It’s summer and that means it’s watermelon season. There are many reasons to enjoy this fruit beyond its taste and the hydration it provides. Watermelon is a good source of vitamin C, along with the vitamins A, B1, B5, and B6 and it also includes the minerals potassium, magnesium, and copper. Watermelon is also an excellent source of the carotenoid lycopene, which has been found to be protective against certain types of cancer and helps reduce LDL cholesterol. With all this nutritional goodness, what’s not to love about this fruit?
Here is another way to enjoy watermelon this season, in a salad!
Watermelon, Cucumber and Tomato Salad
– 1 small watermelon, peeled & cut into chunks
– 2 cups of diced cucumber, hothouse cucumber works best
– 2 cups heirloom tomatoes (various colors and sizes), cut up
– 10 mint or basil leaves
– 2 tablespoons red onion, sliced very thin
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white balsamic vinegar
– 1/2 cup crumbled Feta cheese, optional
Place the diced watermelon, cumber and tomato on a serving platter and mix together gently. Sprinkle with mint/basil leaves and sliced red onion. Combine the olive oil and vinegar and drizzle over the fruit and vegetables. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top, if using and serve.
Content submitted by Janyce Gately – MS, RD, LDN, CHWC
Take the guesswork out of healthy eating by working with a registered dietitian. Set realistic goals, create an action plan, get started off on the right foot and receive guidance along the way. Reach out to the dietitians at Waverley Oaks to learn more at nutrition@waverleyoaks.com.