Yellow watermelon, in appearance, may ‘resemble’ the familiar red watermelon variety; however, upon cutting, a huge surprise waits for you. Its captivating yellow color, sweet taste, and chilling crispness turn it into a summer delicacy, which, if missed, would be a great loss. If you are not familiar with the yellow watermelon, or you want to know how to eat it or where to buy it, this guide has all the answers.
Key Takeaways
- Yellow watermelon is a naturally existing type of watermelon that has a bright yellow inside.
- It certainly has a sweeter than red watermelon and has a delicate honey flavor.
- The yellow variant is also a healthy fruit similar to red watermelon and can be used for the same purposes.
- It is the absence of lycopene that produces the red color of a watermelon; this can provide an invalid.
- Consumers can either visit specialty grocery stores or farmers’ markets or grow it on their own to be the source of supply.
What Makes a Yellow Watermelon Yellow?
The color inside constitutes a watermelon that depends on its natural pigment content. Red watermelons contain lycopene, which is also an antioxidant found in the tomato as a colorful substance. Lack of lycopene in yellow watermelons; they get their color from a genetic mutation that occurs during the growing period. These melons are still the same; they are not genetically modified but still completely natural and old-fashioned like those that have been grown for centuries.
A yellow watermelon is not different from what the eyes see of a normal melon when you look at it from the outside. It’s green rind with stripes or plain green, it depends on the breed. However, when it is sliced, the bright yellow flesh immediately catches the eye.
Is Yellow Watermelon Natural?
Yes, definitely! Yellow watermelon is 100% natural. It is just one of the various types of ‘watermelons’ that are cultivated all around the world. Although giving the impression that red-fleshed watermelon is the earliest variety, yellow or pale watermelons also have a long history of existence. The later varieties of watermelon with red flesh gradually replaced the older ones in popularity, but the yellow ones, though not so widespread, have always been there.
What Does Yellow Watermelon Taste Like?
The incredible sweetness of the yellow watermelon is what surprises me most of the time. It even becomes sweeter than the red watermelon by way of its honey and apricot notes. The texture is also crisp and juicy like the normal one, which makes it a superb choice for spending hot summer days with a snack.
Flavor Profile:
- Sweet and fruity
- Mild honey flavor
- Slight tropical or apricot notes
- Refreshing and juicy
Yellow watermelon can replace ‘red watermelon’ in any recipe, starting from fruit salads to cocktails, or just eating it fresh in slices.
Yellow vs. Red Watermelon: Whatโs the Difference?
| Feature | Yellow Watermelon | Red Watermelon |
| Flesh Color | Bright yellow or golden | Pink to deep red |
| Taste | Sweeter, honey-like | Classic watermelon taste |
| Antioxidant | Contains beta-carotene | Contains lycopene |
| Nutrients | Vitamins A & C, potassium, antioxidants | Vitamins A & C, potassium, lycopene |
| Commonality | Less common | Very common |
| Availability | Specialty grocers, summer farmersโ markets | Most supermarkets year-round |
Health Benefits of Yellow Watermelon
The amazing thing about yellow watermelon is more about how it can be your best friend in weight control and is filled with nutrients. The top health benefits are listed below:
- Rich in Vitamin A: Supports eye health and immune function.
- High in Vitamin C: Helps with collagen production and immunity.
- Hydrating: Made up of about 92% water โ excellent for hot weather.
- Low in Calories: Great for weight management.
- Contains Antioxidants: Beta-carotene and other compounds protect your body from free radicals.
Nutrition (1 cup, diced):
- Calories: ~46
- Water: 92%
- Vitamin C: 21% of your daily value
- Vitamin A: 18% of your daily value
Where Did Yellow Watermelon Come From?
Where Do Watermelons Come From? Yellow varieties of watermelons came to Africa, where they are most commonly known. They were first taken to Southern African desert regions over 5,000 years ago. These ancient melons were small and often had yellow and pale flesh.
With time, the growth of watermelons increased in North Africa and Egypt, where domestication and cultivation were part of their lives. At the same time in the 1600s, watermelon was being grown and harvested in the American South, and today, US farmers in warm places like Florida, Georgia, and Texas are willing to create those watermelons in both red and yellow colors.
Types of Yellow Watermelon
As we can see from the list, there are different varieties of yellow watermelon, and each has its unique sweetness and size characteristics. Some of the most popular types are listed below for you to explore:
1. Yellow Crimson
- Very sweet
- Looks kind of like the red Crimson Sweet
- Green-striped rind
2. Buttercup Yellow Melon
- This type has no seeds
- Regarded as the sweetest one
- Medium size of 14โ16 lbs
3. Desert King
- Yellow to orange color is a sign of ripe flesh
- Tolerant to a shortage of water
- A bit sour test
4. Yellow Flesh Black Diamond
- Long and oval shape
- Outside color ranges from luscious green to black
- Sweetness on the light side
5. Yellow Doll
- The size is small (approximately 10 lbs)
- Easily grows in the first period
- The flesh is dense and sweet
These can be frequently obtained from farmers’ markets, online seed retailers, or specialty grocery stores during the peak summer months.
How to Pick a Ripe Yellow Watermelon
For choosing the best watermelon, the color does not matter. Read these simple tips:
Check for the Ground Spot:
- A creamy yellowish spot at the bottom is a sign that the fruit got ripe while still attached to the vine.
- A white or pale spot could be an indication the melon is not ripe enough.
Tap Test:
- The sound made by the melon when its knuckles are gently tapped on should definitely be what you listen to.
- A deep, hollow sound almost for sure means that the watermelon is already ripe.
Shape and Skin:
- Also, a uniform-shaped fruit will be rather than being swollen or of irregular shapes.
- The peel must be hard and dry but not smooth and shiny.
Where to Buy Yellow Watermelon
Even though yellow watermelons are not always easy to find, one is likely to have more luck getting them in summer months. You could try looking in the following places:
- Farmers’ markets
- Specialty grocery stores
- Organic markets
- Trader Joeโs
- Whole Foods
- Asian or international markets
If you are fortunate, regular supermarkets might be a yellow watermelon source when they are in season โ typically from June to August.
Can You Grow Yellow Watermelon?
Absolutely! If you are a home gardener, a yellow watermelon is definitely a great and fun-to-grow plant. By following the planting instructions, you basically need to take the seeds for a particular variety, and later, you will relish the moment of your harvest in late summer.
Growing Tips:
- Requires full sun
- Water deep but not often
- Pick up the well-drained soil
- Space plants well (vines can spread)
- Maturity: 70โ90 days before cutting
How to Store Yellow Watermelon
- Whole watermelon: You can refrigerate for up to 3 weeks.
- Cut watermelon: Store the slices in an airtight container and consume them 3 to 5 days if you wish to keep watermelon in the refrigerator.
Cut the yellow watermelon into cubes, remove the seeds, then arrange them single layer on the tray to freeze. The next step is to put it in a ziplock bag to prevent squandering it on smoothies and other frozen treats.
How to Use Yellow Watermelon in Recipes
Yellow watermelon can have the same recipe as red watermelon if so. So, here are some good tips for eating it up:
1. Grilled Yellow Watermelon
- Slice them into really big pieces.
- Barbecue for 1-2 minutes on each side.
- You may drop some salt on them if you like or put a balsamic glaze on.
2. Yellow Watermelon Salad
- Mix yellow watermelon (cubed), cucumber, and feta.
- Also, toss on a handful of fresh mint or basil.
- Put on a little olive oil and lime juice.
3. Spicy Yellow Watermelon Margarita
- Combine yellow watermelon with lime, tequila, and Serrano peppers in the blender
- Pour the mixture over ice and garnish the glass with a chilli-salt rim.
4. Frozen Watermelon Daiquiri
- Blend the frozen yellow watermelon with ‘rum’, lime juice, and sugar in the blender.
- You can also serve it cold, and then it will be a very invigorating summer beverage.
5. Pickled Watermelon Rind
- Cut and remove the thick green peel from the watermelon
- You should not be hesitant to use a dash of vinegar, sugar, and some aromatic spices for a tangy treat.
6. Watermelon Agua Fresca
- Put watermelon with water, lime juice, and ‘mint syrup’ into the blender.
- Cool the drink by straining it and then serve it immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions About Yellow Watermelon
Is Yellow Watermelon Rare?
Though yellow watermelon is ‘less common’ than red watermelon, yellow watermelon is not that scarce either. It is just not as widely grown or distributed as the former.
Is It Safe to Eat Yellow Watermelon?
Definitely. Yellow watermelon is safe, natural, and healthy for a ‘healthy diet’. Yellow watermelon is the same but different.
What Watermelon Color Is the Rarest?
You did not suppose that yellow is the rarest color, but no, white and orange are even rarer. Such types are not to be found easily and are the result of special farmers.
Which Watermelon Color Tastes Better?
The color of the fruit looks to be the factor that decides only. If you prefer sweeter fruit, consider the yellow watermelon to be the new flavor hero. If you are into red fruit, go ahead.
Review at Quora: Is yellow watermelon as tasty as pink?
Final Thoughts
If you are open to fresh ideas this summer, think of yellow watermelon that not only looks good but is also tasty. Because of its fair color, sweet flavor, and health benefits, it is an appropriate treat for the summer โ either just consumed fresh, turned into a drink, or used in your favorite recipes.
The next time you find yourself at a farmersโ market or a specialty store, be sure to look around for that green melon with a hidden yellow interior โ and you will be amazed at how fantastic a yellow, juicy, sweet, and sunshine-colored surprise a summertime it can become.
