Melon sits high among summer favorites. It is among the most enjoyed fruits by Spaniards and, though it belongs to the cucurbitaceae family, it is often treated as a vegetable like cucumber or pumpkin. Watermelon shares this classification. Although it is technically a fruit, it sits prominently on the table like melon.
Its origin remains uncertain, with some tracing it to Asia and others to Africa. What is clear is that representations of this delicacy appeared around 4400 years ago in Egyptian tombs.
Melon offers a bounty of vitamins and minerals, making it a highly recommended food. It is a notable source of vitamin C, supporting the normal functioning of the immune system and shielding cells from oxidative damage. Potassium is another standout mineral, beneficial for the nervous system and for regulating blood pressure. Along with orange, the melon ranks among the fruits with higher folate content, helping to reduce fatigue. At 28 calories per 100 grams and only about 6% sugar, it is one of the foods richest in water, making it ideal for maintaining a healthy diet, according to nutritienda.com, a leading online health and beauty retailer.
There are more than 850 melon varieties available year round, though summer is the peak season due to its refreshing, sweet, and light flavor. Knowing how to pick a good melon is not always easy, so here are practical tips to bring home a delicious one.
A young woman enjoys a juicy slice of melon. EPC
There are over 850 types and they can be bought year-round, though summer brings the highest demand. The fruit is known for its refreshing taste and pale sweetness, but selecting a ripe melon requires some know-how to ensure the best flavor.
Observe the appearance
The melon should be free of dents or cracks and possess a firm texture. It is often best to choose melons from the upper shelves in stores, as they tend to have fewer impacts during handling.
Check the color
The exterior should show the natural melon color, typically with a slight yellowing. A lack of shine indicates ripeness, while a very dark tint can suggest over-maturity. A medium green with a hint of yellow is a good benchmark for readiness.
Consider the weight
Weight is a reliable indicator: for a similar size, a heavier melon usually contains more water and remains juicier.
Firmness matters
Gently press the surface. If it yields too easily, it may be past its prime. A balanced give suggests good condition, while excessive softness points to overripeness.
The hollow sound test
A simple tap can reveal ripeness. A solid, dull sound means it is still green, while a clear hollow tone signals readiness.
Smell test
A sweet aroma at the blossom end indicates ripeness. If the scent is faint or absent, the melon may not be fully developed yet.
Taste clues
Finally, the pattern on the rind can hint at sweetness. Concentric lines often indicate a female variety with sweeter flesh, whereas longitudinal stripes are typical of male varieties and can be less sweet. In some markets these more subtly sweet melons are rarer and frequently found in select locations.
Spain hosts many melon varieties, with pieces of the piel de sapo variety being especially popular during the warm season. Melons come in hues of orange, yellowish, or even white with orange insides, but all true melons share a juicy, hydrating core. A gelatinous seed cavity surrounds the central area; while the seeds are commonly discarded, the surrounding tissue contains vitamins A, B6, B12, E and D as well as minerals like sodium, iron, potassium, and calcium, offering immune-supporting benefits when included in the diet.