Melons; are high in water content, which makes them excellent cleansers and re-hydrators. They are refreshing, diuretic and mildly laxative. This fruit comes in many different sizes, shapes and colours – cantaloupe, charentais, galia, honeydew, ogen, orange- and green-fleshed varieties, and the wonderful pink watermelon. All melons should feel heavy for their size and be well-shaped.
How to Choose Melons
Ripe melons should yield to gentle pressure from your thumbs at the stalk end and have a fragrant, slightly sweet scent. If they smell highly perfumed and musky, they will probably be over-ripe. A melon should feel heavy for its size and the skin should not be bruised or damaged. Avoid fruit that is wet, dented, bruised, or cracked.
Benefits of Melons
- Rich in Nutrients
- May Help Reduce Blood Pressure
- Contains Nutrients Vital to Bone Health
- May Improve Blood Sugar Control
- Rich in Electrolytes and Water
- May Support Healthy Skin
How to Store Melons
Most melons, except watermelon, continue to ripen after picking. If a melon seems underripe, store it at room temperature for a few days. Then refrigerate it and use within 3 days. Melons will ripen quickly at room temperature and should be eaten within two or three days.
How to Eat Melons
Best eaten alone, rather than with other fruits, and served slightly cold. Melons can be eaten as a starter, sometimes accompanied by wafer-thin prosciutto or cured meats. In the Mediterranean, melons and watermelons are often served as dessert fruit on their own, but sometimes appear as part of a fruit salad.
Nutrients and Calories
They contain calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, vitamins A and C, and beta-carotene.
Tips and Notes
Honeydew melon is made up of mostly water but also contains electrolytes that may hydrate you more effectively than just water alone.