The melon is a fruit with a fleshy texture and a sweet taste, which can be consumed throughout the year thanks to the different seasons in the two hemispheres. The melon contains some seeds that are concentrated in its central cavity. There are many kinds of melons, which are grouped into three main varieties and which determine their shape and colour. The smooth or winter melon is elongated, with green or yellow skin, and reddish yellow, green or white flesh. The reticular or summer melon is round, with a wrinkled skin with cream-colored markings, and an orange or pale green flesh. The Cantaloupe melon, small in size, round and flat, has smooth skin, yellowish bumps, green bands, and reddish-yellow flesh. The varieties that stand out in the Spanish market are the Piel de Sapo and the Amarillo.

The melon has its origin in warm countries of Africa and Asia. It is of great commercial importance in Spain, especially in the eastern and southern areas. Other countries with great melon production are: Brazil, France, Italy, Turkey, Greece, Portugal, Egypt,

It is necessary to highlight the very high water content of the melon. The melon is ideal for relaxing, thanks to its content of potassium, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus, as well as iron, zinc and iodine.

To enjoy its taste qualities, you need to consume it raw, fresh, and at its ripening point. As a dessert, alone or in fruit salads, in juice, sorbet, cream... it is a sweet fruit with a lot of flavor, pleasant to the palate. It is also consumed as a starter, with ham or as a garnish accompanying other dishes.

The best way to keep melons ready to eat is to keep them in a cool, ventilated place, but not in the fridge. It is only recommended to leave the melon in the fridge for one or two hours before serving it, since it is very refreshing when cold, especially in summer.