Watermelon is about to make its grand return to market stalls, much to the delight of our taste buds… and our figures! As the warmer days roll back in, this fruit is set to become a staple at our table once again. Today, we’re sharing all the benefits of watermelon and 3 simple recipes, so you can treat yourself while taking care of your body.
The benefits of watermelon
Made up of more than 90% water, watermelon is a very low-calorie fruit (around 20 calories per 100 grams). No need to worry about weight gain or worsening cellulite with this one!
Its exceptionally high water content also makes it an ideal fruit if you struggle with water retention. In fact, to combat water retention, staying well hydrated is key! When your body gets enough fluids, it stops holding onto them — and you help it eliminate them naturally. By eating watermelon, you significantly boost your daily water intake without even noticing. On top of that, watermelon is rich in potassium, which is known to help flush out excess fluids stored in the body.
Another great thing about watermelon is its high fibre content. Combined with its water content, these fibres are perfect for encouraging your body to eliminate toxins and built-up fats. Goodbye, cellulite! These fibres also support healthy digestion, helping you achieve a flatter, more comfortable tummy.
Watermelon is also well known for its abundance of antioxidants — which are essential for beautiful skin and a healthy body overall.
Active women will love watermelon too, as it contains L-citrulline, a molecule that helps muscles clear lactic acid built up during intense exercise. Lactic acid can cause muscle soreness, aches and heavy-leg sensations after a workout, so helping your body get rid of it is always a good idea.
Finally, watermelon may also help protect against heart problems, certain forms of cancer, rheumatism and high blood pressure.
In short, watermelon ticks every box: it helps fight water retention, reduce cellulite, improve digestion and keep you feeling your best!
Now that you know all the benefits of watermelon, it’s time to try these 3 recipes!
Strawberry & watermelon granita
Serves 2
Ingredients
- ½ watermelon
- 20 strawberries
- 2 tbsp honey
- A few fresh mint leaves
Method
- Start by cutting the watermelon into chunks and removing the seeds.
- Place the watermelon, washed and hulled strawberries, and honey in a blender.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a large, shallow container and place in the freezer for at least 5 hours.
- Every 30 minutes, take the granita out of the freezer and scrape it with a fork to achieve a fine, icy texture.
- Serve well chilled with a few mint leaves.
Tomato & watermelon gazpacho
Serves 2
Ingredients
- 200g watermelon
- 2 small tomatoes
- ½ red pepper
- ½ onion
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp vinegar
- Salt and pepper
Method
- Wash and cut the tomatoes, pepper and watermelon into small pieces (making sure to remove the watermelon seeds).
- Peel and roughly chop the onion.
- Place all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
- Add the olive oil, vinegar, salt and pepper, then blend again for a few seconds.
- Refrigerate the gazpacho for at least 2 hours before serving — enjoy!
Grilled savoury watermelon
Serves 2
Ingredients
- 1/3 watermelon
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, pepper or spices of your choice
Method
- Cut the watermelon into thick slices, about 4 cm deep. Remove the seeds.
- Drizzle the slices with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper and/or your choice of spices.
- Place the watermelon slices in the oven under the grill for 5 minutes.
- Flip the slices and cook for a further 3 to 4 minutes. Ready to serve!