Graduations, lighter traffic, and it’s soooo hot. What do these three things have in common? They are all signs of summer in Hawaii!

I don’t know about you, but I look forward to summer. It means drinking more ice water, eating shaved ice, and the aunties in my family tend to make more salads. Everything from cold somen salad to fruit salad gets incorporated into meals. Not only are they light and refreshing, but healthy too!

If you love ice cold watermelon, you’ll love this recipe we threw together one afternoon. Subtle sweet and savory flavors are combined for a refreshing treat. It’s easy to prepare for a family gathering and looks like a pro put it together. Enjoy!

Ingredients:
Remember to scout farmers markets to support your local produce growers. 

Small watermelon, rine removed and cut into large chunks
Sweet basil, whole large leaves
Mint, large bunch
Flat parsley, small bunch
Cashews, 2 cups
Olive oil, for drizzling
Small red pepper
Kosher salt and black pepper

Directions:
If you need a more substantial summer salad, add roast pork to this recipe!  

Chop watermelon into large chunky pieces.  Wash and remove basil and mint leaves from stems.  Pat dry and place on the side.  Clip parsley at the stems and set aside with basil and mint.  Next, length-wise slice open the red pepper and remove all seeds. Slice the red pepper into thin slivers and set aside. In a large mixing bowl, combine watermelon, basil, mint, cashews, red pepper slivers, olive oil, a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper. Gently mix and garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

I’m always on the look out for new healthy recipes. Do you have any tried-and-true favorites? I’d love to hear about them!

Photos courtesy of Kevin Kabei.

About Taryn Kabei

When not working as the Digital Media Specialist for C. S. Wo & Sons, Taryn, an avid foodie is always cooking and trying new recipes. Taryn lives with her husband, Kevin, and their cat, Keiko in Honolulu. Taryn is also a contributor on homeworldhawaii.com.