Peak Season Picks
Peak Season Picks

Variety Melons

Variety Melons

What sets a melon apart from other fruits?

Melons are members of the Cucurbitaceae family, and botanically speaking, a kind of berry. With more than 25 different varieties, you’re sure to find one to please every member of the family. The rarest, and most expensive melon is the Yubari King melon, grown only in a small region of Japan, and costing up to $20,000!

When do melons first come into season?

The Peak Season for melons varies with variety, starting as early as April. Galia and Orange-Fleshed Honeydew season is May through August, Sprite Melon’s peak is June & July, Crenshaw Melon season is August through September. Watermelon is typically a summer fruit, but depending on your region you can find fresh watermelon from May to September.

What are the health benefits of melons?

Each variety of melons have health benefits – Honeydew has potassium levels that rival bananas; watermelon is high in lycopene, an antioxidant that may help prevent several types of cancer; and cantaloupe is packed with vitamin A which is vital for healthy hair. Melons contain collagen which aids in the healing of wounds and has anti-ageing benefits.

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Pair it with these!

Prophecy Pinot Grigio

Prophecy Pinot Grigio

Flavors of light citrus, tropical fruit and mineral notes are complemented by the delicate sweetness of the melons, creating a crisp and refreshing pairing.

Melon with Serrano-Mint Syrup

Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1/3 cup water
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon minced serrano pepper
  • 1/4 cup minced fresh mint
  • 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
  • 4 cups each cubed watermelon, cantaloupe and honeydew

Instructions

  • In a small saucepan, bring sugar, water, lemon juice, honey and serrano pepper to a boil; cook 3-5 minutes or until slightly thickened. Remove from heat; stir in mint and lemon peel. Cool completely.
  • Strain syrup; discard pepper, mint and lemon zest. In a large bowl, combine melons. Add syrup; gently toss to coat. Refrigerate, covered, at least 2 hours, stirring several times.

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