Not just a sweet treat, the colossal watermelon provides healthy hydration, antioxidants, and vitamins A and C. Time for a refresher course on nature’s thirst-quencher:

• How to pick the best. Find a melon that feels heavy for its size. Then look for a yellowish spot that shows it ripened in the sun. If you grow your own, examine the curly tendril next to the stem. When it begins to turn brown, it’s ready to pick.

• Choose sweet or savory. Go beyond the slice by pureeing chunks and freezing them in popsicle molds. Paired with spicy jalapenos, substitute tomatoes for watermelon in gazpacho and salsa. Or make a delectable sweet/salty match — add cubes to a salad with feta cheese.

• Leave no rind behind. Use the rind for old-fashioned pickles or garlicky Thai-style chutney could become a new favorite.

How will you add watermelon to the menu this week?