National Watermelon Month will take place for the first time this year from 1 – 29 February, to celebrate one of the nation’s most popular summer fruits. Led by LeaderBrand, an innovative, Kiwi owned producer of fresh fruit and vegetables, a number of initiatives have been planned to help New Zealanders take part in the celebrations.
“Nothing says summer in New Zealand like a delicious, juicy watermelon,” says Bevan Roach, LeaderBrand Marketing Manager. “It is also one of the most guilt-free foods you can get. It has excellent levels of vitamins A and C, and there are only 80 calories in two cups. Perfect for people wanting to eat clean after the excess of the Christmas holidays!
“We think it’s an iconic New Zealand summer fruit that is well worth celebrating,” he adds. “We’re hoping National Watermelon Month will convince more Kiwis to pick up a watermelon during their next shop. With watermelon growing at its peak (available January – March), it’s also the ideal time to get creative with this refreshing fruit. It doesn’t just have to be eaten by the slice – it is also fantastic in salads, salsas, desserts, cocktails and all manner of other tasty summer recipes.”
New Zealanders will be encouraged to take part in National Watermelon Month through a series of contests and giveaways on Instagram and Facebook. Prizes will include supermarket vouchers and watermelon seeds so fans can have a go at growing their own watermelons from scratch. A number of watermelon recipes will be developed especially for the occasion and New Zealand bloggers will also be able to enter their watermelon themed recipes into a special competition during National Watermelon Month.
Visit instagram.com/LeaderBrandNZ and facebook.com/LeaderBrandNZ for recipes, meal inspiration, and watermelon tips from the experts, along with daily competitions #NZWatermelonMonth
Five ways to use NZ watermelon
1) Cut watermelon slices into cool shapes using a cookie cutter – stars, hearts and flowers. Put on lollipop sticks for a tasty, healthy kid’s treat.
2) Mix with lime, water and sugar, and freeze for an easy sorbet.
3) Toss watermelon with roasted beetroot. Drizzle with a simple balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing salad. Very healthy with an added kick of folate from the beets!
4) Layer pan-fried halloumi with thick slices of watermelon for a decadent tasting snack or canapé.
5) Whizz up a watermelon mojito. Combine watermelon juice, mint leaves, lime, white rum and sparkling water. Top with a mint spring and enjoy a perfect summer drink.
