Watermelon with Saffron Yogurt, Basil & Mint

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Watermelon with Saffron Yogurt, Basil & Mint

By Phil Vickery

Published: | Updated:

I really like this serving method for any watermelon dish, sweet or savoury. I saw the idea when I filmed in the Turks and Caicos Islands, where chef Colin Watson at Sandals Beach reigns supreme.

Watermelon is one of the best fruits to eat if you’re dieting since 90 per cent of its weight is water and, as a result, it is low in calories

Serves 4

PREPARATION TIME 20 minutes

few saffron stamens

2 tbsp boiling water

3cm-thick slice watermelon

150g 0% fat unsweetened yogurt

10 fresh mint leaves

10 fresh basil leaves (I prefer Thai basil)

2 tbsp sunflower seeds, lightly toasted

freshly ground black pepper (optional)

  • Place the saffron in an egg cup and add the boiling water. Stir then leave to cool.
  • Place the watermelon slice on a large serving plate and remove any seeds with a fork, then cut into eight even wedges.
  • Beat the yogurt then spread it evenly over the melon, leaving a 2cm border at the edge – it’s nice to see the colour contrast, especially when you add more ingredients.
  • Finely slice the mint and basil and sprinkle over the yogurt, then add the toasted seeds.
  • Just before serving, spoon over the saffron water and a little black pepper, if using. Serve straight away.

Nutrition Tip

Watermelon is one of the best fruits to eat if you’re dieting since 90 per cent of its weight is water and, as a result, it is low in calories.

ENERGY 109kcals PROTEIN 5.6g FAT 3g SATURATED FAT 1.2g

CARBOHYDRATE 14g

TOTAL SUGARS 11g SALT 0g SODIUM 0mg FIBRE 1g