Not every watermelon is picture perfect. If you’ve ever sliced into one and found the texture a little grainy or dry, you’re not alone. Mealy watermelon happens—and while it may not be great for fresh snacking, it still has a lot of potential in the kitchen. In fact, it’s perfect for recipes where texture takes a backseat and flavor can be amplified.
Need ideas? Try these creative ways to give that mealy melon a second life:
Make a refreshing drink: Blend it into a simple watermelon juice or agua fresca. Strain after blending melon for a smooth sip, then finish with lime, mint, or cucumber for extra flavor. Or, try it in:
Go frozen: Mealy texture doesn’t matter once it’s frozen. Purée the melon and make popsicles, watermelon granita, or sorbet. Bonus: it’s a great way to cool down on a hot day.
Add to your next smoothie: Combine with strawberries, citrus juice, coconut water, or herbs for a refreshing boost.
Simmer into syrup: Cook blended watermelon with sugar until thickened, then strain. You’ll get a subtly fruity simple syrup to use in cocktails, lemonades, or over fruit salad. Or, make this simple 2-Ingredient Melon Syrup—rind and all.
Use it in savory dishes: Watermelon’s natural sweetness makes it great in gazpacho or BBQ sauce. You can even turn it into a jam or chutney with a little citrus and spice. Or, give it a try in a chilled soup—get the recipe for Tomato-Watermelon Gazpacho.
Or just freeze it: Cube it and freeze for watermelon ice cubes—great for adding flavor to seltzer, iced tea, or cocktails. We also like this refreshing Watermelon Granita.
When life gives you a mealy melon, don’t toss it. With a little creativity, it can be the secret ingredient to something even better.
Keep reading: Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Melons and The Most Hydrating (and Delicious) Foods to Eat During a Heatwave