Crenshaw melons (Cucumis melo var. inodorous), are a sweet-fleshed melon variety from the Cucurbitaceae family. Believed to have originated in Turkey, they are a hybrid between casaba and Persian melons. Crenshaw melons are known for their medium to large size, typically weighing between 8 to 10 pounds, and their distinctive oblong shape with a thick, waxy rind that ranges from yellow to golden yellow.
The flesh is soft, dense, and sweet, with a light orange color and mild flavor characterized by floral and subtle spice undertones. Crenshaw melons are mainly harvested in the mid-summer through fall and are favored for their juicy texture and versatility in both fresh and lightly cooked dishes.
Nutritionally, they are an excellent source of vitamin C and provide fiber, potassium, and vitamin A. Crenshaw melons are commonly grown in warm and temperate regions and have been commercially cultivated since the early 20th century in the United States. They are also valued for their extended shelf life, thanks to their hard rind, which allows for longer storage.