How to Choose a Ripe Melon

Cantaloupe-CAST Method

Choosing a ripe melon will ensure you are using the right piece of fruit to create any successful recipe.

Use the CAST method to pick the perfect melon!

COLOR– The color should be tan/neutral color with no green undertones.

AROMA-The aroma will be fragrant with a sweet melon smell. This smell is evident that the melon is sweet and ripe.

SLIP– (that is the belly button of the melon). This is where the melon was separated from the vine. This should happen naturally as the melon ripens, it will fall off the vine. If there is evidence of a stem attached or if there is appearance of a knife cutting it from the vine, this melon was picked too early and may not have peaked in flavors.

TOUCH-The area around the “Slip” should be soft and pliable. This should not be too soft where it penetrates the melon when touched. This is an indicator of the melon with a soft flesh that is ripe to eat.

Keep food safety in mind and wash your fruit before you use.

If you choose a melon with all the characteristics above in the CAST method, you are sure to pick the perfect melon!