Summertime Sweet | 352 Preview

What’s sweet, juicy and the perfect summertime treat? Watermelon, of course!

Looking for the perfect dish to bring to your next barbecue? Try one of these twists on a summertime staple.

Fresh Mozzarella Watermelon Salad

This light and lively salad with the addition of watermelon is great on a hot summer day.

2 cups seeded small watermelon cubes

2 cups fresh mozzarella pearls

1 cup chopped fresh basil (purple or green)

1-2 tbsp trimmed and chopped scallions

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

Pinch salt and pepper to taste

Dash balsamic vinegar as desired

2 cups mixed greens

Toss together the watermelon, mozzarella, basil, scallions and oil. // Season with salt and pepper to taste. // Serve over a bed of baby greens. // Drizzle a bit of balsamic vinegar over if desired.

 

Watermelon Grape Fizz

Great for all ages and rimming with Pop Rocks candy makes this fun fizzy drink a popping surprise.

Ingredients

1 cup watermelon juice, strained

1/4 cup grape juice

3/4 cup sparkling water

Crushed ice

Pop Rocks and agave (or honey) for rim, optional

If using Pop Rocks: Place Pop Rocks in plastic bag, close and crush, and then spread on shallow saucer. // Rim oversized tumbler in agave or honey and then dip in crushed candy. // Mix together the watermelon puree and grape juice in a tall glass. // Add the sparkling water, then the ice, which causes a fun fizz!

 

Patriotic Charcuterie Board

Beautiful and customizable, this varied grazing board is perfect for your next party.

1/2 medium watermelon, cut into a combination of wedges and cubes

1/2 cup raspberries

1 1/2 cups blueberries

5 ounces goat cheese

1/2 cup toasted salted cashews

2 ounces various cured meats (like prosciutto, pancetta, coppa, salami, soppressata, sausage or pepperoni)

1 honeycrisp apple cored and sliced

Lemon juice

Fresh basil

Arrange the ingredients on a large board or platter. // Drizzle all the fruit with lemon juice. // Garnish with a few basil leaves. // Serve, and enjoy!

Source: watermelon.org

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