Galia melon is a unique hybrid melon created from cantaloupe and honeydew melon. Developed in Israel, the Galia melon’s scientific name is cucumis melo var. reticulatus.
The outer husk of the Galia melon strongly resembles the outside of a cantaloupe in both texture and color. The delicious inner fruit flesh ranges in color from green to a light yellow hue. In this way, the Galia melon resembles its parent melon, the honeydew melon. When ripe, the Galia melon should be sweet-smelling and firm to the touch.
Rich with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, the Galia melon is a healthy choice of fruit. Its sweet flavor, pleasing texture, and low calorie count make it a delicious and healthy option for snacking, sides, and even dessert!
Health Benefits
The Galia melon is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can provide essential health benefits. For example, Vitamin A and Vitamin C stimulate immunity in the body.
The soluble dietary fiber in Galia melon aids in healthy digestion. Beyond this, the melon contains no fat, no cholesterol, and is low in calories. It melon can aid in weight loss and management as a part of a balanced diet.
In addition, Galia melon can provide other health benefits like:
Heart Health
The melon contains a high level of dietary fiber, which can help lower LDL or bad cholesterol. A surplus of cholesterol can lead to atherosclerosis. It’s also rich with potassium, which can aid in lowering blood pressure and lower the risk of stroke and heart disease.
Digestive Health
Fiber, especially soluble fiber, also helps reduce constipation and a variety of other gastrointestinal issues and discomfort.
Immunity
Galia melon contains high amounts of vitamins and minerals. Vitamin A and Vitamin C stimulate the body’s immune response. Carotenoids and bioflavonoids act as antioxidants to eliminate free radicals within the body.
Eye Health
When consumed as a part of a healthy and balanced meal, the high levels of Vitamin A in Galia melon can help prevent eye disease and sight issues.
Nutrition
Galia melon is rich in Vitamin A and Vitamin C , which help stimulate immune responses within the body. Galia melon is rich with other antioxidants, which can help reduce the risk of serious health conditions like cancer, diabetes, stroke, and heart disease.
Galia melon is also an excellent source of:
- Potassium
- Dietary fiber
- Bioflavinoids
- Carotenoids
- Calcium
- Iron
Nutrients per Serving
A 1/2 cup serving of Galia melon contains:
- Calories: 31
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 8 grams
- Fiber: 1 grams
- Sugar: 7 gram
Portion Sizes
Galia melon is a healthy snack, but, like all fruits, it still contains naturally occurring sugar. Because of this, you should moderate your intake of this delicious treat. Limiting your intake of the melon to a half cup or less is essential for a balanced meal.
How to Prepare Galia Melon
When selecting a fresh Galia melon, look for one that’s firm. To determine the ripeness of a Galia melon, you can press the end of the melon opposite of the stem. When ripe, the Galia melon will be obviously rigid to the touch. The Galia melon should give off a distinct, sweet fragrance similar to the honeydew and cantaloupe.
If your Galia melon needs a few days to ripen, it can be stored at room temperature. Otherwise, store Galia melons in a plastic container in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days.
Galia melon should be served fresh and chilled. It can be diced, sliced, or served with a melon baller. Galia melon is a healthful choice for a snack, side to a lunch or breakfast, or a classy garnish at brunch.
