Seasonal Food of the Week: Watermelon
The Basics
Watermelon is in the peak of its season although it is now available in many areas throughout the year. However, this week we celebrate watermelon as one of the World's Healthiest Foods. No other fruit says summer better than sweet, crunchy, refreshing watermelon. Watermelon is a member of the Cucurbitaceae family along with cantaloupe, squash and pumpkin. Although watermelon can be found in many areas throughout the year, now is the time to enjoy the best tasting watermelon of the year.
Nutritional Value
Watermelon is a rich source of heart-healthy nutrients including vitamin C and the carotenoid phytonutrient, lycopene, which provides watermelon with its beautiful red color as well as many health-promoting benefits. In fact, watermelon contains more lycopene than an equivalent amount of tomatoes, which are renowned for this important nutrient. A one cup-serving of watermelon contains 24% of the daily value (DV) for vitamin C, 11% DV for vitamin A and 11% DV for vitamin B6 . all for only 49 calories!
Health Benefits
The lycopene in watermelon also helps prevent prostate cancer in men. The concentration of antioxidants found in watermelon helps control the inflammation that contributes to conditions like asthma, atherosclerosis, diabetes, colon cancer, and arthritis.
As with all foods, I recommend selecting organic varieties whenever possible. This way you assure that you are getting a fruit packed with as many vitamins and nutrients as possible.
Recipe of the Week!
Watermelon Fire & Ice Salsa
3 cups seeded and chopped watermelon
2 tbs. chopped cilantro
1 to 2 tbs. (2 to 3 medium) Jalapeno peppers (seeded and chopped)
1/2 cup green peppers
2 tbs. lime juice
1 tbs. chopped green onion
1/2 tbs. garlic salt
Combine all ingredients; mix well. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour. Makes 3 cups. Serving tips: Serve with corn or potato chips, or a great topping for Teriyaki fish or chicken.
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