Watermelon is a big part of my summer. I love it. There’s something about biting into a juicy, sweet piece of watermelon on a hot day that just feels right. Whether I’m hosting a barbecue, heading to the beach, or just lounging on my porch, watermelon is my go-to treat. But as much as I love watermelon, I’ve often found myself wondering: how long does it actually last? And what’s the best way to store it to keep it fresh and delicious for as long as possible?
First things first, let’s talk about whole watermelons. An uncut watermelon can last quite a while, which is great news if you’re like me and buy them in bulk whenever they’re on sale. Generally, an uncut watermelon can last about two weeks if you store it at room temperature. However, if you want to stretch that a bit, you can store it in a cooler place, like a basement or a cellar, and it might last up to three weeks. The key is to keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Once you cut into that watermelon, though, the clock starts ticking a bit faster. A cut watermelon will typically last around 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator. To maximize its freshness, make sure to cover the cut surfaces tightly with plastic wrap or place the pieces in an airtight container. This helps to prevent the watermelon from drying out and keeps it tasting sweet and juicy.
Now, let’s get into the best ways to store cut watermelon. As I mentioned, an airtight container is your best bet. If you’re like me and sometimes get a little lazy with food prep, you might be tempted to just toss it in a bowl and cover it with foil. Don’t do that. Trust me, you’ll regret it. The watermelon will dry out faster, and it might even absorb odors from other foods in the fridge, which is just…not good.
