Watermelon

Sweet, juicy watermelons have arrived at our local markets. Doug and I have been enjoying them everyday for a couple of weeks now.

Watermelon was a favorite fruit of mine as a kid. We were usually served it in as a large wedge at the picnic table after bbqing. Today, just as years ago, I like watermelon's sweetness. I also love the beauty of the color of watermelon. Usually, Doug will carve our watermelons into chunks that we can later eat as a snack or add to a salad. Lately, my favorite way to serve watermelon is to juice it.

Watermelon has a high level of natural sugars, but it is loaded with nutritional qualities. In watermelon you will find Calcium, Phosphorus, Iron, Sodium, Potassium, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Folic acid, Magnesium, and Zinc. Watermelon also contains high concentrations of Lycopene It can be enormously helpful in the detoxification process. It is a highly alkalzing food. Watermelon is a high-water-content fruit.

Watermelon became high on our list in spring and summer after visitng the Optimum Health Institute about a decade ago. As part of the detoxing fast and diet, watermelon juice was served. It was here that we learned about acidic/alkaline foods and that watermelon should figure prominently in a nutritional diet. Watermelon is also featured as a Superfood alternative to cancer fighting tomatoes.

Some of my favotire watermelon recipes are:

Watermelon Smoothie

4 cups watermelon chunks
2 cups strawberries or raspberries (I use frozen and omit ice)
1 banana

Blend a bit of watermelon until it liquifies. Add remaining ingredients. Blend until desired consistency is reached. Serve chilled.

News Cafe Salad

5 oz cottage cheese
1 cup watermelon cubes
1/2 c sliced strawberries
1/2 banana sliced
1/4 cup raisings
1/3 cup granola

Place cottage cheese in center of the bottom of a bowl. Surround with watermelon. Add sliced banana and watermelon on top. Top with granola and raisins.

Watermelon Margaritas

1/3 cup Orange liqueur
1/4 cup Triple Sec
3/4 cup Patron or other Tequila
Watermelon
Lime
Sugar

Add liquor to blender. Fill blender with watermelon and liquify. Chill beverage or frost glasses. Wet rim of glasses with water or lime slice. Dip glasses in sugar. Serve with squeeze of lime and lime wedge.