Leeanna McKamey, SNAP-Ed Program Assistant
OSU Extension/Highland County
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Did you know that melons are in the same gourd family as squashes and cucumbers? The difference is in the way they are used. Melons are considered a fruit because of their sweet flavor, while squashes are considered a savory vegetable. Countless varieties of melons exist, with cantaloupe, honeydew, and watermelon being the most common. Melons make the perfect snack or dessert because of their sweet and juicy flavor.
SHOP SMART
Melons are available year-round in most grocery stores, but are in season in Ohio from July until September. When shopping for melons, choose regularly shaped fruit-round, oval or oblong-that is free of cracks, soft spots, or dark bruises. Although it is not always possible to tell if a melon is ripe, two clues are a slight softness to the rind, and a full, fruity fragrance. Melons may become softer if left to ripen, but will not become sweeter once picked.
EAT HEALTHY
Melons are:
A good source of Vitamin A (cantaloupe)
- A good source of Vitamin C
- A good source of Potassium
- Cholesterol free
- Low in sodium, fat and calories
KEEP IT SAFE
These food safety tips will help protect you and your family:
- Wash hands for 20 seconds with warm water and soap before and after preparing food.
- Store uncut melons at room temperature for up to 3 days if they need to ripen.
- Scrub and rinse melons thoroughly under cool, running water before peeling or cutting.
- Cut up only as much as you plan to eat.
- Cover the cut end of any leftover melon and store in the refrigerator.
- Cut off and discard ¼ inch of the cut end of the melon before using.
Icy Fruit Pops
Serves 4
2 cups strawberries or 3 cups chopped kiwi fruit or 3 cups chopped cantaloupe
1 cup 100% Orange Juice
4 7 oz. paper cups
4 craft sticks or plastic spoons
Directions
- Place fruit and orange juice in a blender container. Put lid on tightly. Blend until smooth.
- Pour mixture into four paper cups. Place cups in freezer until partially frozen, about 1 hour.
- Place craft sticks or plastic spoons in center of cups. Place in the freezer for 3 hours or until firm. To serve, peel away paper cup or run paper cup under warm water to loosen the fruit pop.