good for you
Melons might be known in the produce world as a summer favorite because of their sweet flavor and high water content, but did you know they also contain high amounts of vitamin C, magnesium and potassium, which help prevent dehydration? That’s right! One cup of watermelon contains over half a cup of water, plus the potassium and magnesium help maintain a consistent fluid balance in your body. The mighty melon
Tips and insights from a registered dietitian
Story by Ashley Hawk
Watermelons and cantaloupes are the two most popular melons. Let’s take a look:
Taste: Watermelons have a sweet, juicy flavor, and their texture is crisp and firm. Cantaloupes have a sweet and slightly musky flavor with a softer, more tender flesh. Special nutrients: Watermelons contain lycopene, an antioxidant that helps prevent damage to cells in your body. Cantaloupe is rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants that give fruits and vegetables their yellow color. Growing conditions: Watermelons thrive in warm climates with plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil. They require a longer growing season than cantaloupes. Cantaloupes also prefer warm temperatures but can tolerate slightly cooler conditions. Both grow well in California.
Unique ways to enjoy melons Blend your watermelons with
Combine melon cubes with other fruits like berries, grapes and citrus fruits for a colorful and flavorful fruit salad. You can also add fresh mint leaves or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor. Dice melon into small pieces and mix it with diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cilantro, lime juice and a pinch of salt to create a delicious and refreshing salsa. Serve it with tortilla chips or use it as a topping for grilled fish or chicken.
some coconut water to create the perfect sunny-day melon cooler! Get creative and slice your watermelons in horizontal rounds, then top with yogurt and berries to make watermelon pizzas. Surprise your taste buds by grilling or roasting melon slices. Simply brush melon slices with a bit of olive oil and grill them for a few minutes on each side until they develop grill marks.
Ashley Hawk is a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutritional science. To learn more tips and tricks to help you feel your best, follow her at @ashleyhawkrd .
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Summer 2024
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