If your family enjoys fruit salads or sweet summer treats, you should probably add watermelon to the grocery list. Dubbed “nature’s candy,” watermelon hits the trifecta: nutritionists, dietitians and children adore it. Watermelon is said to boost self-esteem and jumpstart the immune system through at least three different vitamins. I mean, watermelon is absolutely PERFECT picnic food.
When I was pregnant with my first child, it was a rough time for my appetite. In the first trimester, I visited the States and the neighbourhood grocery store stocks freshly cut watermelon. Needless to say, I ate a pound a day. It was great to restore electrolytes and keep me hydrated when food and I were on the outs.
Vitamin A supports healthy eyes and stimulates the formation of white blood cells, which fight infection. The juicy fruit helps your immune system produce antibodies via Vitamin B6. And Vitamin C protects the body from harmful free radicals.
Try out one or both of these fresh watermelon recipes for summer. They’re simple, kid-friendly and perfect for barbecues, picnics, or just lunch. For more delicious watermelon recipes, visit www.watermelon.org.
Watermelon Waldorf Salad
2 cups cubed watermelon (about 1/2-inch cubes)
1/2 cup sliced celery
1/2 cup seedless red grape halves
Dash of salt
1/4 cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons sliced almonds, toasted
Stir together watermelon, celery and grapes in bowl. Just before serving, stir salt into yogurt for dressing. You may want to add a little water to lighten the thickness. Pour mixture over fruit and stir until coated. Sprinkle with almonds.
Watermelon Slice Popsicles
Watermelon slices, cut into triangular wedge shapes (about 1/2 – 1 inch thick)
Popsicle sticks
For an easy, fun take on the yummy watermelon slice, insert a popsicle stick into the rind! It makes clean-up a breeze — especially for kids. You can also freeze the slice popsicles for a refreshingly chilly treat.
