A member of
the gourd family like the squash and the pumpkin, watermelon was
being consumed as early as 2400 B.C., according to Egyptian
hieroglyphics.
Selection
Inspect the watermelon to make sure it is firm, symmetrical, and free
from bruises and cuts.
Lift it up to verify that it is heavy for its size.
Turn the watermelon over. There should be a creamy yellow spot on one
side from where it sat on the ground to ripen.
Nutrition
Watermelon is 92 percent water and it is high in
lycopene, an antioxidant that may prevent some types of cancer and
cardiovascular disease.
The deep orange or red flesh of the watermelon
is high in
vitamin C and rich
in vitamin A. Vitamin A keeps the eyes healthy, while vitamin C aids
with faster healing.
Watermelon is also a good source of vitamin B6, which helps boost the
immune system, maintain regular nerve function, and produce red blood
cells. It also contains potassium, a mineral that assists with blood
pressure regulation.
To top it off, watermelon is low in calories. There are about 92
calories in two-thirds of a cup.
In addition to these benefits, it is one of the fruits with the least
amount of pesticide residues, according to the Environmental Working
Group.
Harvest
Depending on the variety and source, watermelons are
available all year but they peak in the late summer and early fall.
Watermelon is best when picked ripe, as it does not continue to ripen
after harvest. A good sign of my ripenesss is a clean break
between the fruit and stem, rather than just a cut in the stem.
With age, the gourd will create more internal liquid as the pectic
substances in its cell walls get more soluble.
Preparation
Wash your hands. Then, wash the watermelon in running
water, rinse it well, and pat it dry. Cut it into one inch chunks,
after removing the rind.
Storage
Store cut watermelon in a covered container in the
refrigerator for up to three or four days.
Uncut watermelon should be stored at room temperature until ready to
eat. If the fruit is stored properly, uncut watermelon should last
about two weeks.
|
Watermelon Seeds
Siam
Queen Basil Seeds
Indoor
Herb Garden Kit
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