More to Know About Watermelon

When it becomes summertime in Georgia, one of the first things you think of is watermelon!  Not only is it the perfect treat for picnics, July 4th backyard celebrations, athletic events, but anytime you have a craving for something sweet, juicy and delicious! Continue to read on to discover why it's so good for you and how it offers health, value and versatility.

Watermelons are mostly water— about 92 percent — making it a natural hydrator!  This refreshing fruit is soaked with nutrients.  Each juicy bite has significant levels of vitamins A, B6 and C, lots of lycopene, antioxidants and amino acids. There's even a modest amount of potassium.  Every part of a watermelon is edible, even the seeds and rinds. Giving you even more to love and leaving no waste!

One of the most frequently asked questions is how do I pick the best watermelon?  Keep these tips in mind when sorting through the bin at the grocery store to find the sweetest, tastiest watermelon:

Look:  The watermelon should be evenly shaped and there should be no cuts or bruises.
Lift:  Watermelon contains 92% water and should be heavy for its size.  Since watermelon is mostly water, that's where the heaviness comes from.
Turn:  The bottom of the watermelon called the "ground spot" where it matured in the sun should have a creamy yellow spot.

On your next trip to the grocery store, be sure to pick up a Georgia watermelon.  Show your support of our farmers and be sure to check the label to ensure you are buying locally grown! 

There are so many ways you can make the most out of watermelon!  Try blending up a cocktail, throwing it on the grill, toss it in a salad, get festive and make salsa or even turn it into pickles!  Just get creative with this summertime obsession.  Which one of these refreshing, simple and delicious watermelon recipes inspires you?

Refreshing Recipes for Hot Summer Days

Watermelon Mint Lemonade Sorbet

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 cups watermelon
• 1/2 cup mint leaves

Instructions

1. In a high-speed blender, blend the lemon juice, watermelon, and sugar until the sugar has completely dissolved.
2. Take the mint leaves on the stem and slap them into your palm.
3. Place the whole stem (or a tea bag) into the blended mix and place in refrigerator for two hours.
4. Take mint leaves out of the mixture and discard.
5. Continue to make the sorbet according to your ice cream makers directions.
6. When it is complete, store in a container in the freezer.

Recipe from JaMonkey https://jamonkey.com/watermelon-mint-lemonade-sorbet/

Watermelon Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Ingredients

• 1 large seedless watermelon, rind removed and cubed
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• ¾ c. fresh mint, chopped
• 8 oz. Feta cheese, crumbled
• ¼ c. balsamic vinegar
• ½ c. olive oil
• 1 tbsp. Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp. honey
• 1 clove of garlic, minced
• salt and pepper, to taste

Place watermelon, onion, mint and feta cheese in large bowl. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together vinegar, olive oil, mustard, honey and garlic. Season with salt and pepper.

Pour dressing over salad and gently toss to combine.  Serve immediately.

Recipe from Eating with Erica    https://eatingwitherica.com/2017/08/re-grand-opening-fresh-market/

Watermelon Strawberry Smoothie Bowl

Ingredients

• 4 cups cubed Georgia watermelon, divided
• 3 cups frozen strawberries
• 2 ripe bananas, peeled and frozen
• 1/4 cup preferred milk (we used coconut milk)
• 1/2 cup chocolate granola
• 1/4 cup toasted, flaked coconut

Instructions 

1. Combine 2 cups watermelon, strawberries, banana and coconut milk in blender and blend, scraping down the sides as needed until smooth, about 1 minute.
2. Divide smoothie between two bowls and top with remaining watermelon, granola and coconut. Serve immediately and enjoy.

TIP: IF USING SMALL OR PERSONALIZED-SIZED WATERMELONS, SUBSTITUTE WATERMELON RIND BOWLS FOR SERVING BOWLS! SIMPLY CUT SMALL WATERMELON IN HALF, AND REMOVE THE FLESH (FLESH CAN BE USED IN SMOOTHIES).

Recipe from Watermelon Strawberry Smoothie Bowl - Watermelon Board

Grilled Watermelon Pizza

Ingredients

Watermelon
1 tsp honey per slice 
Reduced balsamic vinegar
Fresh mozzarella
Olive oil
Prosciutto ham

Cut into pizza triangles; brush each with honey to help with caramelization during grilling.  Grill for approximately 2 minutes per side or until it has grill marks.  Drizzle each slice with reduced balsamic vinegar followed by olive oil.  Place a slice of mozzarella on each slice and top with prosciutto ham.  Enjoy!

Recipe from Divine Lifestyle    https://www.facebook.com/watch/live/?v=1694952387208936&ref=watch_permalink