All watermelons consist of 80 to 90% water, they are low in calories, and contain an airy flesh that is very juicy and sweet to the taste.

Watermelon is most often eaten on its own. It is sliced, quartered, cubed, or scooped to form balls. It is added to fruit salad and used to make jam, sorbet, juice, salsa, and sometimes wine. Watermelon that has not yet ripened is used in the same way as summer squash. The watermelon rind can be candied or marinated.

Because it contains vitamin C and potassium, watermelon is thought to be a great detoxifier, diuretic, and cleansing agent.