Cucumber skin Cut in half lengthwise,and remove seeds. Discard seeds.
- Just use mint leaves discard stems.
- Add all ingredients to the blender. Blend on high speed until combined and smooth. If you’re not able to blend it well add a little (like 1 tbsp at a time) of coconut water. You don't want it too wet!
- If making Popsicle place in Popsicle mold and freeze till solid.
- If making a smoothie; Serve immediately and Enjoy!
