Summertime Delight

     Yesterday I extolled the virtues of the watermelon.  It is perhaps the summer fruit of choice for millions of children as they enjoy is sweet, juicy goodness.  But it is also a healthy choice for adults as well, providing lots of vitamins and minerals with the added advantage of being low in calories.

     So today I will post my favorite salad recipe that includes watermelon cubes.  But before I do, here is a tip to try to prevent the salad from becoming watery.  That is a common problem when incorporating watermelon into any recipe.  After all, it is 92% water!  After cubing the watermelon that has been cut from the rind, place the cubes on a double sheet of paper towels for about 15 minutes.  That way the water can drain out of the melon cubes and onto the paper towel.  And with this recipe in particular do the same for the slices of cucumber.  It makes for a much better result.

WATERMELON - CUCUMBER SALAD



1/2 red onion, thinly sliced                                  1/4 cup EVOO
4 cups cubed watermelon                                    juice of 1/2 lemon
1 seeded and sliced cucumber                             chopped cashews
fresh mint leaves, thinly sliced                           feta cheese, crumbled

     Soak the red onion slices in cold water.  Pat dry the diced watermelon and cucumber slices and place in a large bowl.  Toss with a handful of the mint.
     Drain the onion, squeeze dry and add to the salad along with the chopped cashews.  Add the EVOO and the lemon juice, season with a pinch of salt and toss.  Top with the crumbled cheese and serve.

Serves 4