Arava melons are a hybrid variety of melon and member of the Cucurbitaceae family, a wide ranging important food plant family of traveling vines, including cucumbers, pumpkins and squashes. The arava melon is a true muskmelon variety and classified scientifically as Cucumis melo reticulatus 'arava'. A type of galia melon, other common marketing names are Middle Eastern melon, Passport, Mediterranean or Israeli melons.

Arava melons are distinguished by their textured thin netted pale cornflower gold rind and their high sugar content. The pale glacial green flesh is perfumed with tropical fruit and floral aromatics, its texture tender, firm and extremely juicy. When perfectly ripe the fruit's flesh produces juice with a nectarous consistency which contributes to its sweet tropical flavor. The fruit bears a small loose central seed cavity. The average weight of the melons are two to four pounds. Arava melons will continue to ripen when removed from the plant.

Serving Ideas

Arava melons can be used as a substitute for honeydew melons. They are best suited for fresh eating in salads and appetizers or used as the principle ingredient in a chilled summer soup, granitas, sorbets and popsicles. The sweetness of arava melons can be highlighted with tart, spicy, cooling and savory ingredients. Choice companions include herbs such as basil, mint, cilantro and arugula, lemons and limes, chiles, nuts such as pistachios and peanuts, ginger, vanilla, proscuitto, figs and grapes. Whole ripe arava melons will keep, refrigerated, for up to seven days.

Geography/History

The arava melon is a notably high-yielding variety that is named for the long valley that traverses much of the desolate Negev Desert in southern Israel. It is a signature variety sold throughout markets in Israel. Arava melons thrive in temperate and warm regions throughout the Mediterranean and the Americas. They also grow well in hot, dry desert climates throughout the summer months.

Seasons/Availability

Arava melons are available during the summer season.