A step-by-step tutorial for breaking down a whole watermelon into perfect, bite-sized pieces, this is the best way to cut a watermelon.

When the weather starts to heat up, nothing is more satisfying than diving into a big bowl of chilled, juicy watermelon. Whether I’m getting ready to host a backyard BBQ, or simply want to prep fresh fruit ahead of time for my boys to grab throughout the week, I’ve learned an easy and fool-proof method for breaking down whole watermelons into perfectly cubed, bite-sized pieces. All you need is a large cutting board, a sharp chef’s knife, and a whole, seedless watermelon for The Best Way to Cut a Watermelon.
The Best Way to Cut a Watermelon

With a sharp knife, start by cutting off each end of the watermelon.

Now that it will sit still on the cutting board, start cutting the rind off at an angle, curving along the edge of the watermelon.

If you follow the natural curve of the watermelon, you’ll see little to no waste of the red flesh.

Next put the watermelon on its side and cut it into thick discs.

Stack the watermelon rounds and cut into strips.

Rotate the rounds 90 degrees, and cut into strips again, creating perfect watermelon cubes.

Now you have perfect cubes for picnics, fruit salads, or a mess-free way to serve watermelon to your kids! There you have it, the best way to cut a watermelon.
Frequently asked questions:
How long will cut watermelon last in the fridge?
Watermelon will last up to 5 days stored in an air-tight container in the refrigerator.
Can you freeze watermelon?
Yes you can! Frozen watermelon is especially great for smoothies.
What type of knife is best for cutting watermelon?
A large, sharp chef’s knife is the best knife to cut a watermelon with.

More Summertime REcipes
- Fruit Kabobs with Ginger Lemon Yogurt Sauce
- Raspberry Greek Yogurt Popsicles
- Greek Salmon Tostadas
- White Wine Ginger Beer Sangria
- Greek Herb Salad with Feta
Eat It, LIke It, Share It!
Did you try this method and like it? The next time you try it, snap a picture and share it to your socials! Tag @thelemonbowl and #thelemonbowl so we can admire and share your dish.

Once you learn my easy method for breaking down a whole watermelon, you’ll never go back to slicing them the old-fashioned way.
Your fork is waiting.

The Best Way to Cut a Watermelon
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 whole seedless watermelon
Instructions
- Slice off the ends of both sides of the watermelon.
- Stand the watermelon up on one side so that it is flat on the cutting board. Using a sharp chef's knife, carefully slice off the rind in vertical strips from top to bottom, rotating the watermelon as you go. Continue until you've removed all of the green rind and white pith.
- Slice the watermelon into rounds.
- Stack the watermelon rounds then cut into vertical strips.
- Rotate the stack and slice again to create bite-sized cubes. Place in a large serving bowl to serve!
I’ve had a watermellon for a week, but hesitated to cut it, as I didn’t know exactly how to! Thank you so much for this tutorial! It is just what I needed! I’ll never be intimidated by a watermellon again! :)