Around this time of year I begin to crave a juicy slice of fresh watermelon. Watermelon is at it’s peak yumminess in June or July so it’s time to share some recipes for this in-season fruit!

Watermelon makes me reminisce about the hot summer days of my childhood. I know, I know–it’s rained the last 12 Saturdays (true story) but the sun is out right now and it’s giving me hope that summer is finally here!

When I was a kid, watermelon came just one way–a whole fruit with black seeds. My mom would cut big, thick slices and send my siblings and I outside. We and I would stand on our back deck and spit the seeds over the railing. Classy, I know!

The seedless variety of watermelon that we see now, actually have small, immature white seeds that can be eaten (and are no good for spitting).

So What Can I Make With Watermelon?

Here are a couple of ideas to try with your kiddos:

1. Watermelon Slushy: Watermelon’s natural sweet juiciness makes it a good candidate for blending. Toss cubes of watermelon, the juice of one lime and a few blocks of ice (or frozen watermelon cubes) in the blender and whiz for a minute or so.
   • Optional: depending on the sweetness of your watermelon, you might need to add a pinch of sugar or drop of honey. Add a few fresh mint leaves or other fruit such as kiwi or strawberry.
2. Frozen Watermelon Pop: Use the slushy from above and pour into popsicle molds.
3. Watermelon ice cubes: Freeze watermelon slushy into ice cubes and add to seltzer water or lemonade for a refreshing flavor.
4. Melon Kabobs: Alternate chunks of watermelon, cantaloupe and honeydew melon on bamboo skewers for a pretty treat. *Be careful! Skewers are pointy*
5. Watermelon Wedge Pop: Cut thick slices of watermelon and, using a sharp paring knife, cut a slit in the rind. Push a popsicle stick in the slit. Place the watermelon popsicle on a cookie sheet and freeze.

Snack Idea:

Watermelon slushy

Reach out at Karen@CoastalFamilyNutrition.com or call the office at 603-674-2479.

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