15 Reasons You Should Never Throw Out The Best Part Of The Watermelon

Most of us enjoy the juicy red flesh of watermelon but toss the pale green rind in the trash without a second thought.

What a mistake!

That firm, crunchy part you’ve been discarding is actually packed with nutrients and has dozens of practical uses in the kitchen. Before you pitch that rind, check out these surprising reasons to save what might be the most valuable part of summer’s favorite fruit.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, especially if you have health conditions, take medications, are pregnant, or have food allergies. Wash and peel rinds properly, follow safe food handling practices, and introduce new foods gradually. Individual results may vary.

1. Fiber-Packed Powerhouse

The watermelon rind contains more fiber than the sweet red flesh we typically devour. This extra roughage helps keep your digestive system running smoothly.

It’s considered a hidden superfood because most people don’t realize they’re throwing away the most nutritionally dense part. Just a small amount added to your diet can help you meet your daily fiber goals.

2. Circulation-Boosting Citrulline

Ever wonder why athletes sometimes reach for watermelon? The rind contains citrulline, an amino acid that helps improve blood flow throughout your body.

When consumed, citrulline converts to arginine, which relaxes blood vessels similar to how certain heart medications work. Your body’s circulation gets a natural boost without any pills or supplements – just from something you might have been tossing!

3. Natural Hydration Helper

Feeling parched? The watermelon rind is 90% water and packed with electrolytes. Unlike the sugary flesh, the rind provides hydration without the sugar spike.

During hot summer days, adding rind to water creates a refreshing drink that replenishes your body. Some athletes swear by watermelon rind water as a natural alternative to commercial sports drinks, minus the artificial ingredients.

4. Food Waste Warrior

Americans trash nearly 40% of our food supply yearly. Using watermelon rinds fights this wasteful trend by utilizing the whole fruit. The average watermelon weighs about 20 pounds, and nearly a third of that is rind.

By saving it, you’re keeping pounds of perfectly good food out of landfills where it would release methane, a harmful greenhouse gas. Small changes like this add up!

5. Pickle Paradise

Move over, cucumbers! Watermelon rinds transform into delicious pickles that’ll knock your socks off. The firm texture holds up beautifully in brine. Southern cooks have treasured this recipe for generations.

Once pickled, the rinds take on a sweet-tangy flavor with a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with sandwiches, burgers, or straight from the jar as a snack. They’re also gorgeous on charcuterie boards!

6. Salad Crunch Champion

Tired of the same old salad ingredients? Raw watermelon rind adds a refreshing crunch that livens up even the most boring bowl of greens.

Julienned or diced, the rind brings texture similar to jicama but with a subtle sweetness. The pale green color also makes your salad visually pop! For maximum crunch, cut it fresh just before serving and toss with a light vinaigrette that complements its mild flavor.

7. Refreshing Rind Juice

Juicing isn’t just for the sweet stuff! Watermelon rind produces a light, refreshing juice that’s less sweet than traditional fruit juices. When run through a juicer, the rind yields a pale green liquid with subtle flavor.

Combine it with apple, cucumber, or mint for a hydrating summer drink. Unlike many commercial juices, rind juice is naturally low in sugar while still providing satisfying refreshment and valuable nutrients.

8. Digestive System Supporter

Stomach feeling a bit off? Watermelon rind contains compounds that can soothe digestive discomfort and promote healthy gut bacteria. Traditional medicine practitioners have recommended watermelon rind for centuries to ease stomach ailments.

The combination of fiber, water, and natural plant compounds creates a gentle remedy for occasional digestive issues. Plus, the prebiotic qualities feed your good gut bacteria, supporting your microbiome.

9. Calorie-Conscious Snacking

Looking for a guilt-free munchie? Watermelon rind contains just 20 calories per cup while providing satisfying crunch and volume. When seasoned with a little salt and lime juice, rind sticks make a refreshing alternative to chips.

The high water content helps you feel full longer, making it perfect for weight management. Unlike many low-calorie snacks, you won’t feel deprived – the crisp texture makes it genuinely enjoyable!

10. Antioxidant Abundance

Free radicals don’t stand a chance against watermelon rind! The pale green portion contains unique antioxidants that help fight cellular damage. While different from the lycopene in red flesh, these compounds have their own protective benefits.

Research suggests regular consumption of foods rich in diverse antioxidants may help reduce inflammation and support overall health. Who knew that trash-bound rind could be such a health ally?

11. Smoothie Supercharger

Bored with your breakfast blend? Toss some watermelon rind into your morning smoothie for an easy nutrition boost without altering the flavor profile much. The mild taste blends seamlessly with fruits while adding thickness and nutrients.

Start with a small amount – about a quarter cup of peeled rind per smoothie – and blend thoroughly with your favorite fruits. Your body gets the benefits while your taste buds enjoy the same delicious flavors!

12. Immune System Booster

Feeling under the weather? Watermelon rind contains zinc and vitamin C, two nutrients essential for immune function. During cold and flu season, adding rind to your diet provides extra immune support when you need it most.

The combination of nutrients works synergistically to help your body fight off invaders. Some home remedies even use watermelon rind tea as a traditional treatment for mild infections.

13. Eco-Friendly Kitchen Hack

Going green in the kitchen? Watermelon rind is biodegradable and can replace plastic in surprising ways. Use hollowed rinds as serving bowls for fruit salads or cold dishes.

The natural container is compostable after use, unlike plastic alternatives. Some creative gardeners even use watermelon rinds as biodegradable seedling pots that can be planted directly in soil, adding nutrients as they break down.

14. Vitamin Vault

Watermelon rind is bursting with vitamins A, B6, and C – nutrients essential for skin health, energy production, and immune function. The concentration of certain vitamins is actually higher in the rind than in the red flesh.

Adding just a small amount to your meals provides a significant nutritional boost. The vitamins work together synergistically, meaning they help each other absorb better when consumed together in their natural form.

15. Creative Culinary Canvas

Chefs are discovering watermelon rind as a versatile ingredient that absorbs flavors beautifully. Its neutral taste makes it perfect for both sweet and savory dishes. From curries to chutneys, the rind adapts to whatever cuisine you’re creating.

Try it candied as a dessert topping, fermented like kimchi, or even grilled with a spicy marinade. The firm texture holds up to various cooking methods, making it a creative cook’s dream ingredient.