I have been growing melons on a trellis for a couple years now. The plants really tend to spread out, and it helps if I can keep their prolific growth somewhat under control.

When my melons are ripe, I get ready to jump into action. Since melons don’t have a long shelf life, I like to take advantage of the freshest of them in a basic, yet fun and creative way.

I make Melon Salad. Hey, when life gives you melons…

Sure, I could just cut the melons open, scoop out the seeds, slice into wedges, and top them with whipped cream, ice cream, or cottage cheese. But that’s so… predictable.

If the harvest timing is right, I get to have a little fun. I pick three or four of my ripe melons and sort them out. One, I cut into cubes; your basic fruit salad shape. Another gets the melon ball treatment—big and small. For a denser melon, I go for short strips. And then I get out the cookie cutters for the “garnish” phase. I have crescent moons, stars, even a comet shape. After I’ve assembled my colorful, flavorful, Melon Salad, I ring each plate with a constellation of my garden’s goodness.

You’d think that only kids would go for those cute little fruit cutouts, but friends and family love to help me celebrate the bounty of my garden and my creative approach to sharing it. After all, you’re really never too old to play with your food!

Have it Your Way Melon Salad

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There is pretty much no way to go wrong with this Melon Salad. Make it with a combination of melons and seasonings that appeal to you, and call it your own.

• Author: Norann Oleson
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Salads & Dressings

Ingredients

• 3 to 4 pounds melon of your choice—mix it up!
• 1 tablespoon lime zest
• Juice from 2 fresh limes
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger

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Instructions

1. Cut melon flesh into the shapes of your choice: cubes, balls, or strips. Use small cookie cutters to make interesting shapes.
2. Put melon pieces into a large serving bowl.
3. Drizzle ginger-lime dressing over the fruit.
4. Serve with a smile.

If you’re interested in growing your own cantaloupe, muskmelons, or honeydew melons, be sure to check out the Marvelous Melon Guide. You’ll have everything you need to know about growing and enjoying these wonderful summer treasures. Check it out.

Have you tried this Melon Salad recipe? It’s a great side dish with plenty of flavor—please tell us how it turned out for you.