What is yellow watermelon, exactly? Did you even know that a yellow watermelon is an actual thing?
That’s right!
In addition to the classic red-fleshed watermelon, yellow varieties exist and are becoming increasingly popular.
Not only do they look unique, but they offer a slightly different flavor profile than the traditional favorite.
It might be worth exploring the world beyond red watermelons. Try out yellow watermelons for your next picnic or barbecue.
What Is Yellow Watermelon?
Yellow watermelon is a unique variety of popular summer fruit.
Not to be confused with its pink counterpart, this bright yellow melon has a sweeter taste and softer texture.
It’s also high in beta-carotene and vitamins A and C, making it an incredibly healthy snack!
While some might think that yellow watermelon is only for show, those who have tried it can attest to its deliciousness.
With a crisp bite and subtle honeyed sweetness, it’s sure to be a hit at any barbecue or picnic.
Plus, its vibrant hue makes for a beautiful addition to any fruit platter.
What Makes a Watermelon Yellow?
Watermelons are one of the most popular summer fruits, and their yellow color is an integral part of their appeal!
But why do some watermelons have a yellow hue while others are mostly pink?
It’s all about lycopene.
Lycopene is a naturally occurring pigment that gives certain fruits and vegetables their beautiful red colors.
For example, tomatoes and pink watermelons are high in lycopene content, hence they have a stronger hue.
On the other hand, yellow watermelons have less lycopene, and that’s what makes them yellow.
What Does Yellow Watermelon Taste Like?
Yellow watermelons taste like a summer surprise!
It’s the ultimate combination of sweet and tart, with just a hint of citrusy zing.
This delicious hybrid between a traditional red watermelon and a yellow-fleshed melon offers an exciting twist to the usual fruit dish.
When fully ripe, yellow watermelons have aromatic flesh that’s creamy, juicy, and incredibly flavorful.
They have notes of both honeydew and cantaloupe, making them more complex than their red counterpart.
On top of having an amazing taste, these bright beauties are filled with energy-boosting vitamins A and C, as well as beta-carotene.
Yellow Watermelon vs. Red Watermelon
Ah, the eternal debate: yellow watermelon vs red watermelon. Both are delicious fruits, yet so different.
Let’s take a closer look and see what sets them apart!
Yellow watermelons have an unmistakable bright hue as well as a deliciously sweet taste.
These juicy fruits are tender and smooth on the inside, with small seeds scattered throughout.
The vibrant yellow color is often associated with sunshine and summer.
They’re perfect for those hot days when you just want to cool off!
Red watermelons, on the other hand, offer something else entirely.
They tend to be juicier than their yellow counterparts, but they also carry a slightly tart flavor that many people enjoy.
Plus, they’re usually firmer on the inside, making them easier to cut and serve.
Red watermelons are often seen as a more classic choice for barbecues or picnics.
So, which one should you pick?
We can all agree that both yellow and red watermelons make for an incredibly delicious treat.
At the end of the day, it’s all about personal preference, so choose whichever one your heart desires!
However, if you’re feeling adventurous, then why not try a blend of both? Now, that would be something special.
Whichever way you go, happy snacking everyone!
Yellow Watermelon Varieties
Yellow Crimson
The yellow crimson looks just like crimson sweet (the regular pink watermelon), except that it’s yellow and a bit sweeter.
Buttercup Yellow Melon
This type is a seedless hybrid, and it has a very high sugar content. Buttercup yellow melon is actually one of the sweetest types of watermelons out there.
Yellow Flesh Black Diamond
This variety with an interesting name originates from Arkansas, and it has a very deep green, uniform color. It’s less sweet than other varieties.
Desert King
The desert king has an incredibly large amount of beta-carotene. In terms of taste, it reminds me more of a cantaloupe, but it still has that signature yellow watermelon flavor.
Yellow Doll
Yellow dolls are very small and get ripe sooner than most other watermelons.
How to Pick the Best Watermelon
When it comes to picking the best watermelon, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
First of all, look for a heavy melon that feels dense in your hand. If it feels too light for its size, move on.
You should also give it a good thump. Ripe melons produce a hollow sound when tapped or thumped.
Another great way to judge a watermelon’s ripeness is by checking out its skin color.
The perfect ones are deep green with hints of yellow underneath.
Lastly, don’t forget to check out the stem end for uniqueness. The more complex markings, the better!
How to Use Yellow Watermelon
When it comes to yellow watermelons, the options are almost endless.
You can eat it as-is, make a smoothie or cocktail out of it, or even use it to create a refreshing summer salad!
First of all, look for yellow watermelons that have a deep yellow hue throughout.
This is an indication that they’re ripe and ready to be enjoyed!
To make a smoothie or juice out of yellow watermelon, simply blend it with other fruits such as oranges, strawberries, or bananas.
This will create a delicious snack that’s full of flavor and nutrition!
If you want something a little more savory, try adding cucumbers and tomatoes to your mix.
For an added kick of sweetness, add some honey or agave syrup.
For salads, dice up the yellow watermelon and toss it together with whatever fresh ingredients you have on hand.
The result is sure to be both vibrant and refreshing!
Add some feta cheese for creaminess or some nuts for crunch. The possibilities are endless.
