Recipe for Summer - Zesty Watermelon

During the heat of summer, it is important to stay cool and hydrated.  In addition to drinking lots of water to quench our thirst, we can eat raw fruits and vegetables that have a high water content such as melons, cucumbers, and tomatoes.  So, as we celebrate summer time and have celebrations with family and friends in the heat of summer, enjoy this variation on one of summer's traditional foods!


Among the world's healthiest foods, watermelon, like tomatoes, contains lycopene, and antioxidant known for its cancer-preventing properties.  Watermelon provides energy not only because it keeps us hydrated but also because it is a great source of B vitamins.  Conditions caused in the body by inflammation, such as asthma and arthritis, may be eliminated by eating certain foods including watermelon and ginger, both included in this recipe.


Food for Thought: According to many philosophies of food combining, melons (watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew) should always be eaten alone or 15-20 minutes prior to the rest of the meal (to assure complete digestion).  For more information, see Raw Food Living and as well as this article on Ayurveda.


Recipe for Summer - Zesty Watermelon

In preparing this easy, simple raw food recipe, consider how many servings you wish to prepare and adjust the portions of the ingredients accordingly.  The recipe below is for a small melon or perhaps half of a medium-size one. 


I've read that when choosing a watermelon, pick one with a large light yellowish spot.  This spot indicates how long the melon has been on the ground ripening.

Whisk together these ingredients:

• raw honey (2 TB)
• ginger powder (between 1/2 tsp and 1 tsp, according to how zesty you want it)
• fresh orange, lemon, or lime juice (2 TB)
• dash of sea salt

Drizzle over fresh watermelon cut into cubes (or carved with a melon-baller).  


Garnish with fresh mint or basil.


Eat and feel refreshed.