In this hot and humid weather, we have a delicious way to help your body rehydrate and cool off.  It sounds weird, but trust us, this recipe is delicious and worth giving a try! Watermelon and cucumber have properties that Chinese medicine uses to cool the body and get rid of dampness. In addition, the recipe contains olive oil for healthy fats, shallots and garlic for prebiotics that are wonderful for digestion, and basil for uplifting flavor. Make a batch and see if you notice yourself feeling cooler and a bit lighter overall.  Let us know what you think!

INGREDIENTS

8 cups 1/4-inch-diced watermelon

1 medium cucumber, peeled, seeded and finely diced

1/2 red bell pepper, seeded and finely diced

1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

1/4 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley

2 tablespoons minced shallot

2 medium garlic cloves, minced

3 tablespoons red-wine vinegar

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

3/4 teaspoon salt

Black pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS

Mix ingredients in a large bowl. Puree about half of the mixture in a blender or food processor to the desired smoothness. Stir in the remaining diced mixture.

Chill for at least one hour, to allow flavors to combine, and stir well before serving.

Serve chilled and enjoy!