When it comes to watermelons, did you know that you can't judge a melon by its rind? Both red and yellow watermelons rock the same green exterior, making it a fruity mystery. But here's the real juicy scoop – watermelon flesh wasn't always the vibrant red we know today. Nope, it used to be a mellow yellow. Thanks to some genetic magic, watermelons evolved to flaunt shades of pink and red.
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| Health Benefits of Yellow Watermelon and Simple Recipes to Try |
Now, let's dive deeper into the world of yellow watermelons. These bad boys are the OGs, the natural watermelon squad with no genetic twists. They're shorter than their red counterparts and believed to have originated in Africa. With their thicker green rinds and flesh ranging from pale yellow to gold, these gems come packed with comestible brown or black seeds (or go seedless if you prefer). And the taste? Think sweet with subtle honey undertones.
But hold up, there's more to the yellow watermelon clan. Let's take a closer look at the different types:
1. Yellow Crimson:
The most common in grocery stores, it looks like your typical watermelon on the outside but rocks a brighter yellow inside. Sweeter than its red counterpart, it turns yellow when perfectly ripe.
2. Yellow Doll:
This watermelon is a vertical-growing wonder, weighing in at five to seven pounds and maturing in just 68 days. Sweet and satisfying, it's a quick summer treat.
3. Desert King:
With the appearance of a cantaloupe but the crisp texture of watermelon, this variety boasts a high beta-carotene content and a honey-apricot flavor.
4. Buttercup Yellow Melon:
A seedless and cold-blooded variety with a seriously high sugar content – perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
5. Yellow Petite:
Clocking in at just four to seven pounds, this perfectly spherical watermelon is both sweet and conveniently fridge-friendly.
Now, let's talk health benefits because yellow watermelons are more than just a tasty treat. They're loaded with goodies that can do wonders for your well-being:
1) May Help Reduce CVD Threat:
Yellow watermelons are linked to improved cardiovascular health, thanks to their ability to lower bad cholesterol, increase good cholesterol, and reduce inflammation. Packed with vitamins A and C, they're also antioxidants that help keep your heart in top shape.
2) May Help Manage Chronic Conditions:
Studies suggest that regular consumption of yellow watermelons can assist in managing conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and obesity. The secret lies in phytochemicals like lycopene and citrulline, along with other polyphenolic compounds.
3) May Ameliorate Gut Health:
The peel of yellow watermelons is a gut-friendly powerhouse, promoting probiotic activity and providing essential water and fiber. Say goodbye to gastrointestinal discomfort, ulcers, and constipation.
Now, let's explore the health benefits in greater detail:
1) Cardiovascular Health:
Yellow watermelons contain compounds like lycopene, which have been linked to improved cardiovascular health. Jay Cowan, a registered nutritionist, notes, “Yellow watermelon has been shown to lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, increase HDL cholesterol, and reduce inflammation in cardiovascular disease cases.” Additionally, the high content of vitamins A and C in yellow watermelons contributes to reducing inflammation and strengthening the immune system.
It's not just about what's in the flesh; yellow watermelons also contain antioxidants, phytochemicals, and minerals like potassium that contribute to lowering blood pressure.
2) Managing Chronic Conditions:
Research suggests that the consumption of yellow watermelons may help in treating and reducing the risk of various chronic conditions. These include cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, obesity, and other age-related ailments. The medicinal properties are attributed to the presence of phytochemicals like lycopene, citrulline, and other polyphenolic compounds. Additionally, watermelon intake has been found to assist in weight management. L-citrulline, a non-essential amino acid present in yellow watermelons, may also help improve exercise performance and recovery in individuals.
It's important to note that while yellow watermelons offer numerous health benefits, a study has found that supplementation of β-carotene (also present in yellow watermelons) to smokers may increase the risk of lung cancer.
3) Gut Health:
The peel of yellow watermelons has been shown to have a significant probiotic effect on Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium bifid. Trista Best, a registered dietitian, emphasizes, “Yellow watermelons provide water and fiber, both of which are essential for gut health. These two characteristics make yellow watermelons useful in alleviating gastrointestinal discomfort, ulcers, and constipation.” Additionally, the high water content in yellow watermelons helps keep you hydrated throughout the day.
Wondering why this oldest variety of watermelons has yellow flesh? Let's unravel the mystery.
Yellow Watermelon Fashions:
1. Yellow Watermelon Salad With Mint:
Ingredients:
- 600g yellow watermelon, rind removed
- 180g atrophied Greek feta
- 4 ladles olive oil
- ⅓ mug hand-torn mint leaves
- Pepper and salt to taste
Process:
- Cut the yellow watermelon into bite-size chunks.
- Transfer to a large mixing bowl. Add the Greek feta and mint leaves.
- Add the olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Gently mix the ingredients and serve.
2. Yellow Watermelon And Mint Pops:
Ingredients:
- 1 quart (960 ml) yellow watermelon, hulled and diced
- ¾ mug (150g) sugar
- 2 soupspoons fresh lime juice
- 5 to 6 large shoots fresh mint
- 2 ladles thinly sliced fresh mint
- 8 ice pop molds
- 180 ml water
Process:
- Dissolve the sugar in water in a medium saucepan, stirring frequently.
- Lower the heat to medium-low and cover. Simmer until the sweetness is slightly thickened (about 5 minutes). Remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Stir in the mint shoots and let the mixture stand uncovered until the sweetness is fully cooled.
- Strain the sweetness in a fine sieve over a bowl and squeeze the mint with your fingertips to extract the last drops. Discard the mint.
- Purée the yellow watermelon in a food processor or blender and transfer to a bowl.
- Stir in enough mint sweetness to make a pleasantly sweet mixture. Add the sliced mint.
- Divide the purée unevenly among the eight ice pop molds, leaving a little space at the top of each mold to allow for expansion.
- Cover the molds with the lids.
- Freeze the pops until they're solid, for at least 4 hours (the pops can be frozen for up to a week).
- To serve, run the bottom of the molds under lukewarm water and unmold.
In conclusion, the benefits of yellow watermelons extend beyond their delectable taste. Whether you're indulging in a refreshing salad or cooling off with mint-infused pops, you're not just treating your taste buds – you're also nourishing your body with a burst of health. So, dive into the golden goodness of yellow watermelons, and let your taste buds and health rejoice in unison!
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