Introduction
Watermelons are incredibly popular summer fruits that not only taste delicious but also offer numerous health benefits. When eaten in moderation, watermelons can help reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, boost hydration, and even improve skin health. But have you ever stopped to think about all the different ways you can eat watermelon?
In this article, we’ll explore some of the most creative and nutritious ways to enjoy watermelon. From slicing it up and making watermelon juice, to adding it to salads and salsas, to grilling and freezing it — there are so many clever ways to incorporate watermelon into your meals. Keep reading to learn more!
Slice it Up
One of the simplest and most common ways to enjoy watermelon is by slicing it up and eating it as-is. This method is easy and takes no time at all. To slice a watermelon, start by cutting off both ends and then slicing the watermelon in half. Next, cut each half into slices or cubes. You can also scoop out the seeds before serving if you’d like.
Slicing watermelon is a great way to get the maximum amount of nutrients from the fruit. According to a study published in the Nutrients journal, fresh watermelon has the highest total antioxidant activity when compared to other forms, such as canned and frozen. “The results of this study suggest that fresh watermelon may be the most suitable form to consume in order to obtain the highest total antioxidant capacity,” the authors concluded.
Make Watermelon Juice
Another tasty and refreshing way to enjoy watermelon is by making watermelon juice. To make watermelon juice, simply blend watermelon chunks with a bit of lemon juice and honey (optional). You can also add other fruits and vegetables, such as apples, cucumbers and mint leaves, to create a delicious and nutrient-rich beverage.
Drinking watermelon juice is a great way to get the most out of the fruit, as it helps retain all the vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Plus, it’s an excellent source of hydration and electrolytes, which can help replenish the body after exercise. A study conducted by the University of Aberdeen found that watermelon juice was more effective than plain water at rehydrating athletes after exercising.
Add it to Salads & Salsas
Adding watermelon to salads and salsas is another delicious way to enjoy the fruit. Watermelon adds a sweet and juicy flavor to any dish, plus it’s a great source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Try adding diced watermelon to spinach salads, quinoa salads, or black bean and corn salsas. You can also top tacos with diced watermelon for a flavorful twist.
Not only does watermelon add flavor and texture to salads and salsas, but it can also help improve digestion. According to a study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology, watermelon contains compounds that help break down proteins, which can aid in digestion. “Watermelon could be used as an ingredient to enhance the nutritional quality and digestibility of food products,” the authors concluded.
Grill It
Grilling watermelon is a fun and creative way to enjoy the fruit. To grill watermelon, start by cutting it into thick slices and brushing it with olive oil. Then, place the slices on a preheated grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side. Once the watermelon is grilled, you can top it with feta cheese, basil or balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
Grilled watermelon is a great way to get the most out of the fruit, as it helps retain all the vitamins and minerals. Plus, it’s packed with antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and protect against disease. A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that grilling watermelon increased its antioxidant content by up to 20%.
Freeze It
Freezing watermelon is a great way to enjoy the fruit during the warmer months. To freeze watermelon, start by cutting it into cubes or slices and then transferring them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the baking sheet in the freezer and let the watermelon freeze overnight. Once frozen, you can store the watermelon in an airtight container and enjoy it as a cool and refreshing snack.
Freezing watermelon is a great way to get the most out of the fruit, as it helps retain all the vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Plus, it’s an excellent source of hydration and electrolytes, which can help keep you feeling energized and refreshed. A study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that frozen watermelon had higher levels of vitamin C than fresh watermelon.
Make Popsicles
Making watermelon popsicles is a fun and easy way to enjoy the fruit. To make watermelon popsicles, start by blending watermelon chunks with a bit of lemon juice and honey. Then, pour the mixture into popsicle molds and freeze overnight. Once frozen, you can enjoy the popsicles as a refreshing and nutritious summer treat.
Making watermelon popsicles is a great way to get the most out of the fruit, as it helps retain all the vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Plus, it’s an excellent source of hydration and electrolytes, which can help keep you feeling cool and energized during the hot summer months. A study published in the International Journal of Food Science and Nutrition found that watermelon popsicles were more effective at rehydrating athletes than plain water.
Conclusion
Eating watermelon is a great way to stay healthy and hydrated during the summer months. From slicing it up and making watermelon juice, to adding it to salads and salsas, to grilling and freezing it — there are so many creative and nutritious ways to enjoy watermelon. We hope this article has inspired you to get creative in the kitchen and try out some of these delicious watermelon recipes!
With its sweet and juicy flavor and numerous health benefits, watermelon is a summertime staple that everyone should enjoy.
(Note: Is this article not meeting your expectations? Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)