Summertime is all about fun in the sun, cookouts, and as Ree Drummond puts it, “eating all the watermelon I can get my hands on.” The sweet melon is such a popular summer fruit that it’s hard to picture a backyard BBQ without it! Bonus: It’s naturally hydrating, perfect for the hot, sweaty months when you may need extra water.
Whether you grow them yourself or head to the store, you’ll want to find the ripest one first. Then, when you get it home, the possibilities are endless! Slice it up for a snack, add a sprinkle of lime sugar, grill it, or turn it into any number of refreshing drinks or recipes for a bite of sweetness. Thankfully, they’re usually big enough that you can make several things with just one.
But their extra-large size begs the question: How long does watermelon last after you bring it into your kitchen? How much time do you really have to eat it all? Well, the answer all depends on whether it’s whole or cut and how you store it. Read on for more tips and learn how to know whether your watermelon has gone bad.
How long does uncut watermelon last?
The good news is that a whole watermelon can last for a few weeks when uncut. According to the National Watermelon Promotion Board, if it is left at room temperature on your countertop, it will last for seven to ten days. Ideally, you’ll want to find a cooler spot for it in the 50- to 60-degree range, like a cool, dark pantry or basement. It will last two to three weeks. You can also store it in the fridge for up to three weeks, but it may lose a bit of flavor if it’s kept cold for too long.
How long does watermelon last when cut?
You do want to rely on your refrigerator with cut watermelon. Store cut watermelon in an airtight container and it should last three to five days in the fridge. This applies to both watermelon slices with the rind and cubes without the rind. You can also freeze it to make it last longer. Remove the rinds and store the pieces in an freezer-safe zip-top bag for three to six months.
How do you tell when watermelon goes bad?
So, it’s beyond the five-day mark, and you’re wondering if that watermelon in your fridge is still good to eat. Here’s what to look for. First, if the texture looks slimy or mushy on the surface, or if it has visible mold, throw it out. Also, give it a sniff. If it smells sour or fermented, it’s past its prime and better to toss it. But the good news is, you can always get more, and now you know to keep it whole as long as possible to make it last longer.
