Green melon 'Napoletano' (Cucumis melo), offered by the seed company Weston Seeds
Think again! Despite its sober and discreet appearance, the green melon 'Napoletano' is a fruit with many facets. Also known as Valenciano Precoce, this Italian heritage melon is reminiscent of honeydew melon with its pale white, juicy and refreshing flesh. Its sweet and subtle taste makes it a perfect ingredient for summer salads, thirst-quenching smoothies or even gourmet desserts. Its little secret? It pairs wonderfully with contrasting flavors such as raw ham, feta or a touch of lime to reveal all its freshness. Whether as a refined starter or a refreshing snack, this melon knows how to be appreciated in all its forms!
Days to maturity: 95 to 100 days
Fruit size: 5 to 8 pounds (2.5 to 4 kg)
Height: 12 to 16 inches
Spacing: 30 to 38 inches
Sowing: Direct sowing
Exposure: Full sun
Quantity per pack: Untreated, GMO-free seeds
Cultivation method
Choose a warm, south-facing site that is sheltered from the wind. Sow 3-4 seeds per hill at a depth of 2.5 cm (1"), spacing the hills 1.5-2 m (4-6') apart. Once the seedlings have emerged, thin out to 3-4 plants per hill.
In short-season areas, start indoors 4 weeks before the last frost in biodegradable pots, then transplant outdoors when the soil is at least 70°F (21°C). Water regularly to encourage good fruiting and mulch the soil to maintain moisture. The melon is ready to harvest when its base turns a light golden brown and it begins to give off a subtle, sweet fragrance.
Recipe idea: Green melon and fresh mint salad
Dice the melon and mix with cucumber slices, fresh mint leaves and a squeeze of lime juice. Add some crumbled feta for a salty touch and enjoy chilled!
Refreshing Green Melon and Lime Smoothie
Ingredients :
- 2 cups diced green 'Napoletano' melon
- 1 very ripe banana (for a creamy texture)
- The juice of one lime
- 1/2 cup almond milk or coconut milk (your choice)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- A few leaves of fresh mint
- 4 to 5 ice cubes
Preparation :
- In a blender, add the melon, banana, lime juice and plant-based milk.
- Blend until smooth and homogeneous.
- Add the ice cubes and blend again for a nice cold smoothie.
- Taste and add honey if needed, according to your preference.
- Serve immediately in a tall glass, garnish with a mint leaf and enjoy!
💡 Tasty tip: For an even more refreshing version, freeze the melon pieces before blending them!
This smoothie is perfect to quench your thirst on hot days and highlight the sweetness of the 'Napoletano' melon. 😋🥤💚
A fresh, versatile and irresistible melon!
Don't be fooled by its discreet appearance, the green melon 'Napoletano' is a taste treasure that adapts to all your desires. Whether as a sophisticated starter, a refreshing smoothie or a gourmet dessert, it will bring a Mediterranean touch to your summer harvests!
