Refrigerator Watermelon Rind Pickles
Refreshing refrigerator watermelon rind pickles offer a sweet-tangy flavor with warm cinnamon notes, perfect for those seeking a unique, cool condiment or snack during warm months.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, stir together the watermelon rind, sugar, vinegar, and cinnamon sticks.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring often.
- Reduce heat to low.
- Cover the saucepan.
- Simmer slowly for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the rind is tender and translucent.
- Allow to cool.
- Refrigerate the rind with the liquid in a covered glass container.
- Let it sit for at least 12 hours before serving to blend flavors.
- Pickles will keep up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter pickle, adjust the sugar to your taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or cloves. Ensure the watermelon rind is thoroughly peeled, as any remaining red will affect the final color. This recipe pairs beautifully with Scotch Oat Bars for a sweet treat after a savory meal.
Serving Suggestions
These pickles make a fantastic side for summer barbecues or picnics. They complement grilled meats like beef ribs or can be served as a tangy snack alongside Vegan recipes. Try adding them to charcuterie boards for a unique touch, or enjoy them with sandwiches for extra crunch and zing.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pickles in a covered glass container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 2 weeks. For best flavor, consume within the first week. No reheating is necessary; serve cold straight from the fridge for the best crunch and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Refrigerator Watermelon Rind Pickles contains roughly 824 calories, with 7g protein, 156g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (57% of the Daily Value), iron (44% of the Daily Value), and calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 16g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 the rind from any type of watermelon?
Yes, you can use any variety of watermelon, but ensure it is fresh and firm. The rinds from seedless watermelons tend to be thicker and more suitable for pickling. Just remember to peel off all the red flesh for the best results.
How can I make these pickles spicier?
To add heat, incorporate sliced jalapeños or sprinkle in red pepper flakes during the cooking process. You can also experiment with adding a dash of hot sauce to the vinegar mixture to kick up the spice level even further.
What can I do with leftover pickling liquid?
Don't discard the leftover pickling liquid! It can be used to marinate other vegetables or as a tangy addition to salad dressings. You can also dilute it with water for a refreshing summer drink or use it to flavor sauces or soups.
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).