The golden honeydew melon is muskmelon variety falling under the honeydew cultivator group, Cucumis melo inodorus. The golden honeydew can also be found marketed under the name Golden Dewlicious. The Golden Dewlicious name is trademarked by Fisher Ranch Corporation in Blythe, California as of summer 2013.

The golden honeydew melon has a similar shape and texture to the common honeydew. Its most obvious difference is its bright golden-hued skin. When ripe its skin is firm, thin and smooth. Its flesh is succulent, velvety and sweet. A faint aroma and a slight opening at its blossom end will also indicate ideal ripeness. An overripe melon is soft to the touch and it will develop a bitter flavor in its flesh. Like other honeydew melons, the golden honeydew is relatively large, weighing an average of four to eight pounds.

Serving Ideas

All honeydew melon varieties are considered most suitable for raw preparations. Add chopped to cold soups and salads or serve alongside yogurt or cottage cheese. Puree and use to make sauces, smoothies and cocktails. Its sweet flavor is complemented by cucumber, mint, basil, citrus, red onion, blueberries, mango, robust cheeses, salted meats, honey, cream, black pepper and balsamic vinegar. Golden honeydew melons will keep at room temperature until fully ripe and refrigerated for up to a week.

Ethnic/Cultural Info

While commonly referred to as honeydew melon in America, in France honeydew type melons have long been known as White Antibes.

Geography/History

The golden honeydews parent variety, common honeydew melon was primarily cultivated in southern France and Algeria as early as the late fifteenth century. All honeydew plants thrive in a hot dry climate. Wet off-season planting will produce low yields, smaller fruits and less resistance to disease and pests.

Seasons/Availability

Golden honeydew melons are available during the summer season.