Healthy Watermelon on the Go

MISSION, KS--(Marketwired - Mar 24, 2014) - (Family Features) Long hailed as sweetly satisfying, watermelon may not be the first tasty fruit that comes to mind when you're thinking nutrition. But in fact, watermelon is not only a perfect on-the-go snack to satisfy your sweet tooth, it's also incredibly healthy.

Watermelon contains higher levels of lycopene, an antioxidant, than any other fresh fruit or vegetable. It's also is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as providing vitamin B6 and potassium.

A sweet family favorite
Health benefits aside, the crisp, sugary flavor of watermelon makes it a favorite for kids and adults alike, especially during the warmer months. Its firm texture makes watermelon ideal for a variety of recipes, many of which are a natural fit with today's busy households.

Thinking beyond traditional chunks or balls, there are many ways to incorporate watermelon into your favorite grab-and-go foods, from smoothies and breakfast push-up-pops to sandwiches and wraps to juicy, frozen desserts.

Get everyone in the kitchen
To create your own watermelon snacks on the go, gather the kids and let your imaginations run wild. Or, get started with these recipes from the National Watermelon Promotion Board.

Add some sweetness to your morning and try Breakfast Push Pops for a hands-on treat kids will love. Watermelon Slice Popsicles are an easy, fun take on a traditional watermelon slice, and the built-in "handle" makes cleanup a breeze.

Breakfast Push Pops

Diced watermelon chunks
Yogurt of choice
Granola
Push pop molds, sold at most restaurant supply stores

Layer watermelon, yogurt and granola into molds and top with yogurt and watermelon chunks. Optional: Freeze push pop molds for breakfast on the go.

Watermelon Slice Popsicles

Watermelon slices, cut into triangular wedge shapes about 1/2 to 1-inch thick
Popsicle sticks

Insert popsicle stick into each rind.

Optional: Freeze the slice popsicles for a frosty, refreshing treat.

For more recipes and a section dedicated to kids' learning and games, visit www.watermelon.org.

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