We grow two different varieties of Melon at Evolve Farm. A traditional Cantaloupe with an extra sweet orange flesh and an heriloom Honeydew with a soft green flesh.
How to Pick the Perfect Melon
Melons are best when picked at peak ripeness. Here’s how to find the perfect honeydew or cantaloupe:
Step-by-Step Picking Tips:
Check the color:
- Honeydew: Look for a pale yellow to creamy white color. A greenish hue means it’s not quite ripe yet!
- Cantaloupe: The skin should have a tan or light beige netting pattern over an orange base. Avoid any green skin.
Feel for firmness:
- Press gently at the blossom end (opposite of the stem). The melon should give slightly but not feel too soft.
Sniff for sweetness:
- A ripe melon should have a sweet, fragrant aroma, especially around the stem end. The stronger the smell, the riper the fruit!
Nutritional Benefits
Melons are not only refreshing but packed with health benefits! Both honeydew and cantaloupe are:
- High in Vitamin C: Boosts immunity and skin health.
- Hydrating: Full of water to keep you refreshed on a hot day.
- Low in Calories: A perfect guilt-free summer snack.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Cantaloupe is especially high in beta-carotene, which supports eye health.
How to Store Your Melons
To keep your melons fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
Before cutting:
Store whole melons at room temperature. They’ll last about a week on the counter. Once ripe, refrigerate them to keep freshness for a few extra days.After cutting:
Cover sliced melons tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Pro Tip: If you cut a melon before it’s fully ripe, leave it on the counter for a day or two before refrigerating to improve flavor.
Easy Ways to Preserve Melons
Make the most of your melon haul by preserving them for later! Here are some easy methods:
Freeze melon cubes:
Cut your honeydew or cantaloupe into bite-sized pieces. Spread them on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Use them in smoothies or frozen treats!Melon Popsicles:
Puree melon flesh and pour into popsicle molds. Freeze for a few hours and enjoy a refreshing summer snack!
Three Easy Melon Recipes
From refreshing sorbets to savory bites, these easy melon recipes will showcase the sweet, juicy flavor of your freshly picked honeydew and cantaloupe.
Honeydew Melon Sorbet
Ingredients:
- 4 cups honeydew, cubed
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar (optional)
Directions:
- Blend the honeydew, lime juice, and sweetener until smooth.
- Pour into a freezer-safe container and freeze for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally until frozen.
Cantaloupe & Prosciutto Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 cantaloupe, cubed
- Thin slices of prosciutto
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Directions:
- Wrap each cantaloupe cube with a slice of prosciutto.
- Skewer with a toothpick and garnish with fresh basil. Serve chilled!
Melon Fruit Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cups honeydew, cubed
- 2 cups cantaloupe, cubed
- 1 cup mixed berries (optional)
- 1 tbsp honey
- Juice of 1 lime
Directions:
- Toss honeydew, cantaloupe, and berries in a large bowl.
- Drizzle with honey and lime juice. Gently mix and serve chilled.