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If you have only eaten red watermelon, chances are that the first glimpse of a yellow one can be unexpected. The exterior of both appears to be the same. Cut it open, and instead of the familiar red flesh, you're met with a vibrant golden-yellow interior. Despite what appears to be unusual, yellow watermelon is not a genetically altered fruit or a recent innovation. In reality, if history has to be believed, yellow watermelons existed even before the red types and trace their roots back to Africa, where watermelon was first domesticated thousands of years ago.
The bright sunny colour of yellow watermelon comes from naturally occurring carotenoids, which are responsible for its colour. The flavour is also a bit different. Many people describe it as sweeter, with light notes of honey, somewhat like apricot or even lightly mango. Beyond its striking appearance, yellow watermelon is just as refreshing, hydrating, and versatile, making it a seasonal fruit you should know about.
Health Benefits Of Yellow Watermelon
Yellow watermelon is naturally rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and water, making it a refreshing fruit to enjoy during summer and monsoon days, as it helps keep the body hydrated in hot, humid weather.
Like the red one, the yellow type also has citrulline. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), citrulline has been studied for its possible role in sustaining healthy blood circulation. The study has also discovered that some yellow watermelons contain as much, or even sometimes more, citrulline than the red ones.
Yellow watermelon also has beta-carotene, the natural plant pigment that is responsible for its golden flesh. The human body changes beta-carotene into vitamin A, which plays an important role in supporting healthy vision, skin, and immune function.
Uses Of Yellow Watermelon
The naturally sweet flavour and vibrant colour make yellow watermelon far more adaptable than just eating it alone. Here are some scrumptious ways by which you can make the most of this fruit:
Add To Fresh Fruit Platters
The simplest way to relish yellow watermelon is exactly as nature planned it. Cut into cubes or wedges and add to the fruit platter. Its bright golden flesh adds a colour pop to the fruit platters that makes it more visually appealing. As its flavour is a bit sweeter than the red one, it pairs perfectly with berries, grapes, kiwi, and also some citrus fruits.
A squeeze of lime and a few fresh mint leaves sweeten its refreshing quality even more. Whether served during summer brunch, picnics, or gatherings, its bright colour often becomes the centre of conversation.
(Image credit: Freepik)
Add To Salads
Yellow watermelon adds visual charm and light sweetness to the salads. Toss some cucumber cubes with cucumber, feta cheese, basil, mint, toasted pumpkin seeds, and a simple lemon-olive oil dressing to make a refreshing salad that not only fills you but also refreshes your palate. lunch. Its juicy texture perfectly balances the saltiness of cheese, particularly well, whereas the herbs highlight its floral taste profile.
This combination is cooling and light, and works particularly well for hot afternoon days, when having a full-course heavy meal does not appeal. The amazing yellow colour also makes an appealing contrast against the leafy greens, making even a simple salad bowl look restaurant-worthy.
Blend To Smoothies And Juices
As the yellow watermelon is high in water content, it blends perfectly into smoothies and juices without the need to add more liquid. Mix it with pineapple, coconut water, ginger, or fresh mint for sweet beverages that soothe you and keep you hydrated.
The honey-like flavour of fruit also works perfectly with mango and passion fruit, making a drink that feels bright and refreshing. Since the fruit is already naturally juicy and sweet, you do not have to add any extra sugar or cream to it.
(Image credit: Freepik)
Chilled Sorbets And Popsicles
Yellow watermelon, when frozen, works incredibly well for homemade frozen desserts. Blend the fruit with some lime juice and a hint of honey, pour this liquid into the mould, and keep it in the freezer. The outcome is a naturally colourful dessert that has very little added sugar.
Unlike dairy frozen treats, which have added cream and feel heavy, watermelon-based popsicles feel light and refreshing, having the goodness of fruit. Children particularly like their bright appearance, making them an effortless way to add more seasonal fruit to their diet.
