What is Muskmelon (Differences Between Muskmelon and Cantaloupe)
on May 02, 2022
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With the summer months fast approaching, there’ll be more options to try at local fruit stands. One of the fruits we really enjoy is Muskmelon. If you haven’t tried muskmelon, it’s a close cousin to cantaloupe.
In this post, we’ll take a closer look at this sweet melon, and how it compares to cantaloupe.
What is Muskmelon?
Muskmelon gets its name from the fragrance of its flesh, which has a musky aroma.
It is a round melon that can have a smooth or textured rind, and orange colored flesh that can be bland in flavor or very sweet.
Muskmelon is part of the gourd family and is closely related to watermelon, zucchini, squash, and pumpkin.
What is Cantaloupe?
This may surprise you, but cantaloupe is actually a type of muskmelon. It has a netted rind and orange colored flesh that’s juicy and sweet when ripe.
Differences Between Muskmelon and Cantaloupe
Cantaloupe is a type of muskmelon. All cantaloupes are muskmelons but not all muskmelons are cantaloupes.
The color of muskmelon flesh can range from orange to green and can be pale or dark. The texture of the flesh can be stiff, soft, or crunchy, while cantaloupe tends to have a tender texture. Muskmelon and cantaloupe have similar nutritional values and health benefits.
Muskmelon | Cantaloupe | |
Appearance | Smooth, ribbed, or netted rind in different colors. The aroma can be neutral or musky. | Net-like rind that changes from green to yellow as the fruit ripens. |
Flesh | Yellow, orange, or green flesh. | Orange flesh. |
Flavor | Bland or sweet. | Typically sweeter. |
Ways to Use Muskmelon
Muskmelon is a delicious and healthy fruit.
- Cut it into cubes and add it to a fresh fruit salad.
- Blend it into smoothies or use it to make sorbet.
- Add it to a juicer with other fruits.
- Wash, dry, and roast the seeds for a crunchy snack.
Are Muskmelon Seeds Edible?
Yes. Similar to pumpkin seeds, the seeds of muskmelon can be dried, roasted, and enjoyed as a snack.
How to Tell If A Melon Is Ripe
Ripe muskmelon or cantaloupe will feel heavy for its size and may have a fragrant aroma. The color of cantaloupe skin will typically change from green to yellow, although some varieties remain green even when ripe. The stem end of the melon is slightly soft when the fruit is ripe. Choose melons that are free of dark or very soft spots.
How to Eat Muskmelon
Ingredients
- 1 muskmelon, ripe
Instructions
- Use the knife to remove the skin.
- Then cut it into wedges. Then cut them into cubes. Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition information provided is an estimate only and will vary based on ingredient brands and cooking methods used.