Local Watermelon

As I pass by a truck stand on the side of the road in Southeast Minnesota on an early August day, I notice watermelon, cantaloupe, sweet corn and other local vegetables. They’re not hard to miss. The next time I’m heading in that direction, I make a point to stop and take advantage of the local crops. The watermelon are large, dark green and particularly heavy. The vendor said they were the darkest watermelons of the season, meaning they are incredibly sweet.

When we cut into the watermelon, the dark red color stands out. After taking a bite, we deem it the best watermelon we’ve ever had. It’s dark deep red flesh is delicious and satisfying. In addition to keeping you hydrated, watermelon is high in vitamins and lycopene, which is known to lower the risk of cancer, lower cholesterol and blood pressure and help with inflammation. All this from a fruit that is 92% water? We were surprised too until we read more about it.

Watermelon can satisfy your sweet tooth as an after dinner treat. It can quench your thirst after a hard workout or a long day outside in the sun.

So next time you see a roadside stand, stop and take advantage of the local produce your area has to offer. And if there’s watermelon, don’t pass it up.