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My watermelon memories go way back… Thumping and selecting the perfect melon at the local produce stand, chilling it to perfection, slicing a big wedge and devouring the dark, juicy fruit, and wiping the excess juice from my chin with the sleeve of my t-shirt. And of course, who could resist the seed-spitting contest? Talk about childhood fun! Health Benefits Most people agree that eating watermelon is one of the best summer activities. However, you may be surprised to learn that such a sweet treat is equally beneficial to your health. The antioxidant lycopene is a plant chemical that gives certain foods (watermelon, tomatoes, red grapefruit, and guava) their red color. Part of the large class of plant compounds called carotenoids, which help protect and preserve body cells from oxidation and damage, lycopene may reduce one’s risk of prostate cancer and protect against heart disease. Watermelon Selection & Storage Follow these 3 easy steps to choose a perfect melon every time:
Watermelon-Strawberry Smoothie 1 – 1 ½ cups seeded watermelon, diced 1 cup lemon sorbet or sherbet 8 frozen whole strawberries 1 tablespoon lemon juice Place all ingredients in a blender. Blend until smooth. Makes two 1-cup servings. Watermelon Parfait 1/2 cup low fat granola 1 cup seedless watermelon, cut into small chunks 1 6-ounce carton of low fat vanilla yogurt 1 banana, sliced Almond slivers In 2 tall glasses, layer the following: Layer 1: granola Layer 2: watermelon Layer 3: yogurt Layer 4: banana slices Repeat Layers 1-4. Garnish with slivered almonds. Makes two servings. |
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