PEPINO MELON

The Pepino melon, once found only in Peru, is now also grown in Ecuador, New Zealand, California and other subtropical climates. Shaped like a teardrop, the exotic Pepino melon has a soft, edible golden skin with distinctive purple and greenish-yellow striping. The flesh of the Pepino melon is valued for its light, pleasant scent of vanilla and notes of honey. Surprisingly, the flavor is a delicate combination of cantaloupe and honeydew melon combined. Pepino melon's are often enjoyed in fruit or spinach salads or simply cut in half and served individually, topped with a sprinkling of fresh lemon or lime juice and chile powder.

Selection A ripe Pepino Melon is characteristically striped vivid green and purple. If the creamy yellow background skin areas have a greenish tint, ripen Pepinos at room temperature, uncovered and out of direct sun. Once ripe, Pepino melon are fragrant and will yield slightly to pressure. Refrigerate ripe fruit for up to 3 days.