I cannot think of anything more naturally refreshing than nice chilled chunks of watermelon. Now add some mint and feta cheese and you truly have something special. The combination of the sweet watermelon, cooling mint and salty feta creates a perfect summertime salad.

While I am all about flavor, I am also all about health. So here are the deets on the health benefits of watermelon. This tropical fruit while sweet is 92% water thus making it an easy and great alternative to help get your recommended 8 glasses of water. Also it has the highest lycopene concentration out of any fruit or vegetable (yes, more than tomatoes). Lycopene is thought to help protect against cardiovascular disease and cancer. Additionally, watermelon also has Vitamin A & C both is great for healthy skin and hair.

Minted Watermelon Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 small (2 1/2 pounds) seedless red watermelon

• 1 small (2 1/2 pounds) seedless yellow watermelon

• 2 ounces ricotta salata

• 1/2 teaspoon coarse sea salt, preferably Maldon

• 3 tablespoons sliced fresh mint

Note: While this recipe calls for ricotta salata, I would recommend feta as it is easier to find and a more economical buy. Also, if you cannot find Maldon sea salt, Pink Himalayan sea salt from Trader Joe’s is a wonderful substitute.

Full recipe instructions can be found on Martha Stewart Living.