August 3 is National Watermelon Day, and this year’s observance feels particularly well timed as Malta experiences temperatures of around 34°C.
At lunchtime on Monday, Malta was mostly sunny at 34°C, which was also the forecast high for the day.
National Watermelon Day is an informal food observance celebrated annually on August 3. Its original creator is not known, but the occasion has become a popular opportunity to celebrate the fruit through recipes, summer gatherings and social-media posts.
Why Watermelon Suits A Hot Summer Day
Watermelon is approximately 92% water, which explains much of its refreshing appeal when served cold.
According to the National Watermelon Promotion Board, two cups of watermelon contain approximately 80 calories and provide nutrients including vitamins A, B6 and C, potassium and magnesium.
Fruit can contribute to daily fluid intake, although people should still drink enough water and take the usual precautions during Malta’s summer heat.
How To Choose A Good Watermelon
The National Watermelon Promotion Board recommends checking three things when choosing a whole watermelon.
Look for one that is firm, symmetrical and free from major bruises, cuts or dents. Lift it to check that it feels heavy for its size, since much of its weight comes from water.
Finally, turn it over. A creamy yellow patch on the underside indicates the spot where the watermelon rested on the ground while ripening in the sun.
Wash The Rind Before Cutting
Even though the rind is normally removed, the outside of a watermelon should be rinsed under running water before it is cut.
The US Food and Drug Administration recommends scrubbing firm produce such as melons with a clean produce brush. This helps prevent dirt or bacteria on the rind from being transferred to the flesh by the knife. Soap or detergent should not be used on fresh produce.
Pre-cut watermelon should be refrigerated. Food-safety guidance also recommends refrigerating cut fruit within one hour when it is exposed to temperatures above 32°C — particularly relevant during a hot Maltese afternoon, picnic or beach day.
More Than Just A Cold Slice
Eating watermelon straight from the fridge remains the simplest option, but it can also be used in summer salads, chilled drinks, fruit skewers, frozen desserts and granita.
The flesh is not the only edible part. The rind can also be pickled or incorporated into recipes, offering a way to reduce food waste.
However it is served, National Watermelon Day has arrived on a day when a cold slice feels particularly appropriate.
