Summer Days are Perfect to Celebrate Watermelon

By Sharon Kurtz | Above photo by pasja1000 ~

Watermelon is the quintessential summer fruit. It’s a thirst-quenching, mouthwatering, sweet treat, loved the world over. What could be more satisfying on a hot summer’s day? 

August 3rd is “National Watermelon Day,” a non-official American holiday where people can enjoy this sensational summer staple. Let’s celebrate this ancient fruit in a feast of juicy deliciousness.

A Superfood

Many health specialists inform us that Watermelon is a good source of Vitamins A and C. Some studies have shown that the antioxidants in Watermelon – carotenoid and lycopene – can reduce the risk of some types of cancer.

Watermelon Facts 

• Did you know there are more than 1,200 varieties of watermelon in the world? They range from pink to orange, large to small, with or without seeds.
• Watermelon is both a fruit and a vegetable. Melons cross all produce boundaries. They are a fruit (a berry, to be precise) because they contain seeds to create more plants. But they are also a vegetable because they are planted from seeds and harvested like other vegetables. Watermelons are members of the gourd family, meaning they’re related to squash, cucumbers, and pumpkins.
• You can eat tons of watermelon—completely guilt-free! On a diet? Not to worry, Watermelons are 92% water, so you can not only dig in without feeling guilty—while keeping hydrated on a hot summer day.

Here’s a Watermelon tip for you: It’s best to buy it whole, rather than pre-cut. But then what do you do with all that Watermelon?  Cut it up in cubes and eat it chilled, make watermelon smoothies, or create delicious summertime salads.

This Watermelon Feta Salad is my favorite because it is so fresh and easy to make.The wonderful concoction of watermelon, herbs, feta cheese, and red onion is surprisingly perfect, blending sweet and savory in one delicious bite!  

The salty citrus of the dressing brings out the sweet flavor of Watermelon and the creaminess of the feta. The colorful combination looks just beautiful on the table for a backyard cookout, a potluck, or even a Sunday brunch! 

Watermelon Feta Salad
(serves 4)

Ingredients:

• One-quarter Watermelon, cubed & chilled (about 4 cups)
• 8 ounces Feta Cheese, crumbled
• ½ cup chopped fresh mint
• ½ cup chopped fresh Basil
  
• One small red onion, sliced thinly

Dressing:

• 2 Tbsp. – Balsamic Vinegar
• 2 Tbsp. Olive Oil
• Juice of two limes, fresh-squeezed.
• Salt & fresh ground pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Place watermelon, crumbled feta, and sliced onion in a large bowl.
2. Pour dressing and chopped herbs over the Watermelon and toss

Enjoy the flavors of this luscious salad as they burst in your mouth.

ABOUT THE CHEF

Sharon Kurtz is a freelance writer who shares her passion for travel and food by exploring unique customs, cultures and flavors from around the globe. She lives in Dallas, Texas with her husband and three dogs, but her carry-on is always packed ready for the next adventure. Follow her travels on https://instagram.com/shar_kurtz, https://facebook.com/sharonkkurtz read more articles on her website Sharonkkurtz.com