Wanna Try Something Better Than Cantaloupe?
It’s what cantaloupe used to be before it got boring. Here’s why this one’s worth knowing and tasting.
Being from Seattle I'm a stone fruit girl. Especially pears. Taylor Gold pears. Sigh So good...! But melons are next up for sure. Most particularly, the Tuscan melon.
It's like cantaloupe but better. Tuscan melon is what cantaloupe used to be before it was hybridized after WWII. When ripe it has this slight effervescence that makes it just fun, juicy, sweet and just all around yummy.
Aside from the incredible taste of this melon, it actually has health benefits that make it perfect for a July summer snack, side addition or even part of a juice or smoothie.
A Bit of History
Tuscan melons are a variety of Cucumis melo, the same species as cantaloupe and other muskmelons. They trace their roots to Italy, where regional farmers bred melons for fragrance, sweetness and texture. These older varieties were prized in Tuscany for their perfume-like aroma and deep orange flesh.
After WWII, U.S. agriculture started prioritizing produce that could survive long shipping times and sit longer on store shelves. In that process, the modern cantaloupe became firmer, less fragrant and honestly a little disappointing.
Tuscan melons kept their old-school flavor intact. Known for their dark green netted skin and soft, vibrant flesh, they deliver a bright, floral sweetness and sometimes even a natural fizz when perfectly ripe.
Also Worth Reading
If you’re looking to bring more seasonal ingredients into your kitchen or skincare routine, don’t skip the Local Honey post. It covers why local honey does more than sweeten your tea and how it supports everything from immune health to respiratory healing and even beauty care.
Read: Why Does ‘Local’ Matter When It Comes to Honey?
🌿 Modern Apothecary Tip
Tuscan melon isn’t just good for your body. It can be great for your skin too. With its high water content, vitamin C and natural enzymes, it’s a smart choice for summer skincare. When used fresh, it can help cool the skin, brighten dullness and leave your face feeling hydrated and refreshed.
I created a printable skincare card featuring the Golden Tuscan Mask. It’s an easy way to use fresh melon in your routine and works well after sun exposure, workouts or long summer days.
👉 Get the Golden Tuscan Mask here
Use it anytime your skin needs a refresh.
✨ Keep Reading
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How to use melon to refuel after movement
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