The Joy of Watermelon (From Times Series)

The Joy of Water Melon

10:50am Friday 16th July 2010

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The Joy of Watermelon!

Watermelon brings out the best of summer to drinks, salsa and salads. Apparently, according to scientists from Texas University, US, watermelons are nature’s equivalent of Viagra! They contain an organic compound called citrulline which when consumed converts to an amino acid that encourages the blood vessels to relax and improve circulation. However since watermelons are 92% water, there is probably a downside – isn’t there always one - a detrimental effect on the bladder!

Perhaps this recent research about watermelons is a little unexpected but enjoy it, especially as from a culinary point of view, watermelon makes a refreshing snack on a hot day. They come in a range of sizes, colours and shapes and recent advances in science have now produced wonderful seedless varieties. By the way, watermelons are actually vegetables of the pumpkin, cucumber and squash family and every part of the watermelon is edible ~ including the seeds and rind.

I have even learnt that in Japan, they tried to grow them in a glass box in order to create square watermelons. This would make them easier to produce and to store in your fridge – however the idea did not take off as the costs proved too high for mass production!

My new watermelon recipe below is for a colourful salad, made with Lancashire cheese. It makes a tasty starter or low calorie lunch and is best served straight from the fridge.

Lancashire cheese, Watermelon and Red Cabbage Salad

You can never have too many recipes for salads especially in the summer when a light meal that requires no cooking on a hot sticky evening is most welcome.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: No cooking!

Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

500g water melon – de seeded and diced

150g Lancashire cheese – roughly chopped

50g fresh rocket

200g red cabbage – finely shredded

Dressing

2 tablespoons fresh mint –finely chopped

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon sugar

4 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon mustard – any variety

Salt and freshly ground black pepper – to taste (or use crushed red peppercorns)

Garnish: 2 tablespoons black sesame seeds

Method

1) For the dressing, whisk the lemon juice, mint, sugar, olive oil and mustard together.

2) Arrange the melon, Lancashire cheese and red cabbage on a large plate with the rocket.

3) Just before serving pour over the dressing.

To serve the stylish way: Garnish with a sprinkling of black sesame seeds.