Refreshing Watermelon Salad Recipe!

In the scorching heat of summer, what better way to nourish your body and protect the environment than by indulging in a refreshing and sustainable Watermelon Salad? This delightful treat not only satisfies your taste buds but also celebrates the season's bountiful produce while promoting eco-friendly eating habits!

The Magic of Seasonal Ingredients

One of the key aspects of this Watermelon Salad is its use of seasonal ingredients. By choosing locally grown watermelons, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and herbs, you reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation. Seasonal produce also tends to be fresher and more nutrient-rich, contributing to your overall health.

But, wait! It’s also a clever way to reduce food waste. Instead of tossing out overripe watermelons, transforming them into a delightful salad breathes new life into these fruits. Incorporating imperfect or surplus vegetables helps reduce the demand for "perfect" produce, thus lessening the strain on the environment caused by selective farming.

So, when possible, make sure to go for organic veggies and fruits. This type of farming practices minimize the use of harmful chemicals and pesticides that can be detrimental to both human health and the environment. Furthermore, supporting sustainable and ethical agricultural practices helps protect our ecosystems and the biodiversity they support!

Fun fact before we get into it? 

Watermelons naturally contain high water content, making them an excellent choice for staying hydrated!. By sourcing local produce, you indirectly support water conservation efforts in your region by reducing the demand for water-intensive crops that may come from distant, drought-prone areas!

Now, let’s get into it! Ingredients:

• 4 cups of fresh watermelon, cubed;
• 1 cucumber, diced;
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced;
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved;
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped;
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped;
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional for added creaminess and tanginess);
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil;
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar;
• Salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions:

Firstly, get the party started in a large mixing bowl, combining the cubed watermelon, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped mint leaves, and chopped basil leaves! (If you're using the optional feta cheese, add it to the bowl as well.)

Then, drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad ingredients. Proceed to gently toss the salad to ensure the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly. 

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t get too greedy, we’re here for the natural goodie tastes. 

As a cherry on top, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilled watermelon salad tastes best on a hot summer day!

Now, all there’s left to say is bon appétit!! 

As we savor the flavors of summer, let us embrace a sustainable approach to our meals. Recipes like this embodies the essence of mindful eating, supporting local farmers, and reducing our impact on the planet! Enjoy your happy sustainable eating!

We’ll see you next week!