Introduction

Water retention, also known as edema, can be uncomfortable and sometimes even painful. It occurs when excess fluid builds up in your body’s tissues, leading to swelling, especially in the legs, ankles, and feet. If you’re looking for a natural remedy to alleviate this issue, look no further! This delightful and refreshing recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with ingredients known for their diuretic properties. Say goodbye to bloating and hello to a lighter, happier you with this rejuvenating dish!

Ingredients

• 1 large cucumber (about 300g or 10.5 oz)
• 2 medium tomatoes (about 250g or 8.8 oz)
• 1 cup of fresh parsley (about 60g or 2 oz), chopped
• 1 lemon, juiced (about 50ml or 1.7 fl oz)
• 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil (about 30ml or 1 fl oz)
• 1 teaspoon of sea salt (about 5g or 0.18 oz)
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper (about 1g or 0.035 oz)
• 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional, about 0.5g or 0.017 oz)
• 1 cup of watermelon cubes (about 150g or 5.3 oz)
• 1/2 cup of mint leaves (about 30g or 1 oz), chopped

Instructions

1. Begin by washing all your fresh ingredients under cold water to remove any dirt or pesticides.
2. Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise and then slice it into thin half-moons.
3. Dice the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces, discarding any excess seeds if desired.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, diced tomatoes, and chopped parsley.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) until well combined.
6. Pour the dressing over the cucumber and tomato mixture, tossing gently to coat everything evenly.
7. Add the watermelon cubes and chopped mint leaves to the bowl, mixing gently to incorporate without squishing the watermelon.
8. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
9. Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy your refreshing salad that supports natural diuresis!

FAQs

1. Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the cucumber with zucchini or bell peppers, and if you don’t have parsley, cilantro works well too. Feel free to add other seasonal fruits like strawberries or blueberries for a twist.

2. How should I store any leftovers?

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the watermelon may release some juice, so it’s best to consume it quickly.

3. Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cucumber and tomato mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. However, it’s best to add the watermelon and dressing just before serving to maintain the freshness and crunchiness.

4. Is this recipe suitable for a low-sodium diet?

Yes! You can easily omit the sea salt or replace it with a salt substitute if you are watching your sodium intake.

5. What are some variations I can try?

You can try adding other ingredients like avocado for creaminess, or even nuts such as walnuts or almonds for added crunch and healthy fats. A splash of balsamic vinegar can also enhance the flavor profile!