6 melons you should eat this summer (it’s not just watermelon)

Summer and melons are a perfect fruity pair. When the sun is blazing and the heat feels never-ending, biting into a juicy melon feels like pressing the refresh button. While watermelon often steals the spotlight, there is a whole group of other melons ready to make summer sweeter, cooler, and much more nutritious. These juicy treats are full of water, low in calories, and rich in vitamins your body will be happy to receive. Let’s go beyond the usual red-and-green combo and enjoy all the melon magic this season has to offer.

This sweet, fragrant melon is a summer staple in many Indian homes. It’s packed with vitamin A and C, which help boost immunity and keep your skin glowing. Muskmelon is also high in water content, making it perfect for hydration and digestion. Just slice it up or toss it into fruit chaat for a refreshing treat.

Cantaloupe looks a lot like muskmelon, but don’t confuse the two. It has a firmer texture and a slightly different flavour. Rich in beta-carotene and antioxidants, cantaloupe supports eye health and helps fight free radicals. Blend it into smoothies or enjoy it as is for a sweet, healthy snack.

With its pale green flesh and mild sweetness, honeydew often gets overlooked in the melon family. But this one’s a winner when it comes to hydration. It’s full of vitamin C and potassium, which help maintain electrolyte balance. Add it to salads or enjoy chilled slices for a cool and juicy bite.

Also known as phut or mateera in some parts of India, snap melon is crisp and slightly tangy. It’s not too sweet, but it’s incredibly refreshing. It’s low in calories and high in fibre, making it a smart pick if you’re watching your weight or looking to improve digestion. A dash of black salt over freshly cut pieces makes it even better.

Despite the name, winter melon is a summer hero. Also called ash gourd or petha, this large, waxy melon is used more in cooking than in raw snacking. It’s known for its cooling effect on the body and is often used in detox juices and soups. It helps reduce heat in the body and supports liver health too.

Technically a melon, bitter gourd isn’t sweet or juicy, but it’s a powerhouse of health benefits. It’s often included in summer diets to manage blood sugar and improve skin health. Juice it with caution, or sauté it with onions and spices to balance out the bitterness.