Watermelon is a juicy and delicious fruit that is enjoyed by many during the warm summer months. However, enjoying fresh watermelon year-round can be challenging since it has a short shelf life once cut. Properly packaging sliced watermelon allows you to keep it fresh for longer so you can enjoy it out of season.
When packaging watermelon slices, the main goals are keeping them cold and preventing exposure to air. This helps slow down oxidation and spoilage. With the right techniques, watermelon can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Should You Refrigerate Watermelon Slices?
Yes, you should refrigerate watermelon slices to extend their shelf life. The cold temperature of the refrigerator slows down bacteria growth and oxidation. Storing watermelon slices at room temperature will cause them to spoil within a couple of hours.
Refrigerating watermelon slices right after cutting them helps preserve texture, juiciness, flavor, and nutrients. It’s best to refrigerate them as quickly as possible. Leaving them out on the counter will speed up deterioration.
How to Prepare Watermelon for Storage
Properly preparing freshly cut watermelon slices before refrigerating them can further extend their shelf life. Here are some tips:
– Wash the outside of the watermelon first before slicing to avoid transferring dirt and bacteria from the rind to the fruit.
– Use a clean cutting board and knife to slice the watermelon. Be sure to sanitize your work area first.
– Cut the watermelon into even slices or cubes. Consistent sizing will help the pieces chill evenly.
– Pat the watermelon slices dry with paper towels or let drain in a colander. Getting rid of excess moisture on the surface prevents sogginess.
– Consider chilling the watermelon slices for 10-15 minutes in the refrigerator before packaging to allow them to cool faster.
How to Package Sliced Watermelon
There are a few different ways to package sliced watermelon. The best options keep air exposure to a minimum. Recommended storage containers include:
Plastic Food Storage Containers
Airtight plastic food containers are ideal for storing cut watermelon in the refrigerator. Look for ones with tightly sealed lids to prevent air getting in. Sturdy plastic helps protect the delicate fruit as well.
Aluminum Foil
You can wrap watermelon slices tightly in aluminum foil to protect them from exposure to air. Make sure the foil wraps snugly around the contours of the fruit with minimal air trapped inside.
Zip Top Plastic Bags
Resealable plastic bags can also work well for storing watermelon slices. Squeeze out excess air before sealing the bag closed. Use freezer bags for extra durability.
Vacuum Sealed Bags
For maximum freshness, use a vacuum sealer system to seal watermelon slices in an airtight bag. The vacuum removes oxygen and prevents oxidation while the airtight seal stops moisture loss.
Water Displacement Method
An alternative to packaging sliced watermelon is to store it in a container filled with water. This water displacement method prevents air exposure.
To use this technique:
– Cut watermelon slices and remove rind/seeds.
– Place clean watermelon pieces into a rigid plastic or glass container.
– Fill the container with cold water, ensuring all pieces are fully submerged.
– Refrigerate the container, changing the water daily.
The surrounding water stops oxygen from reaching and oxidizing the fruit. Stored this way, watermelon can last around 5 days.
What is the Best Container for Watermelon?
The best containers for storing cut watermelon are:
– Rigid plastic containers with tight-fitting lids – Keeps watermelon secure while preventing air exposure. Easy to stack in the fridge.
– Aluminum foil – Wraps tightly around irregular shapes. Can reuse foil so eco-friendly.
– Freezer bags – Affordable and disposable. Press out air before sealing. Opt for thicker plastic.
– Vacuum seal bags – Removes oxygen and keeps watermelon airtight for longest shelf life. Requires special equipment.
– Glass or plastic jar/bowl – Works for submerging watermelon in water displacement method.
Avoid flimsy containers, bags that aren’t airtight, or materials that can impart flavors like plastic wrap. Sturdy, non-porous materials work best.
How Long Does Watermelon Last in the Fridge?
With proper refrigeration and packaging, cut watermelon can last:
– In airtight plastic container or aluminum foil: 5-7 days
– In zip top bag with air removed: 4-5 days
– Submerged in water: 3-5 days
– Vacuum sealed: 7-10 days
Watermelon lasts longer when refrigerated below 40°F (4°C). Monitor refrigerated watermelon closely for signs of spoilage like mold growth, watery juices, or unpleasant odors. Discard if any decay is spotted.
Can You Freeze Watermelon?
Yes, it is possible to freeze watermelon slices or cubes to enjoy them long term. Freezing stops bacteria growth and slows deterioration nearly completely.
To freeze watermelon:
– Wash, seed, and cut watermelon into desired shapes. Pat dry.
– Arrange watermelon pieces in a single layer on a tray or baking sheet. Freeze until solid, about 2-3 hours.
– Transfer frozen watermelon pieces to freezer bags or airtight containers. Squeeze out excess air.
– Label bags with the date and return to the freezer.
– Properly frozen watermelon can last up to 6 months at 0°F (-18°C).
Thaw frozen watermelon in the refrigerator before serving to prevent loss of moisture and texture.
How to Serve Watermelon
Watermelon can be served and enjoyed in many ways:
– Add watermelon cubes or balls to fruit salads
– Serve chilled watermelon slices plain or with lime juice and mint
– Make watermelon agua fresca or smoothies
– Grill or skewer watermelon wedges
– Blend watermelon into salsas
– Mix diced watermelon into cold gazpacho soup
– Infuse vodka or water with watermelon overnight
– Candy or pickle watermelon rind
– Bake watermelon into cakes, pies, or other desserts
With proper storage, you can enjoy fresh watermelon any time of year. Follow these tips to keep cut watermelon from spoiling quickly.
Conclusion
Storing cut watermelon properly is key to maximizing its shelf life. Refrigeration, minimizing air exposure, and freezing allow you to enjoy this juicy fruit outside of summertime. Prepare watermelon slices correctly before chilling in an airtight storage container or submerged in water. With the right techniques, refrigerated watermelon can stay fresh for up to a week. Freezing provides even longer term storage. Give watermelon a try in everything from salads to cocktails. With proper handling, you’ll be able to savor delicious watermelon year-round.