honeydew

Honeydew is a cultivar of Cucumis melo, a sweet melon widely grown for fresh consumption. In common usage, honeydew refers to melons with pale green flesh and a smooth, waxy rind, distinguishing them from cantaloupes that have a netted rind.

Appearance and flavor: The rind is typically pale green to yellowish-white and smooth; the flesh is pale green to white and very sweet, with a mild aroma. The fruit contains a central cavity with seeds and fibrous material.

Cultivation: Honeydews thrive in warm climates with long growing seasons. They are grown in many parts of North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Market varieties differ mainly in rind color and sweetness; when harvested, they are usually mature but not overripe.

Storage and handling: Store uncut honeydew at cool room temperature to allow ripening, or refrigerate once ripe. After cutting, wrap the exposed flesh and refrigerate, consuming within a few days for best quality.

Nutrition and uses: Honeydew is low in fat and calories and provides vitamin C and potassium. It is commonly eaten fresh, added to fruit salads, smoothies, or desserts.