Summer is here, which means it is officially watermelon season! Sweet, crisp, and incredibly refreshing, watermelon is a favorite warm-weather fruit for good reason.
Beyond its delicious flavor and high water content, watermelon also delivers a variety of nutrients. It is a good source of vitamin C and contains vitamins A, B1, B5, and B6, along with minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and copper. Watermelon is also rich in lycopene, a naturally occurring antioxidant that gives the fruit its signature red color and has been studied for its potential health benefits.
Whether you are enjoying it by the slice after a workout, bringing it to a cookout, or adding it to a seasonal recipe, watermelon is an easy way to add more color and freshness to your plate.
Try this light and flavorful watermelon, cucumber, and tomato salad at your next summer gathering.
Watermelon, Cucumber and Tomato Salad
Ingredients
- 1 small watermelon, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 cups diced cucumber, preferably hothouse cucumber
- 2 cups heirloom tomatoes, assorted colors and sizes, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 10 fresh mint or basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons red onion, very thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon white balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese, optional
Directions
- Arrange the diced watermelon, cucumber, and tomatoes on a serving platter or in a large bowl. Gently toss to combine.
- Sprinkle the salad with fresh mint or basil leaves and the thinly sliced red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and white balsamic vinegar. Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese, if desired, and serve immediately.
This colorful salad is sweet, savory, and refreshing, making it a perfect side dish for cookouts, picnics, pool days, or easy summer dinners. Enjoy!
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.