What’s the deal with yellow watermelon?

By Bashiera Parker, 21 November 2025

Let’s flesh out the truth about yellow watermelon. Everything you need to know – and two recipes worth trying.

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How does yellow watermelon get it’s bright, sunshine colour? What does it taste like? And is it even real? All valid questions, all worth knowing the answers to. Let’s find out more about these golden gems.

Here’s what we know:

  • Yellow watermelons, scientifically known as Citrullus lanatus, get their distinct, ususual colour from beta-carotene – the same compound that makes carrots orange – instead of lycopene, which gives traditional watermelons their red colour.
  • Yellow watermelons are not that unusual. In fact, there are several varieties, each with their own unique characteristics, such as different rind colours, varying sweetness and sizes, with some being seedless and others larger than others.
  • Expect crisp, juicy fruit, similar to that first bite of a red watermelon. Yellow watermelons are described as having honey-like tropical notes, and are often thought to be much sweeter than their red counterparts.

So yes, yellow watermelons are very much the real deal and they lend themselves particularly well to a variety of fresh summer dishes. Don't let anyone tell you these golden beauties are fake – here are two recipes to prove it.

1. Yellow watermelon-and-grilled halloumi salad

Yellow watermelon and grilled halloumi create a sweet and salty contrast, while spicy harissa ties it all together. Add cool cucumber, ripe tomatoes and lightly pickled red onions, and you have summer on a plate!

yellow watermelon and halloumi salad

Yellow watermelon-and-grilled halloumi salad

2. Watermelonade

This yellow watermelon, lemon, ginger and mint cooler is everything you want on a warm day: bright, juicy and refreshingly zesty. Serve as is or with bubbly for a cheeky cocktail twist.

yellow watermelon lemonade

Watermelonade

Photography and videography: Sadiqah Assur-Ismail

Recipes and production: Abigail Donnelly

Food assistant: Bianca Jones

Find more watermelon recipes here

Bright, sweet and refreshingly crisp, Woolworths' yellow watermelon is a true summer standout. With its vibrant yellow flesh and naturally sweet flavour, this unique fruit offers a delightful twist on traditional watermelon. Thanks to Woolworths' unbroken cold chain, you can enjoy yellow watermelon at its peak, ensuring that it stays juicy and delicious even after you bring it home. This watermelon is cultivated in ideal conditions to deliver exceptional quality and flavour. Woolworths is committed to sustainability and prioritises environmentally friendly farming practices, so you can indulge in this summer favourite knowing it's better for both you and the planet.

Shop at Woolworths 

Bashiera Parker

Article by Bashiera Parker

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