Watermelon
Red watermelon is a good source of lycopene, a phytonutrient that gives watermelon its color. Lycopene is an antioxidant that helps protect the body against conditions such as heart disease, inflammation and some cancers.
Did You Know?
- Watermelon is free of fat, sodium and cholesterol, is a good source of vitamin C and contains vitamin A.
- Grown in the western parts of the state, from north Collier County to Columbia County, watermelon from Florida is available from late March until mid-July.
- Watermelons are 92 percent water.
- Early explorers used watermelons as canteens.
Shopping, Preparing and Storing
- Ripe watermelons have a yellow or cream-yellow ground spot in the place the melon rested on the soil. If this spot is green or white, the watermelon is probably not ripe.
- Whole melons will keep in the refrigerator for no longer than a week. Once cut, they should be kept refrigerated and covered with plastic wrap.
- Before cutting your watermelon, be sure to wipe it with a clean cloth and lightly soapy water.
Cooking Tips
- The flavor of watermelon can be enhanced by adding a squeeze of lemon juice, honey or chopped mint.
- Sliced watermelon flavors wonderfully with salt, pepper and goat cheese on bread as a sandwich or can be enjoyed atop a salad with citrus vinaigrette.
Watermelon Nutrition
Serving size: 1 cup
Calories: 46; Total Fat: 0 g; Saturated Fat: 0 g; Total Carbohydrates: 11 g; Protein: 1 g; Sodium: 2 mg
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