Watermelon rinds, often discarded, are packed with nutrients and can be eaten. One way to recycle them, is to caramelize them, by cooking them in a mixture of water and sugar! These delicious and nutritious snacks can be stored for up to a month and be used to garnish cocktails or desserts!
Watermelons are the star of the summer with their spongy flesh, refreshing taste, and hundreds of ways in which they can be enjoyed. They’re also famous for having giant rinds that fill our trash bags. Wait, you’re throwing them away? Stop! Did you know you can recycle those and make yourself a delicious snack?
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How to Recycle Watermelon Rinds: the No-Waste Method to Use The Best Part of The Watermelon
Watermelon rinds, often discarded, are packed with nutrients and can be eaten. One way to recycle them, is to caramelize them, by cooking them in a mixture of water and sugar! These delicious and nutritious snacks can be stored for up to a month and be used to garnish cocktails or desserts!
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By Editorial Team
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Watermelons are the star of the summer with their spongy flesh, refreshing taste, and hundreds of ways in which they can be enjoyed. They’re also famous for having giant rinds that fill our trash bags. Wait, you’re throwing them away? Stop! Did you know you can recycle those and make yourself a delicious snack?
Are Watermelon Rinds Good For Eating?
Watermelon rinds, often discarded without a second thought, are actually packed with nutrients and can be a surprising addition to your diet. Yes, they can be eaten! The rinds contain vitamins A, B6, and C, as well as potassium and zinc. They also have a good amount of citrulline, an amino acid beneficial for heart health and reducing muscle soreness. While the flesh of the watermelon is sweet and hydrating, the rind offers a mild flavor that can be transformed into a variety of culinary delights. By repurposing the rind, you’re not only reducing waste but also adding a healthy snack to your repertoire
Here’s a complete recipe and guide you can use for your site:
Most of us enjoy the sweet, juicy flesh of watermelon and toss the rind straight into the trash or compost. But did you know the rind is actually edible, packed with nutrients, and can be turned into delicious recipes? Instead of wasting it, here’s a no-waste method to transform watermelon rinds into something tasty and refreshing.
🍴 Recipe: Watermelon Rind Pickles
Ingredients:
- 4 cups watermelon rind, peeled and cut into cubes
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional, for spice)
- 2–3 cloves garlic, lightly crushed
🥣 Instructions:
- Prepare the Rind: Cut away the green skin and any pink flesh. Dice the firm white rind into small cubes.
- Boil the Brine: In a saucepan, combine vinegar, sugar, water, salt, and spices. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Cook the Rind: Add the watermelon rind cubes and simmer for about 10 minutes until just tender.
- Jar It Up: Transfer everything (liquid and rinds) into clean glass jars. Seal tightly.
- Marinate: Let the jars cool before refrigerating. Allow at least 24 hours before eating for the best flavor.
🌟 Why You’ll Love It
- Zero waste: Uses a part of the watermelon most people throw away.
- Nutritious: Rind is rich in fiber, citrulline (good for blood flow), and antioxidants.
- Versatile: Adds a crunchy, tangy bite to sandwiches, salads, or grilled dishes.
💡 Other Ideas for Watermelon Rinds:
- Blend into smoothies for extra fiber.
- Stir-fry with garlic and soy sauce for an Asian-inspired side dish.
- Candy the rinds by simmering in sugar syrup for a sweet treat.
✅ With this no-waste method, you’ll never look at watermelon rinds the same way again — they can become the star of your kitchen!