A MARKET FIND SENDS US ON A MISSION
Tucked into a produce display were the tiniest little “watermelons” you’ve ever seen. Naturally, they had to come home with me. I picked one up to take a closer look… and before I could even say the word cucamelon, Ihana was already there.
One very serious investigation underway.
That “ready-to-nose boop the cucamelon moment” … you know the one. So the research begins!!
It saw the salad dressing.
Cucamelons (Melothria scabra), also charmingly called “mouse melons,” are just as delightful as they look — about the size of a grape, crisp like a cucumber, with a light citrusy lime zing that makes them feel extra special. The kind of thing you pop into your mouth straight from the basket… or, in Ihana’s case, consider very carefully first.
They’re little climbing vines, happy in the sun with something to wander up — a trellis, a cage, anything they can reach for. With regular watering and a bit of warmth, they’ll reward you with handfuls of these tiny treasures.
So this year, we’re giving it a go. We will report back throughout the season as our plant starts grow and I hope you give it a try as well. They are supposed to be very easy to grow
The best part? You use them just like regular cucumbers — no peeling needed. They’re wonderful fresh, but also hold up beautifully in savory warm dishes or tossed into cool, crisp salads.
Fresh. Bright. Gone in seconds.
COOL STUFF I’M LOVING
You can find Cucamelon seeds at this link! Let me know in the comments if you try growing them.
A SIMPLE WAY TO ENJOY CUCAMELONS THIS SUMMER
Toss a handful of cucamelons with a drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of fresh lime, a pinch of flaky sea salt, and just a whisper of minced garlic and snipped garden mint!. Even a dollop of Greek Yogurt would be a nice addition
Let them sit for a few minutes or even a few hours… and that crisp, citrusy bite comes alive.
DOG IN THE KITCHEN
Be sure to check out the new selection of garden and house flags in the store.
Beautiful both outdoors or inside in a window where the sun passing through has a stained glass effect.
Printed on both sides!
Have you grown cucamelons or eaten them before? I would love to to hear your thoughts!