Fresh watermelon is in season! Radiating bright colors, this fruit packs an impressive dose of lycopene, an antioxidant linked to decreased risk of cancer, heart disease, and age-related eye disorders.
Each slice offers an additional hydration boost, containing about 91% water. Easy to include at your next summer picnic, everyone can enjoy this lightly sweet, nostalgic fruit on its own or in a creative recipe. Preparation options are endless from watermelon salad to grilled kebabs! See one of our favorite local recipes ahead.
Marleah Payne's Watermelon Salad
1
servingIngredients
- For the dressing:
- 2 Tbsp.
extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 Tbsp.
fresh lime juice
- ½
garlic clove, minced
- ¼ tsp.
kosher sea salt, finely ground
- For the salad:
- 6 cups
watermelon, cubed
- 1 ½ cup
English cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup
red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup
feta cheese, crumbled
- 1
medium avocado, cubed
- ½ cup
chopped mint and/or basil leaves
Directions
To make the dressing, add all ingredients to a small bowl and whisk until combined.
For the salad, place the watermelon, cucumber, and red onion in a large bowl.
Drizzle the fruits and vegetables with the dressing and gently toss the salad. Top the salad with feta cheese, avocado cubes, and mint and/or basil.
Refrigerate until ready to serve. I would recommend consuming within one day after preparing for best quality and freshness. Enjoy!
“Watermelon is an excellent source of the carotenoid lycopene, which is what gives it the bright pink color along with multiple health benefits. In addition, watermelon is a great source of fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals including vitamin C, magnesium, and potassium.”
Marleah Payne, MS, RDN, LDN