Cherry Watermelon Pickles
Sweet and tangy cherry watermelon pickles combine refreshing watermelon rind with cherries and warm spices, creating a unique preserve perfect for snacking or garnishing dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove green skin and pink flesh from the watermelon rind.
- Cut the rind into 1-inch squares.
- Place the rind in a saucepan and cover with cold water; add salt.
- Set aside for 4 hours.
- Drain and rinse the rind with cold water and drain again.
- Add enough water to cover the rind; bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Boil the rind for 10 minutes, then remove from heat and drain thoroughly.
- Combine sugar and vinegar in a 5 to 6-quart pan.
- Tie the spices in a cheesecloth bag and add to the sugar-vinegar mixture.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and add the prepared rind.
- Cool and refrigerate for at least 8 hours.
- Remove the rind from the refrigerator.
- Bring the syrup to a boil. Add the rind and cherries; let boil for 5 minutes.
- Remove the spice bag.
- Pack the rind and cherry mixture into sterilized jars, covering completely with hot syrup.
Tips & Substitutions
When preparing the watermelon rind, ensure you remove all green skin and pink flesh for the best texture. If you don’t have whole spices, ground versions can work, but use them sparingly. For a twist, consider adding a touch of ginger or experimenting with other fruits like peaches or apricots. This recipe is a great way to utilize leftovers from summer picnics.
Serving Suggestions
These cherry watermelon pickles make a fantastic accompaniment to grilled meats or sandwiches. They also pair beautifully with cheese boards or charcuterie. For a refreshing summer salad, toss them with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette. Explore more American recipes for additional sides that complement these pickles well.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pickles in sterilized jars in the refrigerator. They can last for several weeks if kept sealed. If you want to enjoy them later, consider canning them for longer shelf life. To serve leftovers, simply remove the desired amount from the jar and enjoy straight from the fridge or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Watermelon Pickles contains roughly 925 calories, with 19g protein, 221g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (202% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (136% of the Daily Value), and calcium (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1843mg per serving (80% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits instead of cherries?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute cherries with other fruits such as peaches, plums, or even pineapple for a unique flavor. Just ensure that the fruit complements the sweetness of the pickles and adjust the cooking time accordingly to maintain the desired texture.
How long do these pickles need to sit before eating?
If you're looking to enhance the spice profile, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the syrup. This will give your pickles a nice kick, balancing the sweetness with a bit of heat.
Can I can these pickles for long-term storage?
Yes, you can can these pickles! Follow proper canning procedures to ensure they are sealed correctly. Use sterilized jars and lids, and process them in a water bath for the recommended time based on your altitude. This will allow you to enjoy your cherry watermelon pickles throughout the year.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).