Blood Orange Balsamic Watermelon Salad

Abigail Blank - The Upside Blog | Vitacost.com/blog

by | Updated: December 3rd, 2016 | Read time: 1 minute

In the warm summer months I love grilling outdoors. There’s something about the simplicity of summertime cookouts that makes me feel like life has slowed down a bit and maybe even gotten a little easier, if only for those couple hours. Whether it’s an old fashion block party with my neighbors or watching a gorgeous evening sunset in my backyard, from creative kabobs to decadent desserts, I love it all. Plus, it cuts the after dinner clean-up to a minimum, and I hate doing dishes.

Using seasonal fruits and veggies in our daily menu is part of my ever-evolving work to create a eco-friendly and organic home, so I’ve created chilled-out alternative to all those mayonnaise-drenched side salads. This organic greens and watermelon salad is extremely easy to prepare and goes great with chicken or fish or grilled summer squash for a delicious and healthy All American BBQ.

 

Blood Orange Balsamic Watermelon Salad

Serves 4 to 6 (or 2 if serving as  main course)

Ingredients
5 cups organic mixed greens
2 cups cubed watermelon
2-3 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar
2 Tbsp. blood orange juice (fresh squeezed, if possible)
1/2 cup organic walnut halves
1/3 cup organic cranberries
1/3 cup low fat shredded jack cheese (optional)

Directions

  1. Rinse greens.
  2. Combine balsamic vinegar and fresh squeezed blood orange juice in small bowl.
  3. Dice watermelon into 1/2 inch cubes.
  4. Combine all ingredients (except for the cheese), adding the balsamic mixture last, then toss.
  5. Top with shredded cheese.
  6. Chill for 30 minutes to an hour before serving.