Learn how to easily cut a watermelon into sticks for easy snacking on the go. These grab-and-go sticks are perfect for kids and the best way to enjoy this summer fruit without making a mess!
I don’t know why watermelon sticks weren’t a thing when I was a kid but I sure wish their popularity had come a little sooner.
How many of us have had watermelon juice running down our faces trying to eat the delicious summer fruit out of a half circle slice? My hand is raised high and I know yours is as well.
Cutting watermelon into sticks is the simple and easy answer to this delicious dilemma and we’re going to walk through a step by step method of just how to do that.
How To Cut Watermelon Sticks
This method is just as quick and easy as half circles or wedges but offers the least messy approach to enjoying watermelon. It’s great for kids to grab when running around outside and adults will love it just as much.
Not to mention, it’s a great starting point for cubing watermelon if you want to use it in a recipe like a watermelon bacon salad or need some frozen chunks for a watermelon slushie.
Step 1: Wash the Melon
Start by washing the entire watermelon by running it under cold water. This will get rid of any dirt on the rind from the farm.
Since we’re not removing the rind when cutting into sticks, this is an important step.
That said, you can remove the rind entirely if preferred when cutting the watermelon this way. We like to keep it as the rind provides an easy way to grab each watermelon stick.
Step 2: Cut the Watermelon in Half
Place the rinsed watermelon on a large cutting board and cut in half widthwise (not stem to stem) using a sharp knife. As with any large melon (or winter squash), take care when doing this and watch your fingers!
Step 3: Slice into Sticks
Place one of the halves cut side down on a cutting board.
Slice the melon in 1″ to 1.5″ slices in one direction. Turn the melon around and make the same width slices in the opposite direction so that small cubes form when looking down at the watermelon.
It’s that simple! This can be repeated with the other half or that can be saved for another use. May we suggest a watermelon margarita shooter for the adults?
FAQs
As with any watermelon, it’s best tasting when served cold. The sticks can be placed in a bowl or container after cutting and refrigerated until chilled.
If you want to remove the rind, first cut the watermelon in half as described above then carve off the entire rind. Continue to slice into sticks as instructed.
*Pro tip* – don’t discard the rind. It’s actually delicious when quick pickled!
Absolutely? Frozen watermelon is the ultimate simple summer treat. Freeze and enjoy as a watermelon pop by placing popsicle sticks into each piece of watermelon or add to smoothies and frozen drinks.
Watermelon, like tomatoes is actually full of lycopene. Lycopene is an antioxidant which gives watermelon and tomatoes their naturally red color. It’s also a good source of vitamin C.
Once cut, the watermelon will stay fresh under refrigeration for about 5 days. Whole watermelons can stay out on the counter at room temperature for a couple of weeks.
How To Choose A Ripe Watermelon
According to the National Watermelon Board, there are a few things to look for when selecting the best watermelon:
- Look for a firm watermelon without bruises or dents. Superficial scratches are fine but there shouldn’t be any soft spots on the melon.
- The watermelon should feel heavy. Watermelon is 92% water so it should feel hefty for its size.
- Check out the bottom of the melon and look for a smooth yellow/creamy spot. This is where it sat on the ground and ripened in the sun on the vine.
PIN FOR LATER:
If you make and love this recipe, please leave a ★★★★★ review below! I’d love to know how it goes. Leave a comment below if you have any questions. Tag @runningtothekitchen on Instagram & Facebook.
How To Cut Watermelon Sticks
Ingredients
- 1 watermelon
- sharp Chef’s knife
Instructions
- Wash the watermelon under running water then pat dry.
- Place on a cutting board and carefully cut in half.
- Place one half, cut side down, on the cutting board.
- Cut into slices from one side to the other.
- Turn the watermelon half way around and cut slices in the opposite direction resulting in cube shaped sticks.
- Repeat with the other half of the watermelon and serve.
Nutrition Facts
This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition information can vary for a variety of reasons. For the most precise nutritional data use your preferred nutrition calculator based on the actual ingredients you used in the recipe.
Watch the web story – Step by Step Guide: How To Cut Watermelon Into Sticks.
Gina Matsoukas is the writer, founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients as much as possible. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
Erin
Friday 1st of September 2023
I also don't understand why these weren't a thing when I was a kid. This is so much more practical than the usual way! I made these for a BBQ and the result was so much better than the usual hack job I do. Thanks a bunch! Will cut my watermelon like this from now on.
Sarah
Friday 1st of September 2023
This method is so easy. I've always hated cutting watermelon since it can get messy and I always make a disaster of it. Not this time! I had gorgeous little sticks, perfect for little hands. Thanks!
Michelle Goth
Friday 1st of September 2023
This worked great! The kids loved being able to grab a stick to go.
Rebecca
Friday 1st of September 2023
It's so funny how something so simple can be so revolutionary. All these years of cutting watermelon and I've finally found a way that's less messy and so much easier to pile into a bowl and share. This is one of those life hacks I wish I'd learned 20 years ago! :-)
Julianne
Tuesday 25th of July 2023
This was so helpful! The watermelon sticks were the perfect size for my guests to grab and munch on!