Wattaaa-Lottaa MELON!

It's definitely been Summer for weeks now, but today, June 21 is officially "The First Day of Summer", as it is the longest day of the year! And watching the news this morning, I can see that the temps are not only steamy here in the South, but soaring all over the country! How do you cool off in this summer heat? Try these quick and easy recipes with watermelon to keep yourself hydrated, satisified and full in between your workouts. And don't forget to drink plenty of water! Regulating your body temp during workouts, especially fitness routines that are outside during the summer is key to staying well and taking care of yourself, even in the hottest conditions.

WATERMELON SALAD WITH FRESH MINT

1 (5-pound) watermelon

1 Vidalia or other sweet onion

1/4 cup red wine vinegar
Salt and pepper

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint

4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled

6 whole mint sprigs

Cut the flesh from the melon and cut into bite size pieces, removing and discarding the seeds, and set aside. Peel and slice the onion into rings.
In a small bowl, combine the vinegar, salt, pepper, and whisk until salt is dissolved. Slowly whisk in the olive oil, a few drops at a time. Add in the chopped mint, taste, and adjust seasonings.
In a large bowl, combine the melon, onion, and feta. Pour the dressing over the melon mixture and toss gently until everything is coated and evenly mixed. Garnish with mint sprigs.
To serve, divide salad among individual plates and garnish with mint leaves.

Aqua Fresca-Watermelon
2 cups cold water

2 cups watermelon (rind removed), seeded and chopped*
2Tbs Honey or Agave Nectar
Juice of 1/2 lime (no more than 1 tablespoon)
Ice cubes or crushed ice (optional)


Cut the watermelon into roughly 1-inch cubes. If you're using other fruits, prepare them accordingly, removing seeds or skins and cutting into small pieces if necessary.
In a blender or food processor, combine water, watermelon, sugar, and lime juice until smooth. NOTE: Traditionally an authentic aqua frescas are made without blenders and done by simply mashing the fruit with a fork or masher before adding the water and sweetener.
Pour mixture through a strainer into a pitcher, forcing through most of the pulp. Chill at least 30 minutes before serving. Serve with or without ice cubes.
As a decorative touch, add slices or chunks of matching fruit just before serving.
Makes 2 servings.

Variations:
Agua de Melon - Use cantaloupe or any other melon
Agua de Fresa - Use strawberries - Strawberry Agua Fresca
Agua de Papaya - Use papaya with the addition of some lime juice
Agua de Pina - Use pineapple - Agua de Pina
Agua Fresca de Pepino - Use peeled, and seeded cucumbers with the addition of lime juice.

DID YOU KNOW?
Watermelon is good for you! Loaded with vitamin A and C (fights off cancer and free radicals) High in beta carotene and lycopene (more than a tomato!) And it's very cleansing to the kidneys as it acts as a natural diurectic (and doesn't everyone want to fight the bloat!) So drink up! Eat up! And enjoy your watermelon this summer!