Christmas MelonSanta Claus melon, sometimes known as Christmas melon or piel de sapo, is a variety of melon that grows to about a foot in length and is oval in shape. It has a thick, green-striped outer rind, pale green to white inner flesh with a mild melon flavor, and sweetness close to honeydew melons, if not more so.
A Santa Claus melon is usually consumed for breakfast, lunch, dessert, or as a snack. The melon should be slightly soft, especially on the ends, and should be washed, split in half length-wise, and its seeds spooned out. It is similar to a cantaloupe on the inside.
Description
It has a blotched green peel after which it is named in Spanish. A closely related melon with the same shape but with yellow peel is known as 'Amarillo' or canary melon. The attractive green and gold-to-bright yellow-striped Santa Claus melon somewhat resembles a small watermelon. Inside is a mellow and mildly flavored pale greenish flesh very similar to that of a honeydew. The ripest Santa Claus melon will have soft blossom ends that yield to gentle pressure and a vibrant yellow hue. Because of its thick skin, this melon does not release a telltale aroma when ripe.
Uses
The flesh of uncut melons is juicier and softer if kept at room temperature one or two days before serving. Once ripened or cut, it should be refrigerated in plastic.
Nutritional value
