Pound for pound, Americans eat more watermelon than any other melon.
Yes, there are those who do not like dealing with the seeds. And others may avoid the chore of cutting up the large, juicy melon.
But there is no denying that watermelon is a beloved summertime staple.
It’s also very versatile and healthy.
To celebrate the Independence Day holiday, I have will feature seven days of blogs with everything you need to know about watermelon – from carving tips to health benefits and, of course, lots of recipes.
Let’s start with tips to picking a good watermelon, courtesy of the National Watermelon Promotion Board.
1. Look the watermelon over.
You are looking for a firm, symmetrical watermelon that is free from bruises, cuts or dents.
2. Lift it up.
The watermelon should be heavy for its size. Watermelon is 92 percent water.
3. Turn it over.
The underside of the watermelon should have a creamy yellow spot from where it sat on the ground and ripened in the sun.
Here’s two recipes for cool summertime treats...
Watermelon Strawberry Shake and Frozen Smoothie PopsMakes 4
Strawberry Shake
1 container (8 ounces) lemon nonfat yogurt
2 cups cubed, seeded watermelon
1 pint fresh strawberries, cleaned and hulled
1 medium banana, peeled and sliced
In blender or food processor, process yogurt, watermelon, strawberries and banana until smooth and frothy. Serve immediately.
Frozen Smoothie Pops Strawberry Shake
Small paper cups
Popsicle sticks
Pour prepared Watermelon Strawberry Shake into small paper cups. Freeze, inserting popsicle sticks or plastic spoons when mixture is partially frozen.
Remove after the pops have completely frozen.
