Watermelon is over ninety percent water, which makes this salad one of the most hydrating things you can eat, and hydration matters more for digestion than people give it credit for. Toss in salty feta and fresh basil and you get a sweet-savory combo that also happens to bring citrulline from the watermelon and a dose of gut-friendly probiotics from the cheese. Ten minutes and no cooking required, with nothing but upside for your gut. Curious what watermelon specifically does for digestion? Read Watermelon and Gut Health, or try our Tomato and Burrata Salad for another no-cook option.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cubed watermelon
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, torn
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Combine watermelon, feta, and basil in a bowl.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze just before serving.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Calories | 120 |
| Total fat | 7g |
| Total carbohydrates | 13g |
| Dietary fiber | 0.8g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Sodium | 260mg |
Why This Is Good for Your Gut
Watermelon's high water content supports healthy digestion and helps fiber move efficiently through the gut, while its citrulline content may support blood flow to the digestive tract. Feta, an aged and often fermented cheese, contains beneficial bacterial cultures, and fresh basil contributes polyphenols and volatile oils linked to reduced gut inflammation.
No stove needed, and a salad that's basically a hydration IV with better presentation.
This recipe is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional dietary advice.
