Yesterday was National Watermelon Day, celebrating the fruit that has cooled summer gatherings for thousands of years.
Watermelons were domesticated in northeastern Africa more than 4,000 years ago, where their high water content made them valuable in dry climates. The fruit is about 92% water and also provides vitamin C, potassium and lycopene. Americans had nearly 15 pounds available per person in 2024, and about 92% of watermelons sold nationwide are seedless. More than 300 varieties are grown across the United States and South America, with flesh ranging from classic red to pink, yellow and orange for every summer table.
For a playful twist on summer’s freshest fruit, freeze half a seedless watermelon overnight, add cold heavy cream or coconut milk to a small hollowed center, then scrape and stir until it becomes a light, fluffy ice cream served straight from the rind.
– Staff report with AI assist*, The Today 100
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