Tasty. Easy. Healthy.

Summer is on its way out, but I’m still clinging to the last days. While I love all the seasons, I am partial to the produce of summer. I know we can buy blueberries, tomatoes, peaches and corn year-round in this country. But to get something picked at its prime, in season, is heavenly.

Right now watermelons are juicy, sweet and ripe. An ice-cold slice on a hot day captures a quintessential summer feeling for me. Not only is watermelon refreshing, and delicious, it’s quite nutritious as well. As found on WebMD’s “15 Immune Boosting Foods” slideshow, watermelon “has plenty of a powerful antioxidant, glutathione. Known to help strengthen the immune system so it can fight infection, glutathione is found in the red pulpy flesh near the rind.”

Who knew that one of summer’s sweetest summer fruits could be so beneficial?

If you haven’t tried using watermelon in a salad, I highly recommend it. It’s great with a bit of crumbled feta cheese, mint and arugula. Sprinkle a bit of sea salt and you will have a new and unusual salad to enjoy in the summer months. (Toss your arugula with extra virgin olive oil and a squeeze of lemon or splash of balsamic vinegar.)

I also love watermelon in a blender with ice because it makes for a great natural slushy. If the weekend rolls around and you are looking for an idea for a fun party drink, a watermelon margarita is another great twist on a classic. There are several ways to enjoy this summer fruit that has a limited number of days to be enjoyed.

Until next time, stay fresh and delicious!

~ Chef Domenica

What’s the best way to enjoy watermelon? What are your favorite summer foods? Share your recommendations with the Food and Cooking Community.