Sue Bedford (MSc Nutritional Therapy)
Fancy a savoury fertility-friendly watermelon pizza this summer? Great for a quick snack, with a bbq or as an accompaniment to fresh fish or a chicken dish.
Feta cheese is a tasty addition to this recipe and provides calcium as well as protein which helps to regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down the release of sugar from your food into the bloodstream.
Watermelon is a great source of vitamins C, A, B (some- including folate), magnesium and potassium. It is also high in carotenoids including lycopene and beta carotene- both of which are beneficial when it comes to fertility. Watermelon also contains glutathione which is linked to helping improve egg quality in certain studies.
Mint is a good source of iron, folate and beta carotene- adding to the balance and taste of this super salad.
Balsamic vinegar provides antioxidants. Is an antimicrobial and a probiotic – great for the gut and immune system.
Red onion, a prebiotic food – helps to keep the gut healthy by feeding the ‘good’ bacteria found there. It is also a great source of antioxidants and contains anti-inflammatory properties along with a good amount of various vitamins and minerals including folate, vitamin C and B6, calcium, magnesium and potassium.
Don’t forget the olives!…… Olives provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, iron and a good amount of vitamin E- another powerful antioxidant and as for the Jalapenos-they contain lots of vitamin c and vitamin B6 along with beta carotene and folate – many of their health benefits come from a compound that they contain called capsaicin, which makes them spicy. So why not spice up your weekend with this lovely recipe!
Watermelon, Feta and Balsamic Pizza (makes 1 portion or 2 as a side dish)
1 watermelon slice, cut 1- inch thick from centre of the widest part of the melon
1 oz crumbled feta cheese
A sprinkling of chives or red onion
5 to 6 olives, sliced
1 tsp mint leaves
1/2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
To make:
Cut a watermelon in half across the widest area. Cut a 1-inch thick slice from each half by laying the flat side down on a cutting board. Each half should be cut into four wedges.
Top with feta cheese, olives, red onion finely sliced or chives, balsamic vinegar, and mint leaves on a round dish as if it were a pizza. Enjoy!
If you wish to make a sweet version of this pizza why not top with natural live Greek yoghurt and sprinkle with your favourite fruit, honey and nuts.
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