Watermelon

With summer here, it's time to enjoy some nice juicy watermelon. But how do you choose a good one? First, check to make sure the fruit is nice and symmetrical, free from bruises and dents. Take a look at the skin to see that is nice and waxy to the touch. Make sure the melon feels heavy for its size. It is after all, 92% water. When looking at the melon, there should also be a lighter patch somewhere on it where the fruit lay to ripen on the ground. Some people think you need to thump a melon to test its ripeness. If you are one of those folks, the flick the melon with your middle finger and listen to hear a deep thudding sound. That should tell you if your watermelon is ripe or not.

Want to make watermelon ice cubes to refresh your summer drink? Try this recipe:

6 cups cubed, seeded watermelon

4 tbsp. sugar (or to taste)

30-40 fresh raspberries

Bunch of fresh rough chopped mint leaves

Puree the melon in a blender. Add the sugar one tablespoon at a time, to taste. Place one raspberry in each section of 2-3 ice cube trays. Pour in the melon puree and top with a pinch of the chopped mint in each section. Cover and freeze until frozen solid.