Combine sweet, juicy watermelon chunks with fresh tomato, onion and a red wine vinaigrette for a salad that is the essence of summer.

5 cups (3/4-inch) seeded watermelon cubes 1 1/2 pounds ripe tomatoes, cut into 3/4-inch cubes 3 teaspoons sugar $ 1/2 teaspoon salt $ 1 small red onion, quartered and thinly sliced $ 1/2 cup red wine vinegar $ 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil $ Romaine lettuce leaves (optional) $ Cracked black pepper to taste $

1. Combine watermelon and tomatoes in a large bowl; sprinkle with sugar and salt, tossing to coat. Let stand 15 minutes.

2. Stir in onion, vinegar, and oil. Cover and chill 2 hours. Serve chilled with lettuce leaves, if desired. Sprinkle with cracked black pepper to taste.