Buzz
Honeydew, with its sweet and slightly floral flavor, is a beloved summer fruit. When picking one out at the grocery store, aim for a honeydew melon with a creamy-colored rind and smooth, waxy skin that yields gently when pressed. A ripe honeydew should also emit a sweet fragrance and sound hollow when tapped. Once you’ve selected a ripe honeydew (or two), try it in a refreshing ginger-lime melon salad, served as wedges, or paired with thinly sliced prosciutto. Keep reading to discover the best ways to store honeydew and keep this juicy fruit at its peak freshness.
How to Store a Whole Honeydew
To store a whole honeydew, especially one that isn’t quite ripe yet, place it at room temperature on the countertop. This will allow it to ripen, and it should stay fresh for about three to five days. If you prefer to slow down the ripening process, store it in the refrigerator where it can last one to two weeks, depending on how ripe it was when purchased.
Paopano/Getty ImagesHow to Store Cut Honeydew
Because honeydew has a high water content, it tends to spoil quickly once cut. To keep it fresh for as long as possible, store the cut pieces in an airtight food storage container in the refrigerator. This method will help preserve its freshness for about three to five days.
Can You Freeze Honeydew?
Yes, you can freeze honeydew, but keep in mind that the texture of the melon will change significantly. While frozen honeydew won’t work well in a fresh salad, it’s perfect for use in smoothies, sorbets, popsicles, and juices. You can keep your honeydew in the freezer for an indefinite period, though it’s best used within a year for optimal flavor and texture.
Steps to Freeze Honeydew
- Peel the rind off the honeydew and cut the melon into bite-sized pieces.
- Arrange the pieces in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and freeze for a few hours.
- Once the pieces are completely frozen, transfer them to an airtight container and store it back in the freezer.
