Have you ever eaten an Athena Melon? I am about to for the first time!

[Breeze54]

Athena Melon

http://www.hormel.com/kitchen/glossary.asp?id=38031

A type of muskmelon that has a longer ripening life, allowing it to remain firm and sweeter flavored without becoming soft. When ripe, the outer skin of this melon develops the appearance of coarse, embossed netting covering an orange inner flesh that is sweet and tender. In the U.S. where muskmelons are often referred to as cantaloupes but are not the same as European cantaloupes, Athena melons would be considered to be one of the larger varieties of cantaloupe. A typical Athena melon will weigh 5 to 7 pounds, so it will be somewhat larger in size and weight than some of the smaller varieties of muskmelon.

When checking for ripeness, depress the blossom end of the melon, opposite the stem end, to make sure it is not hard and yields slightly when depressed. And, the sweet aroma of the melon should be detectable. To ripen, place the melon in a paper bag at room temperature. To store, place ripe melons uncut in a plastic bag to be refrigerated for up to a week. When serving, add a little lemon or lime juice to enhance the flavor of the fruit.


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Athena Cantaloupe

http://www.lovemycountry.com/tips/2003/05_may/tip_athenacantaloup_052103.html

Athena cantaloupes are from Florida and Georgia and otherwise known as a musk melon.
They are exceptionally large in size with a wonderful aroma and taste.
The name cantaloupe is thought to derive from “cantaloup”, a village in southern France,
and they are originally from the European continant. Athena are a very short crop so make
sure you don’t miss out.


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It's huge!!

I got one of those and a regular cantaloupe.

Going to have some for my breakfast!

[Breeze54]

1. Okay. I just cut them open.

Athena melon at top of pic.


Athena slice at top of pic.


The Athena is much sweeter!! The other regular cantaloupe tastes a little sour, in comparison.

I'm sold, from now on I'm buying Athena cantaloupe melons!

[Breeze54]

2. I just ate two slices and I'm still hungry!

Now what should I have to eat?? :shrug:

I shouldn't be that hungry after that but my stomach is growling...

Hmmmm..... I'm going to have to get out the strawberries! Yum!