Watermelon is a summertime staple, but what if you’re looking for a substitute or alternative? Maybe you have a watermelon allergy, or perhaps you’re looking for something with a different flavor or texture. Whatever your reason, there are plenty of options out there that can satisfy your cravings.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best watermelon substitutes and alternatives. So, whether you’re looking for something sweet, juicy, or refreshing, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to discover a whole new world of summertime treats!

List of Substitutes for Watermelon

Cantaloupe

Cantaloupe is a sweet and juicy fruit that can be an excellent alternative to watermelon. Like watermelon, it is low in calories, making it a great option for those watching their weight.

Additionally, cantaloupe is packed with vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and folate, which can help support overall health.

Cantaloupe also has a similar texture to watermelon and can be enjoyed in similar ways, such as sliced or cubed for a refreshing snack, or added to salads or smoothies for extra flavor and nutrition.

Overall, cantaloupe can be a delicious and healthy substitute for watermelon, providing a sweet and refreshing treat with numerous health benefits.

Honeydew 

Honeydew is a type of melon that is round and has a light green skin. It has a sweet and juicy flesh that is often used in salads, smoothies, and desserts.

Honeydew is a great alternative to watermelon because it is much easier to cut and serve, and it has a milder and sweeter taste than watermelon.

Additionally, honeydew is high in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy and tasty snack.

Papaya

Papaya is a tropical fruit that can serve as a great substitute for watermelon.

One reason is that papaya has a similar texture to watermelon, with a soft and juicy flesh that can be refreshing on a hot day.

Another reason is that papaya is also a great source of hydration, with a high water content that can help keep you hydrated throughout the day.

In addition, papaya is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium, which can help support a healthy immune system and regulate blood pressure.

Finally, papaya has a unique flavor that can be a refreshing change of pace from watermelon, with a slightly sweet and musky taste that pairs well with other tropical fruits and flavors.

Mango

Mango is a tropical fruit that is both sweet and juicy. It has a unique flavor that is unlike any other fruit, making it a great alternative to watermelon.

Mango is packed with vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium. It also contains healthy amounts of dietary fiber, which can help with digestion and weight loss.

The high natural sugar content of mango makes it an ideal snack for those who are looking for a sweet treat without the added sugar.

Pineapple

Pineapple is a great alternative to watermelon and is a delicious tropical fruit. It is an excellent source of vitamin C and manganese and is also a good source of dietary fiber.

Pineapple is a juicy and sweet fruit with a unique flavor that is great for snacking or adding to salads or cocktails. It is also a great source of antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation in the body.

Pineapple is a great way to get a sweet and healthy treat without the calories of watermelon.

Peaches

Peaches are a sweet and juicy stone fruit that is available in a variety of sizes and colors. They are a great alternative to watermelon because they are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a healthy and nutritious snack.

Peaches are also a great addition to salads, smoothies, and desserts, adding a subtle sweetness to any dish. Plus, they are low in calories and fat, making them a great choice for anyone trying to watch their weight.

Nectarines

Nectarines are a type of stone fruit that have a sweet, juicy flavor and a smooth, velvety texture. They are a great alternative to watermelon because they provide a similar sweet flavor without the mess of a watermelon.

Nectarines are also a great source of vitamin C and dietary fiber, making them a great choice for a healthy snack. Additionally, they are a low calorie fruit, so they can be enjoyed without the guilt of consuming too many calories.

Plums

Plums are a sweet and juicy fruit that are similar in texture and taste to watermelon. They are a great alternative to watermelon, especially for those who may have a hard time finding watermelon in certain seasons or locations.

Plums are also packed with health benefits such as antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They are low in calories and high in fiber, making them an ideal snack for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.

Additionally, plums come in a variety of colors and sizes, making them a versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of recipes. They can be eaten fresh, baked into desserts, or added to salads for a burst of flavor.

Overall, plums make a great substitute for watermelon due to their similar taste and texture, as well as their numerous health benefits and versatility in cooking.

Strawberries

Strawberries are a popular and delicious fruit that can be a great substitute for watermelon. They are a low-calorie fruit that is high in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber. These nutrients make strawberries a great choice for maintaining a healthy weight, boosting the immune system, and promoting healthy digestion.

Strawberries are also versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes. They can be eaten fresh, added to smoothies or yogurt bowls, and used in desserts like strawberry shortcake or strawberry pie. This versatility makes them a great option for those who want to add a touch of sweetness to their meals without adding too many calories.

Additionally, strawberries are available year-round and can be found in most grocery stores. This makes them a convenient option for those who want to enjoy a sweet and nutritious snack without having to search for a specific seasonal fruit like watermelon.

Overall, strawberries are a tasty and healthy alternative to watermelon that offer a variety of nutritional benefits and culinary possibilities.

Grapes

Grapes are a juicy and sweet fruit that can be eaten fresh or dried. They are a great alternative to watermelon as they are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.

Grapes are also low in calories and high in fiber, making them an ideal snack for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. Plus, they come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, so they can provide a delicious and nutritious snack for any occasion.

What Does Watermelon Taste Like?

Watermelon has a sweet and refreshing taste that is reminiscent of summer. Its flavor is mild, but it still manages to be juicy and satisfying. The texture of watermelon is soft and tender, with a slight crunch from the seeds.

The taste of watermelon is similar to that of a very mild honeydew melon, but with a sweeter and more refreshing flavor. It has a subtle tanginess that adds depth to the sweetness, making it a perfect balance of flavors.

The texture of watermelon is one of its defining characteristics. The flesh is soft and juicy, almost like a ripe peach, but with a slight crunch from the seeds. The seeds themselves are edible, but many people prefer to remove them for ease of eating.

When you take a bite of watermelon, the juice explodes in your mouth, leaving a refreshing, cooling sensation. The sweetness of the fruit is complemented by a subtle hint of bitterness, giving it a complex flavor profile.

Overall, watermelon is a delicious and refreshing fruit with a mild, sweet taste and a soft, juicy texture. It is the perfect snack on a hot summer day and pairs well with other fruits and savory dishes alike.

Storage and Shelf Life for Watermelon

Shelf Life

Watermelon can last up to two weeks if stored properly.

Temperature

It is best to store whole watermelons at room temperature until they are cut open. After that, they should be refrigerated at a temperature between 36°F and 40°F to maintain freshness.

Ripening

Watermelon will not ripen once it is picked, so it is important to choose a ripe one when purchasing. A ripe watermelon should have a dull and uniform exterior, a yellow spot on the bottom, and a hollow sound when tapped.

Handling

Watermelons are delicate fruits and should be handled with care to prevent bruising or damage. Avoid dropping or stacking heavy objects on top of them.

Airflow

Watermelons should be stored in a well-ventilated area to promote airflow and prevent moisture buildup.

Refrigeration

Once the watermelon is cut, it should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to five days.

Separation

Watermelons should be stored separately from other fruits and vegetables to prevent the release of ethylene gas, which can cause ripening and spoilage.

Packaging

Watermelons should be stored in a cool, dry place until ready to eat. They can also be stored in the refrigerator for a refreshing, chilled treat.

Freezing

Watermelon can be frozen for later use in smoothies or as a refreshing frozen snack. To freeze, cut the watermelon into small chunks and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for a few hours until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to six months.

Nutritional Info: What Goes into a Serving of Watermelon

• One cup of diced watermelon (152 grams) is a typical serving size.
• Calories: 46
• Protein: 0.9 grams
• Fat: 0.2 grams
• Carbohydrates: 11.6 grams
• Fiber: 0.6 grams
• Sugar: 9.5 grams
• Vitamin C: 12.5% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin A: 11.1% of the DV
• Potassium: 5.2% of the DV
• Magnesium: 3.4% of the DV
• Lycopene: 6,821-12,962 mcg per cup (depending on variety)

Health Benefits of Watermelon

Watermelon is a refreshing and delicious fruit that is rich in nutrients and low in calories. It is a great source of hydration and is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that provide numerous health benefits. Here are some of the health benefits of watermelon:

Hydration

Watermelon is 92% water, making it an excellent source of hydration. Consuming watermelon regularly can help keep the body hydrated and prevent dehydration. It is particularly beneficial during the summer months when dehydration is more common.

Heart Health

Watermelon is rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that is beneficial for heart health. Lycopene helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which can lead to heart disease. Additionally, watermelon contains citrulline, an amino acid that helps improve blood flow and lower blood pressure.

Skin Health

Watermelon is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for healthy skin. Vitamin A helps promote skin cell growth, while vitamin C helps boost collagen production, which keeps the skin firm and youthful. The high water content in watermelon also helps keep the skin hydrated and moisturized.

Digestive Health

Watermelon contains fiber, which is essential for digestive health. Fiber helps promote regular bowel movements and prevents constipation. Additionally, watermelon contains natural sugars and electrolytes that can help regulate digestion and promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria.

Muscle Soreness

Watermelon contains citrulline, which has been shown to help alleviate muscle soreness. Citrulline helps improve blood flow and reduce inflammation, which can help reduce muscle soreness after exercise.

Interesting Facts About Watermelon

• Watermelons are actually classified as a fruit, not a vegetable.
• The first recorded watermelon harvest occurred in Egypt nearly 5,000 years ago.
• Watermelons are 92% water, making them a great hydrating snack.
• The largest watermelon ever grown weighed over 350 pounds.
• Watermelons were originally domesticated in Africa and are still widely grown on the continent today.
• Watermelons come in over 1200 different varieties.
• The rind of a watermelon is edible and can be pickled, stir-fried, or stewed.
• Watermelons are a member of the cucumber family.
• The seeds of a watermelon are a good source of protein and healthy fats.
• Watermelons are a good source of citrulline, an amino acid that can improve athletic performance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Watermelon

Q: What is the scientific name for watermelon?
A: Citrullus lanatus

Q: How do you pick a ripe watermelon?
A: To pick a ripe watermelon, look for a melon that is symmetrical, has a dull sheen, and is heavy for its size. Additionally, the underside of the watermelon should have a yellowish spot from where it sat on the ground and ripened in the sun.

Q: Can watermelon be used in skincare?
A: Yes, watermelon contains vitamins and antioxidants that can benefit the skin and is commonly used in skincare products.

Q: Is it safe to eat watermelon during pregnancy?
A: Yes, watermelon is safe to eat during pregnancy and can even provide essential nutrients for both the mother and baby.

Q: What is the largest watermelon on record?
A: 350.5 pounds

Q: What is the smallest watermelon on record?
A: 0.7 pounds

Q: What are some common pests that attack watermelon plants?
A: Aphids, cucumber beetles, squash bugs, and spider mites.

Q: What is the difference between seedless and seeded watermelons?
A: Seedless watermelons are genetically modified to produce sterile seeds, while seeded watermelons produce viable seeds.

Q: What is the difference between a watermelon and a cantaloupe?
A: Watermelons are part of the cucumber family, while cantaloupes are part of the muskmelon family.

Q: What is the difference between a watermelon and a honeydew melon?
A: Watermelons have a green rind and red flesh, while honeydew melons have a light green rind and pale green flesh.

Q: What is the significance of the watermelon in African American culture?
A: Watermelon has been a symbol of freedom and prosperity for African Americans since the days of slavery.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, watermelon can be substituted with a variety of fruits such as cantaloupe, honeydew, pineapple, mango, papaya, strawberries, and grapes. These alternatives provide similar nutritional benefits and can be used in a variety of recipes, including salads, smoothies, and desserts. Experimenting with different fruits can add variety and flavor to your meals and snacks, while still providing the same refreshing and hydrating qualities as watermelon.