Choosing a Melon- Minty Melon Salad

Live Holistically is a multi-author site.
This post was written by: Pat Kennelly

At the farmers’ market it’s easy to find a ripe melon. The vendor offers samples and will usually choose one for you. But when you’re faced with a pile of melons at the supermarket, how do you know which one’s ripe? Follow your nose and use your senses.

Look for bruises, pits and soft spots. If they’re there put back that melon and choose another one.
Smell the melon, if you don’t smell a ripe, melon fragrance it’s not ready to eat. A ripe melon will smell like a melon.
Hold the melon in your hand it should feel heavy for its size. A heavier melon is ripe and ready to eat.
If you still don’t know ask the produce manager for a sample. They should be very knowledgable about their produce. Most grocery stores will offer a sample if asked and many gourmet supermarkets will always have samples available.
The most common melons in North America are cantaloupe, Honeydew and watermelon but experiment with the new melons on the market. Try pairing a sweet melon with a savory side. A classic combination is prosciutto with cantaloupe but have you ever tried watermelon with feta cheese? It’s surprisingly good.

Minty Melon Salad

1/2 ripe cantaloupe-seeds removed and cut into chunks
1/2 ripe Tuscan seedless watermelon-cut into chunks
1/2 ripe Honeydew-seeds removed and cut into chunks
2 cups fresh berries, raspberries, blueberries or strawberries
1 small bunch of mint leaves-roll the leaves together and cut into thin strips (chiffonade)

1/4 cup local honey (more or less depending on sweetness of melon)
1/2 cup fresh orange juice
1 lemon- juiced

1/2 cup Greek style yogurt mixed with 1/4 tsp. cinnamon (optional)

Heat the honey in a small saucepan until runny. Whisk in orange juice and lemon juice. Set aside and cool to room temperature. When cool, place all melons in a large bowl and toss with the honey-juice mixture and the fresh mint leaves. Gently toss in the berries. Serve immediately topped with yogurt if desired.