Frittata being cooked in a pan, showcasing the watermelon rind and mint

Frittatas

xigua (watermelon) rind and mint frittata

By:

Savory Touch

Published:

16 Aug 2025
Frittata being cooked in a pan, showcasing the watermelon rind and mint
Have you ever looked at a watermelon rind and thought, "What a waste!" I know I have. We usually toss it without a second thought, right? Well, prepare to have your mind blown! This recipe for Xigua (Watermelon) Rind and Mint Frittata is not just a way to use up leftovers; it's a culinary adventure. One day, during the summer, I was reading about different dishes in China and this one caught my eye. I had to try it out. It’s one of those dishes that makes you rethink everything you know about food. Seriously! The first time I made it, my husband was a little skeptical, but after one bite, he was hooked. This frittata is surprisingly delicious. Trust me on this one. Who knew that the humble watermelon rind could become the star of a savory dish? It’s thrifty, sustainable, and incredibly flavorful. The mild, slightly sweet rind pairs beautifully with fresh mint and savory Parmesan cheese.
Close-up shot of Xigua (Watermelon) Rind and Mint Frittata in a frying pan
What makes this frittata so special is the unexpected combination of flavors and textures. The watermelon rind, when cooked, becomes tender and slightly translucent, offering a delicate sweetness that’s perfectly balanced by the coolness of the mint and the saltiness of the Parmesan. And don't forget the onion and garlic, which add a savory depth to the dish. It’s a symphony of tastes that dance on your tongue! I like to serve this frittata for brunch, lunch, or even a light dinner. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and always a conversation starter. People are always intrigued by the idea of using watermelon rind, and they’re even more impressed when they taste it. Plus, it’s a great way to reduce food waste and get creative in the kitchen. So, next time you’re enjoying a juicy slice of watermelon, don’t throw away the rind! Save it and turn it into something amazing. You won’t regret it!
A slice of Xigua (Watermelon) Rind and Mint Frittata on a plate, garnished with mint

Required Equipments

  • Large Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Frying Pan (Omelette Pan)
  • Spatula
  • Cutting Board
  • Chef's Knife

Xigua (Watermelon) Rind and Mint Frittata: Frequently Asked Questions

Xigua (Watermelon) Rind and Mint Frittata

Transform your leftover watermelon rind into a delicious and sustainable dish with this Xigua (Watermelon) Rind and Mint Frittata recipe. This creative frittata combines the mild sweetness of watermelon rind with fresh mint and Parmesan cheese for a surprisingly flavorful and thrifty meal. It's so so good. It's savory and nutritious, not to mention zero waste!

⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 4 servings

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time:

🍽 Ingredients

📖 Instructions

  1. Prepare the Watermelon Rind: Using a sharp knife or vegetable peeler, carefully remove all the pink flesh and the tough green outer layer from the watermelon rind. You should be left with only the white part. Dice the rind into small, bite-sized pieces about 1/4-inch in size. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture.
  2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a medium-sized frying pan or omelette pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
  3. Add Watermelon Rind: Add the diced watermelon rind to the pan with the onions and garlic. Sauté for about 8-10 minutes, or until the rind becomes slightly tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. The rind should start to look a bit translucent around the edges.
  4. Whisk Eggs and Cheese: While the watermelon rind is sautéing, crack the eggs into a large bowl. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh mint, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well combined and slightly frothy. This ensures a light and fluffy frittata.
  5. Combine Ingredients: Pour the egg mixture over the sautéed watermelon rind, onions, and garlic in the frying pan. Use a spatula to gently distribute the ingredients evenly throughout the egg mixture. This will ensure every bite is flavorful.
  6. Cook the Frittata: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the frittata cook slowly for about 15-20 minutes, or until the eggs are mostly set but the top is still slightly moist. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. The edges should be pulling away from the sides of the pan.
  7. Finish Under the Broiler (Optional): If you want a golden-brown top, you can finish the frittata under a preheated broiler for 1-2 minutes. Watch it closely to prevent burning! If you don't have a broiler or prefer not to use it, you can skip this step and simply cook the frittata until fully set on the stovetop.
  8. Serve: Gently slide the frittata out of the pan onto a cutting board. Cut it into wedges and serve warm. Garnish with extra fresh mint, if desired. This frittata is delicious on its own or served with a side salad for a light and refreshing meal.

📝 Notes

  • For an extra touch of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture.
  • If you don't have fresh mint, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried mint, but fresh is always better!
  • Ensure the watermelon rind is properly peeled to avoid any bitterness.

🍎 Nutrition

Calories: 220 kcal

Protein: 13 g

Fat: 15 g

Carbohydrates: 8 g

Fiber: 1 g

Calcium: 150 mg

Waste nothing, want nothing. A clever cook can transform the simplest ingredients into something extraordinary. Who knew watermelon rind could taste this good?

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