By Doula Jen

This is a happy, yummy recipe for any summer occasion. I recommend it for post-birth mamas for about a billion reasons. To name a few: watermelon is packed with—duh—water for hydration, electrolytes for better absorption of said hydration, vitamins A and C for an immune boost, potassium, and essential amino acids that aid in proper blood flow. Beyond that, watermelon is cold and refreshing. I find that many of the moms I work with suffer loss of appetite due to exhaustion, depression, hormone imbalance, or preoccupation with the new baby. They literally forget to eat or simply have no desire to. Cold, sweet foods go down easier when you’re not up for much and you can’t always eat ice cream! This is a healthy, hearty, low-fuss bowl of yum to have by your side while feeding, burping, and rocking your babe.

Ingredients:

-3 c. cubed ripe watermelon

-1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

-1 small container grape tomatoes, rinsed

-1 small container fresh mozzarella pearls or large balls, drained

-10-20 fresh basil leaves

-equal parts olive oil and red wine vinegar, to taste

-salt and pepper to taste

You know what to do! Combine, get creative, enjoy!