August is the perfect time to share a colorful, light and refreshing salad recipe. This one is even more perfect since yesterday, Aug. 3, was National Watermelon Day. And it’s also National Goat Cheese Month.

The American Cheese Society began observing National Goat Cheese Month in 1998 to promote the benefits of cooking with goat cheese. Did you know that fresh goat cheese has about half the fat, cholesterol and calories of commercial cream cheese? And another fun fact – it takes about 100 pounds of goat’s milk to make 25 pounds of goat cheese!

The other star of this salad, watermelon, is sometimes called summer’s most refreshing fruit. It may have something to do with the fact that watermelon is 92% water! Watermelons come in many different shapes, sizes and even colors, ranging from red to white. There are more than 300 varieties of watermelon available in the U.S.

Enjoy both of these delicious and nutritious foods in the recipe from EatingWell below. Top it with a grilled chicken breast or some salmon to make it a meal!

Watermelon & Goat Cheese Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  
  
• 3 tablespoons orange juice
  
  
• 1 tablespoon red-wine vinegar
  
  
• ¼ teaspoon salt
  
  
• Freshly ground pepper, to taste
  
  
• 8 cups watercress, tough stems removed, or mixed salad greens (5 ounces)
  
  
• 4 cups diced seedless watermelon, (about 3 pounds with the rind)
  
  
• 1/4 cup very thinly sliced red onion
  
  
• 2 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
  
  
• 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts (2 ounces), toasted

INSTRUCTIONS:

Whisk oil, orange juice, vinegar, salt and pepper in a large bowl until well combined. Add watercress, watermelon and red onion; toss to coat. Divide between 5 plates, top with goat cheese and nuts to serve.

Makes 5 servings.

Nutrition facts (per serving):
Calories: 227; Fat: 18g; Carbs: 13g; Protein: 6g

Recipe Card for Watermelon & Goat Cheese Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

Sources:
EatingWell
National Day Calendar
National Today