As it gets darker and wetter, you might think it’s time to ditch salads in favour of warming soups and stews. But we’re arguing that this year, it’s worth trying to prolong summer for as long as possible. And what better way to do so than with a watermelon salad?

This recipe is packed with all kinds of flavours and plants, from hydrating cucumbers to immunity-supporting ginger, protein-packed cashews and gut-loving miso. And watermelon itself has so many more benefits than simply keeping thirst at bay: it’s packed with vitamin C, antioxidants and lycopene – all of which have been found to lower inflammation and oxidative damage.

This recipe uses a pack of Eatplanted pulled mock duck, but there are plenty of other plant-based alternatives out there if you don’t live near a Planet Organic or can’t buy it online. This particular brand, however, is made from 32% plant proteins and pea fibre, and has been fortified with vitamin B12 and iron – so you know that you’re getting a nutritional bang for your cruelty-free buck.

This protein-rich vegan duck and watermelon salad will soothe your post-holiday blues