Melons are nutritional low-cal powerhouses that provide hydration and are a delicious summer treat. Bursting with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, they offer an array of health benefits that make them an ideal addition to your diet. Eating melons in the summer is a healthy and economical decision.

“Mmmmm, this melon is so sweet.”

“I can tell you’re really enjoying,” laughed LJ as he wiped juice off Annie’s chin.

“The flavor is intense. There’s nothing quite like eating fruit right off the vine. Have a bite,” said Annie offering a piece.

LJ bit into the watermelon. “Hmmm. This is probably the sweetest melon I’ve tasted in a long time.  The store-bought variety doesn’t hold a candle to fresh off the vine.”

Early that day, he and Annie woke before sunrise to get a start on the day. The morning air was already warm, promising a scorching afternoon ahead. It was time for their yearly summer tradition–a visit to the Patel’s farm to pick melons.

Annie silently marveled at the countryside’s vibrant colors as they made their way to the farm. The fields were lush green, and the sweet fragrance of blooming flowers filled the air. LJ remarked on the number of soaring hawks and other birds welcoming the dawn as if sharing their enthusiasm for the day ahead.

Arriving at the farm, they were greeted by their warm-hearted friends, Uday and Nishi. The foursome were good friends, bonding through their love of sustainable, earth-friendly planting practices. The Patel’s, who had been successfully farming for decades, were known for their exceptional produce, particularly their melons, renowned throughout the county for their exceptional taste and juicy goodness.

The reason for their early morning visit was simple – melons are best when picked in the morning’s coolness. As Annie and LJ made their way through the sprawling melon fields, they spotted watermelon, Honeydew, cantaloupe, Galia, and Crenshaw melons glistening under the morning dew.

“What’s the plan, sweetheart?”

LJ looked out at the field and glanced at the sky. “How about you go for the watermelons, and I’ll concentrate on the others? Remember to choose melons that feel heavy for their size, smell good, and are free from bruises. They’ll be the ones with the best flavor and quality.

“Sounds good.” Annie adjusted her hat, picked up the wheelbarrow, and headed to the furthest row.

They worked methodically and carefully, selecting the ripest melons. Once they filled each wheelbarrow and began walking back to the farmhouse, they contemplated the delightful summer recipes they would make with their freshly picked melons.

“Our neighbors are going to love these watermelons. Think about how cool and delicious they’ll taste in this sweltering heat.”

“Yeah, they will. Watermelon is hydrating, aids digestion, and is a source of vitamins C and A and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Be sure to put several aside for us, Annie. I want to make a Watermelon Smoothie, and I will cut up the rest and freeze it to use when winter is getting us down, and we need a reminder of summer.”

“Now that’s what I call planning. If you concentrate on the watermelon, I’ll tackle the cantaloupe. I love their taste. I’m going to make a Cantaloupe Cucumber salad when we get home. Since cantaloupes are rich in vitamin C, an immune booster, and vitamin A, which supports skin health, it will be perfect for a day like today.

LJ paused to wipe his brow and adjust his hat. “The salad sounds perfect. I also want to be in charge of my favorite, the honeydew melons. I’ll make a Honeydew Melon Sorbet. Honeydew is hydrating because of its high water content, is naturally sweet, a good potassium source, and loaded with Vitamins A and C.

By the way, what do you know about these Galia melons?”

“Well, first I love Galia’s. They look like a cross between cantaloupes and honeydew. They are actually a hybrid of cantaloupe, and some say are sweeter. Galias are a good source of fiber, loaded with vitamin A, potassium, and antioxidant flavonoids.  They go great in a Galia Melon Milkshake, which takes only minutes to make.”

“When we get home, do you mind making one for me?”

Annie gave him the side eye. “Sure, sweetheart. I’ll make one for you. I’m curious about these Crenshaw melons. I’ve never had one. Have you?

“Actually, yes, Crenshaw melons are a hybrid of Persia and Casaba melons. They are the biggest melons and are high in iron, calcium, potassium, and fiber. Their flesh is sweet and makes a delicious chilled Melon Soup appetizer or first course on a hot day.”

“We are certainly going to need a lot of hydration after being outside in the heat, so I’m looking forward to chilled soup.”

As the sun rose higher in the sky, casting a golden glow over the farm, Annie and LJ finished loading their harvest in the car, thanked Uday and Nishi for their hospitality, and set off toward home The melons they picked would brighten their own summer days but also bring joy to their family, friends and the local food bank.

Annie and LJ are a fictional couple. Their storyline promotes healthy eating and earth-friendly practices.