Watermelons

~ By PCBeachlover ~

I absolutely LOVE watermelon! Nothing tastes better on these hot summer days in Georgia than an ice cold slice of this delicious fruit. But I'm not alone in my love for it, and it hasn't just come onto the fruit scene. Watermelons have been around for centuries. Many historians believe watermelons originated in Africa as early as 5,000 years ago. It's popularity has since spread around the world, with over 96 varieties grown worldwide, and it is now the most consumed melon in the United States.

Watermelon is not only delicious, it's also very nutritious. It has no cholesterol, is rich in vitamins, and a great source of lycopene. It is approximately 92% water. They are not only good eaten in slices, but there are many recipes that also use watermelon.

The latin name for the watermelon is Citrullus Lanatus and it is part of the Curcurbitaceae family, which is also the family of squash, cucumbers and pumpkins. The rind looks deceivingly tough, but is actually quite fragile.

There are several types of watermelon, both seeded and seedless, which range in average size from around 1-7 pounds for the smallest to the heaviest being around 20-45 pounds (believe me, they ARE heavy!!!). There are both red and yellow fleshed ones ( I like the yellow better), and each has a distinctive flavor but all are sweet.

If you've never had watermelon before, I urge you to try this delicious fruit. But call me when you start to cut it open and I'll join you!!!!

         

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