How to Cut a Watermelon Like a Chef.

• Position the watermelon horizontally on your cutting surface. Using a sharp kitchen knife, remove a thin slice (about 1/4 inch) from one end to create a stable base. Stand the melon upright on this flat end and cut it in half from top to bottom.
• Take one of the halves and split it lengthwise again. Lay each quarter flat side down, then cut across into 1-inch thick slices to form wedges. Follow the same process with the remaining watermelon half.

To Cut into Cubes or Sticks

• Halve the watermelon crosswise using a sharp chef's knife, creating two circular pieces.
• For the first half, trim the stem end to reveal some red flesh.
• Place the melon cut-side down on your cutting board.
• Starting from the stem end, angle your knife to remove strips of rind, cutting deep enough to expose the dark pink flesh.
• Continue this process, rotating the melon until all rind is removed.
• Slice the peeled melon horizontally into three circular sections.
• Cut each circle into cubes of your preferred size.
• Repeat steps 2-7 with the second half.
• Store the cubes in a container. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours for a refreshing chill, up to 3 days for short-term storage, or freeze for 3 months or longer for extended preservation.

Notes

• TO STORE WATERMELON CUBES: Refrigerate watermelon cubes in an airtight storage container for up to 4 days.
• TO FREEZE: Lay the watermelon pieces in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the pieces to an airtight freezer-safe storage container or zip bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

Recommended Tools to Cut Watermelon

• Sharp Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife is important when cutting a watermelon, and this one is perfect.
• Extra Large Cutting Board: When cutting something as large as a watermelon, the extra space is wonderful.
• Storage Container: An easy way to portion and store your watermelon pieces.

How to identify the sweetest watermelon

Look for a watermelon that feels heavy for its size and has a large, creamy yellow spot on the bottom. This spot indicates where the melon rested on the ground, and a more pronounced yellow suggests it ripened longer on the vine. Tap the melon - a ripe, sweet one should produce a deep, hollow sound. Choose a symmetrical, oval-shaped melon with a dull, dark green rind. A dry, brown stem is another good sign of ripeness. Some people believe that small brown spots (possible bee stings) or webbing on the surface can indicate sweetness. Medium-sized melons are often sweeter than very large ones. While these tips can increase your chances of selecting a delicious watermelon, keep in mind that they don't guarantee sweetness.

How long does Cut Watermelon Last

• Refrigerated: 3-5 days
• At room temperature: 1-2 hours

For best quality and food safety:

• Store cut watermelon in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep it at 40°F (4°C) or below.
• Consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness and taste.
• Discard if you notice any signs of mold, off-odors, or slimy texture.
• Don't leave cut watermelon at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Is Watermelon Hot for Body?

Watermelon is generally considered a cooling food for the body, not a hot one. 

Watermelon has a cooling effect on the body due to its high water content (about 92%) and certain nutrients. It's rich in lycopene and other antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. The fruit also contains citrulline, an amino acid that may improve blood flow and have a mild cooling effect.