Looking for a refreshing, nutrient-packed snack? Watermelon might be the perfect treat. Originally from Africa, this hydrating fruit is now grown in warm climates around the world. Sweet, juicy, and full of health benefits, it’s a great addition to simple recipes that kids—and even a few pets—will love.
Watermelon contains more lycopene than any other fresh fruit or vegetable. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant linked to reduced risk of certain cancers, heart disease, and inflammation. Watermelon is also a good source of vitamins A, B6, and C, as well as potassium, making it both delicious and beneficial.
Want to boost your snack even more? Add chia seeds. These tiny seeds are rich in fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential minerals. When added to liquid, they expand into a gel-like texture, perfect for smoothies, puddings, or frozen treats.
Tasty, hydrating, and packed with nutrients—watermelon and chia make a powerhouse pair for summer snacking.
Watermelon Chia Seed Popsicles for Kids of All Ages
Ingredients:
- 4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 lime juice optional
- 1-2 T. chia seeds, optional
- Honey or maple syrup to taste
Instructions: Cut watermelon into cubes. Blend the watermelon, coconut milk, lime juice and sweetener in blender until smooth. Stir in chia seeds and let stand for 5-10 minutes to allow the chia seeds to slightly gel. Pour into popsicle molds (or use small plastic or paper cups); insert popsicle sticks. Freeze until solid. These popsicles will keep in the freezer for up to three months.
Fun Add-Ins: You can make these popsicles as-is or try adding in any of these fun ingredients:
- Fresh lemon juice (instead of lime)
- Plain or vanilla yogurt
- 2-3 mint leaves before blending
- A handful of peaches, raspberries, strawberries or cherries (fresh or frozen)
Frozen Watermelon Dog Treats
These frozen watermelon dog treats are the perfect way to keep your pups cool and happy—and they’re so simple, even kids can whip them up as a fun summer project! Watermelon is not only refreshing, it’s also a healthy, hydrating snack for dogs when served seedless and in moderation. For an extra fun touch for the kids helping out, silicone trays in shapes of bones, paws or other fun pet themes can be found online or in most local pet stores. Always be cautious of pet allergies and consult your dog’s veterinarian before introducing new foods.
Ingredients
- 3 cups seedless watermelon (no rind), chopped into chunks and ensure there are no seeds
- 7-oz. container of Greek yogurt
- Honey to taste (optional)
Instructions: Place watermelon chunks and yogurt in blender; blend until smooth. Taste and add a touch of honey if too tart; re-blend.
Place silicone trays on a baking sheet; pour watermelon mixture into molds (or ice cube trays.) Freeze for several hours, or until frozen solid. Remove from molds and place frozen dog treats into airtight container and store in freezer.
Frozen Watermelon Treats for Horses
Watermelon can be a refreshing and safe treat for horses, and offers a great source of hydration. The rind and seeds are even safe for horses to eat! It is always a good rule to check with your equine veterinarian before adding new foods, and always feed watermelon in moderation.
To prepare frozen watermelon treats for your horse or pony, puree the fruit, freezing it in ice cube trays or silicone molds. Add a fun, flavorful touch by pureeing in a bit of fresh mint, diluted apple juice or unsweetened applesauce. After freezing, remove the treats from trays or molds and store in airtight container in the freezer. Note: If you plan to freeze watermelon for your horses, always remove the rind before freezing—it can be difficult for horses to chew the rind when frozen.