Skip right to Watermelon Gazpacho Recipe
Summer is in full swing and I hope you have been able to get outside to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. Getting out of the house has so many health benefits. Those who get outside on a regular basis tend to have stronger immune systems than those who stay indoors. A healthy immune system is better able to fight off invading germs before they can take hold, keeping us healthier. And staying healthy is always a good thing, especially right now.
Additionally, being in the outdoors can boost our energy levels and lift your spirits. Having a positive outlook can help keep us healthy too.
But, if you are going to be out and taking advantage of all this wonderful warm weather, make sure you don't overdo it in the sun. Put on sunscreen so you don't burn and take precautions not to get overheated.
And one way to keep your body temperature regulated is to make sure you are staying hydrated! That's right, there is a real purpose to sweating (other than leaving embarrassing stains!) It helps our body cool off by evaporating off the skin and taking some of our heat with it. When the water in the sweat evaporates, it leaves salt behind on your skin, (which is why your skin tastes salty.)
On a hot day, especially one that is free of humidity, you can lose a lot of salt and water from your body through sweating. This can quickly dehydrate you, which can lead to circulatory problems, kidney failure, and heatstroke.
So remember to bring a water bottle along with you if you are going to be heading outside for a while.
Other hydrating tips you might try include:
- drinking a glass of water first thing in the morning.
- Skip to Watermelon Gazpacho RecipeMake hydrating more enjoyable by flavoring your water, adding fruit or flavorful herbs such as mint.
- Take frequent water breaks especially when you are exercising, whether inside or out.
But here's a great tip: You can "eat" your water as well!
There are plenty of foods that contain a good amount of water. When we eat them we benefit from this. Not only that, but they deliver a ton of nutrients including vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients, that work to keep you healthy and strong.
Here are some of the top hydrating foods for you to have on hand.
- Cucumbers
- Green peppers
- Tomatoes
- Watermelon
- Strawberries
- Papaya
- Grapefruit
- Butternut Squash
- Cantaloupe
- Radishes
So, this summer, try and get in as many fruits and vegetables as possible, and maybe add a few of these to keep you hydrated and going strong all day long. If you're looking for suggestions, try the Gazpacho recipe below. It is a favorite of mine. You can also take a look at all the recipes on my website. Just click on the recipe tab!
Yours in Health,
Evey
Watermelon and Tomato Gazpacho Soup
You can leave this cold soup a bit chunky, or for a real treat, blend it up and drink it as a smoothie! It's that good!
Adapted from NomNomPaleo. Click here for original recipe.
Makes 8 cups
Ingredients
2 pounds ripe tomatoes OR 28 oz. can diced tomatoes
1 medium red bell pepper
1 hothouse cucumber (approximately 1 pound)
2 small shallots, coarsely chopped
4 cilantro stalks
1 pound cubed watermelon (approximately 3 cups)
2 tablespoons sherry vinegar OR white balsamic vinegar
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for garnish
1 teaspoon kosher salt
Freshly ground pepper
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
- Blanch tomatoes to remove skins. Remove cores and roughly chop, reserving all juices and seeds.
- Dice the red pepper. Peel and roughly chop cucumber. Reserve ¼ of cucumber for garnish.
- Puree shallots, cucumber, bell pepper, cilantro, and tomatoes in blender.
- Meanwhile, cube and de-seed the watermelon.
- Once the veggies are liquefied, add the watermelon, vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
- Adjust seasonings to taste.
- Refrigerate the soup in the blender cup for at least 4 hours or until it’s fully chilled.
- Ladle the gazpacho into chilled cups and top with a drizzle of olive oil, cucumber, and fresh cracked pepper
http://nomnompaleo.com/post/28229882380/watermelon-and-tomato-gazpacho
