Valley Bounty: Watermelon

Though the dry weather may be making headaches for farmers in the Valley and throughout the state, it might actually have certain benefits for some crops like watermelon; assuming our hard-working farmers provide them with enough irrigation to grow, dry conditions help prevent disease and can concentrate flavor in the fruit (since more of the melon’s flesh is comprised of nutrients and sugar, rather than water). So keep your eyes peeled for watermelon at your local farmers’ market or grocer that buys from local farms — the farm will be happy to have your support, but be warned, you will have to choke down some delicious watermelon. We all make sacrifices.

Besides simply chopped into wedges, try cubed watermelon in salad with feta, arugula, chopped bacon, balsamic vinaigrette, and maybe a bit of rosemary. You can also toss watermelon in the blender or food processor with about a tablespoon each of honey and lime juice, then pour the whole thing into reusable popsicle molds for a refreshing and delicious way to beat the summer heat.

Valley Bounty is written by Brian Snell of CISA (Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture)