STRAWBERRY WATERMELON BASIL SALAD + A WATERMELON KITCHEN HACK

Hi y’all!  The summer solstice is right around the corner! With summer weather here to stay, it’s always great to have some quick, easy and delicious go-to recipes in your back pocket.  This sweet and savory fruit salad is definitely on my summer list to have on hand and to serve at BBQs and summer parties - this would be perfect​ for the 4th!  You can make it ahead of time and it only gets better. Plus, July is watermelon season. :)  

If you are in Nashville, a great place to spend the afternoon is Arrington Vineyards.  I recently took a friend there.  We picked up a few picnic items from Whole Foods, ate them on a picnic blanket, drank some delicious rose and enjoyed the scenery. This is my interpretation of one of the salads we picked up. It’s incredible.

I don’t even know if I should call this a recipe.  But, it is one of my favorite ways to cook - just throwing things together in a bowl. :)

WATERMELON-STRAWBERRY-BASIL SALAD

INGREDIENTS​

• 1 small watermelon, cut into cubes
• 1 pint of strawberries, sliced
• 2-3 tbsp basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper (optional)
  

DIRECTIONS

1. Mix everything together in a large bowl.
2. ENJOY!

*The salt and pepper are optional. Give it a try both ways to find what you like best. I think it adds a great contrast to the sweet fruits.

Hate cutting watermelon?  Because - let’s be honest - it make a huuuuuge mess! My mother-in-law taught me the coolest trick to cut watermelon.  Cut the watermelon in a baking sheet that has a high lip!  GENIUS!  Game-changer.  The baking sheet will catch all the juice and it won't make a mess anymore!  Here’s a step by step of how I cut the watermelon.

Here's the set up:

1. Dish towel  -  helps to keep the pan from sliding around.
2. Baking Sheet that has a lip (like this one)
3. Cutting Board
4. Chef's knife (like this one)
5. Watermelon - I start by cutting the melon in half, then in quarters. Then, I cut off the rind and chop the watermelon in cubes. Repeat with each quarter.

What are your favorite ways to eat summer fruit?  Share with us by commenting below! 

​christy