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Watermelon - health advantages and recipes for watermelon dishes

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Watermelon - health advantages and recipes for watermelon dishes

The watermelon is one of those fruits whose absence is hard to imagine on a hot summer day. It wonderfully refreshes and quenches thirst, as it consists of 90% water. It is also a source of many valuable minerals and antioxidants. Furthermore, it can be used in many light dishes, not just sweet ones.

Table of Contents

1. Watermelon – health-promoting properties

Although it is commonly said to contain not too many of its ingredients in the world, it is also grown in many other parts of the world. It usually has a pinkish texture that surrounds the hard, green skin, but it can also be found in the yellow version. It is mostly composed of water, so it is low in calories (100 pounds provides only 30 calories) and delivers greatly when salt is consumed. Though it is usually said to not contain too many components in the health of the body, this is also not true. The components found in watermelon, such as lycopene, vitamin C, and β-carotene, contribute to its health benefits. It is also a good source of minerals like potassium and magnesium. It contains vitamins of the B group, particularly B1 and B6, which support the nervous system. The characteristic color of the fruit and most of its health benefits are caused by carotenoids, especially lycopene.

2. The recipe for a classic cucumber, watermelon, and feta salad

The combination of cucumber, watermelon, and feta with spicy onions is one of the classics of summer salads. It is worth trying a refreshed version with avocado, which provides many healthy fats. Ingredients (for 4 servings): – watermelon – 2 large slices (600 g), – fresh cucumbers – piece (180 g), – red onions – piece (100 g), – feta – ¼ cubes (55 g), – avocado – piece (140 g), – mint – handful (30 g). Sauce: – olive oil – 2 tbsp (30 g), – lemon juice – 3 tsp (15 g), – garlic – clove (5 g), – salt, pepper to taste.

3. Grilled Cantaloupe Recipe

Cantaloupe is a fantastic option for grilling, and after heat treatment, it delights with an even sweeter taste. In combination with a spicy sauce, it is a superb choice as a light dinner. Ingredients (in 6 servings): - canned corn - small can (170 g), - onion - whole (100 g), - cantaloupe - 6 triangular pieces (1500 g), - olive oil - a small amount to spread on the grill pan (about 10 g), - feta cheese - 1/4 cube (55 g), - avocado - whole (140 g), - fresh basil leaves - bunch (30 g), - lemon juice - tablespoon (15 g), - chili pepper - whole (5 g).

4. The recipe for watermelon dip

The watermelon combines exceptionally well with both fruits and vegetables, as evidenced by this recipe. The dip made from watermelon pairs well with tacos and grilled salmon. Ingredients (for 6 servings): - mango - 2 pieces (560 g), - red bell pepper - 1/2 piece (150 g), - yellow bell pepper - 1/2 piece (150 g), - peeled watermelon - 3 cups (450 g), - red onion - 1 piece (100 g), - coriander leaves - a bunch (40 g). Condiment: - olive oil - 1 tablespoon (15 g), - rice vinegar - 2 tablespoons (30 g), - lemon juice - 1 piece (30 g), - salt, pepper to taste. Preparation1. Finely chop the fruits and vegetables and place them in a bowl. 2. Finely chop the coriander (you can also use parsley root). 3. In a bowl, mix the olive oil, rice vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. 4. Dip goes well with tacos, grilled meat, or fish.
Source

Maoto M.M., Beswa D., Jideani A.I.O., Watermelon as a potential fruit snack, „International Journal Of Food Properties” 2019, 22(1), 355–370.
Naz A. et al., Watermelon lycopene and allied health claims, „EXCLI Journal” 2014, 13, 650–660.
Perkins-Veazie P., Davis A., Collins J.K., Watermelon: From dessert to functional food, „Israel Journal of Plant Sciences” 2012, 60(4), 395–402.