Watermelon

Summer in a single slice — watermelon's combination of intense sweetness, cooling water content, and vivid colour makes it the most iconic seasonal fruit, equally at home at barbecues, poolside, and as a base for creative summer cooking.

Nutritional Highlights

• 1 of Your 5 a Day — 80g (about one thick slice) counts as one portion.
• 92% Water — The most hydrating whole food available; essential for hot-weather hydration and athletic recovery.
• Lycopene — The red pigment in watermelon flesh is lycopene — a powerful antioxidant associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and certain cancers. Watermelon has a higher lycopene concentration than raw tomatoes.
• L-Citrulline — An amino acid found in particularly high concentrations in the white rind; converts to arginine in the body, supporting blood vessel function and post-exercise recovery.
• Low Calorie — Approximately 30 kcal per 100g; one of the lowest-calorie sweet fruits available.

Serving Ideas

Classic: sliced cold at a barbecue with sea salt to intensify the sweetness. Feta, watermelon, mint, and chilli for a vibrant summer salad. Blended with lime juice and mint for a non-alcoholic agua fresca. Grilled briefly on a hot griddle for caramelised depth and a warm-cold contrast dessert. Watermelon, basil, and balsamic reduction for a sophisticated summer starter.

How to Store

Uncut whole watermelon: room temperature for up to 2 weeks; refrigerate for 3–4 weeks. Once cut: wrap cut surfaces tightly in cling film and refrigerate; use within 5 days. Keep cut watermelon away from strong-flavoured foods in the fridge.