The Athena melon is a hybrid variety of cantaloupe that is botanically classified as a part of Cucumis melo reticulatus and a member of the Cucurbitaceae family. Botanically speaking it is a muskmelon though commercially in the United States we refer to the Athena and most other muskmelon types as cantaloupes.
Do Athena melons taste like cantaloupe?
In terms of flavor, the Athena cantaloupe has exceptional sweetness. The aromatics of this fruit are honey and floral with a sweet melon aroma. The scent will be most prominent at the stem end.
Is Athena cantaloupe a hybrid?
Athena Cantaloupe is a hybrid cantaloupe variety with a tough rind that holds well in the field and doesn’t crack easily.
What are the different names for cantaloupe?
People call the types of cantaloupe by many names, including muskmelons, sweet melons, rockmelons, or Cucumis melo (that is the scientific name). These refreshing summer fruits are all grouped as cantaloupes and get their name from the Italian Papal residence of Cantalupo. They have sticky insides and hard shells.
What’s the difference between Athena Melon and cantaloupe?
The Athena, with its netted skin and orange interior fruit, closely resembles a cantaloupe in appearance. However, this variety has a much higher sugar content and is larger in size, averaging 5 to 7 pounds per melon.
What is the season for Athena cantaloupes?
summer
Seasons/Availability
The Athena Melon is available in the summer.
What is a hybrid cantaloupe?
A great all-around cantaloupe for home gardeners, Athena Hybrid Cantaloupe consistently produces coarsely netted, 5-6 lb. fruits with outstanding flavor and an enticing aroma. The firm, salmon-colored flesh holds up well after harvest, too.
How do you know when Athena melon is ripe?
When checking for ripeness, depress the blossom end of the melon, opposite the stem end, to make sure it is not hard and yields slightly when depressed. And, the sweet aroma of the melon should be detectable. To ripen, place the melon in a paper bag at room temperature.
Which cantaloupe is sweetest?
Crenshaws also have peachy flesh, similar to a cantaloupe’s, which is juicy and sweet to taste. In fact, it is known to be one of the sweetest melons there is.
What’s the best tasting cantaloupe?
11 of the Best Cantaloupe Cultivars
- Charentais.
- El Gordo Hybrid.
- Hearts of Gold.
- Olympic Express Hybrid.
- Planters Jumbo.
- Sarah’s Choice Hybrid.
- Top Mark.
- Zena.
What is a true cantaloupe?
According to fruit experts, the true cantaloupe is a delicious cantaloupe known as the European cantaloupe. The striped European cantaloupe claims it’s the “true cantaloupe.”
Is there a difference between muskmelon and cantaloupe?
Muskmelon has tan and ribbed skin, with a sweet, musk-like taste and aroma. The flesh of the fruit has high water content and is orange in color. On the other hand, cantaloupe features net-like, light green skin, a central seed cavity, and salmon-hued flesh. It is also sweet.
Which is better muskmelon or cantaloupe?
Noticeably, the nutritional compositions of muskmelon varieties are similar. However, cantaloupe contains significantly more vitamin A and vitamin C than honeydew. It also has fewer calories and carbs and is slightly higher in fiber. Muskmelons are packed with vitamins and minerals.
Can dogs eat cantaloupe?
So, can dogs eat cantaloupe? Yes, the tasty melon is safe for pups to eat in moderation and can be a healthy alternative to traditional treats, especially if your dog is overweight. Even the seeds are harmless, but you should avoid feeding them to your dog intentionally, as they can be a choking hazard.
What is the best time to eat cantaloupe?
Summer
Eating fruits and vegetables that are in season offer the best tasting and nutrient rich diet. Consuming whole foods at their peak is the optimum way to nourish your body and maintain a healthy way of eating. Summer is the perfect time to enjoy a fresh, juicy cantaloupe from your garden or local farmers market.
How do you pick Athena Melon?
When checking for ripeness, depress the blossom end of the melon, opposite the stem end, to make sure it is not hard and yields slightly when depressed. And, the sweet aroma of the melon should be detectable. To ripen, place the melon in a paper bag at room temperature.
How do you sweeten a cantaloupe?
How Do You Sweeten a Cantaloupe? If your cantaloupe is not harvested in the right season, chances are it won’t be sweet. So you can sprinkle sugar or sugar substitute onto the cantaloupe and toss it gently until it has been evenly distributed.
What melon is a cross between cantaloupe honeydew?
Galia
Galia. A cross between a honeydew and a cantaloupe, a Galia melon’s rind is netted like a cantaloupe, but the smooth lime-green flesh is like a honeydew. Unlike many other melons, the tenderness of the stem end is not a good indicator of ripeness. Instead, use your nose to smell for its distinct tropical aroma.
Will cantaloupe and watermelon cross pollinate?
The short answer is, no. It’s fine to grow watermelons and cantaloupe side by side. Cross-pollination between melon varieties may occur, but not between watermelons (Citrullus lanatus v. lanatus) and cantaloupes (Cucumis melo ssp.
Is Ambrosia a cantaloupe?
Ambrosia melon is an exotic melon hybrid that might be confused with a cantaloupe, but it’s quite different. Its flesh is very sweet, tender and pale orange in color with a flavor described as “a combination of all melons plus flowers.” These melons prefer full sun and require an inch of water each week.
How do you ripen a cantaloupe quickly?
Set the cantaloupe in a paper bag once you want to speed up the ripening process. Keep it at room temperature during this process. Place ethylene-producing fruits such as an apple or banana in the paper bag with the cantaloupe to further speed up the ripening.
Elvira Bowen is a food expert who has dedicated her life to understanding the science of cooking. She has worked in some of the world’s most prestigious kitchens, and has published several cookbooks that have become bestsellers. Elvira is known for her creative approach to cuisine, and her passion for teaching others about the culinary arts.