6 Ways to Enjoy Watermelon

Nothing says summer like biting into a ripe, juicy slice of watermelon, particularly when it’s fresh off the rind. Though the purists may say there’s no better way to eat watermelon, we’d argue that it’s time to get your fill of this in-season fruit by incorporating it into all of your meals. Consider this your personal watermelon bucket list: six recipes for anytime of day.

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Watermelon-Raspberry Breakfast Pops

Toss your smoothie aside in favor of a refreshing watermelon pop first thing in the morning. Combine the ingredients and freeze the pops (pictured above) in advance, then add a touch of something sweet on your way out the door by rolling them in toasted coconut or cocoa nibs. They’re little more than 100 calories a pop; we won’t tell if you have two.

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Arugula, Watermelon and Feta Salad

Salty feta + peppery arugula + sweet watermelon = a surprisingly perfect mix of flavors for a summer side or light lunch. Add freshly chopped mint leaves to the mix (like Ina Garten does) before dressing the salad to bring it all together.

RELATED: How to Make a Cake That Looks Like a Watermelon

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Watermelon Salsa

Trisha Yearwood’s watermelon salsa, featured in Food Network Magazine, forgoes traditional salsa ingredients in favor of juicy watermelon, mango and cucumber. And this dish takes only 15 minutes to make, leaving you plenty of time to get your place summer party-ready (or mix up a few drinks!).

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Watermelon-Strawberry Sangria

Ready to be the belle of the happy hour ball? Combine in-season strawberries with watermelon for a fresh take on sangria. Mixed with a bottle of rosé, your favorite vodka, and sliced oranges and limes for a hint of citrus, this is a summer cocktail you can sip on all evening long.

RELATED: The Very Best Summer Produce Recipes

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Watermelon Gazpacho

If you haven’t yet tried cold soup, this may be the recipe to convert you. Tyler Florence’s gazpacho is another perfect mix of salty, spicy and sweet, filled with fresh watermelon, a serrano chile and feta cheese for garnish. Serve it alongside your favorite grilled main or as an alfresco dinner party starter.

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Watermelon Granita

There’s only one way to end an epic day of watermelon eating: with a light, melon-y dessert. Combine watermelon, sugar and lemon for a super-simple granita you’ll make again and again.

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