Simple Watermelon Peel Salad

Many people have been working outdoors recently readying gardens and crops for summer.  When working in the heat, it is important to stay hydrated and pace your efforts to avoid dehydration, heat stroke, and heat exhaustion.

Chinese herbal medicine has a tasty option to help with summer heat.  Watermelon fruit and peel are used to quench thirst, generate body fluids, lessen feelings of heat, and promote urination.  It is an excellent snack if you are going to be working or playing hard this summer.

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Watermelon Peel Salad
Serves 6.

Ingredients:
4 c watermelon peel

2 tsp salt

 Dressing:

1 tsp sugar (to taste)

1/2 tsp salt (to taste)

1/4 c sesame oil

2 Tbsp vinegar

Preparation:
-Cut white portion of watermelon peel into 2 inch long strips

-Combine the strips and salt and mix with hands for 5 minutes.  Then rinse and dry on paper towel.

-Wisk dressing ingredients together.  Add watermelon peel and toss until evenly combined.  Marinade for 1 hour before serving.

NOTE: May add other seasonings, such as garlic or ginger, if desired.  Picture shows minced garlic.

Recipe and picture from elotus.org.