Americans love watermelons; we eat over 17 pounds a year. We think of watermelon as a favorite fruit, but it is really a vegetable that contains high amounts of a cancer fighting antioxidant called lycopene. It's a great thirst quencher too as it is over 90% water! Watermelon also contains vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, vitamins A, B1 and B6.
I like getting creative with watermelons and one of my favorite ways to enjoy is to make a watermelon salsa with sweet onions, jalapeno chiles, cilantro, garlic, a little brown sugar and salt. It's a yummy way to get your antioxidants and your thirst quenched all at the same time! Look for watermelons with a firm flesh and a definite color difference on one side. This lighter coloring is where the watermelon has been resting on the ground – its underbelly. If it does not have this lighter color on one side, then it may have been harvested prematurely, which leaves the melon lacking in flavor. The seeds and the rind are also edible but most kids love a seedless watermelon. Enjoy this summertime favorite while it is in season now!
...back to fit foods article list
