Many people do not realize they can freeze – and dehydrate – cantaloupe. But you can, and I am going to tell you how!
With all the nutrients these amazing pieces of fruit bring, it is worth storing some so you can enjoy it off season. From toppings for yogurt or salads to snacking on chips, the options for use are almost limitless.
So, let’s get started and learn how to freeze and dehydrate your cantaloupe.
How to Freeze Cantaloupe
- Cut cantaloupe in half
- Clean out the pulp
- Cut in quarters or eighths – whichever works best for you
- Edge knife around the quarter to remove the husk
- Cut pieces into 2″ squares
- Line on a cookie sheet and flash freeze by placing in freezer until pieces are frozen
- Once frozen, remove from freezer and place frozen segments in an airtight container and place back in freezer.
Cantaloupe should store in the freezer for up to six months.
I use frozen cantaloupe most often in smoothies. I do also sometimes let it that a bit and throw it in yogurt or ice cream too. Below is one of my favorite cantaloupe smoothie recipes.
Cantaloupe Watermelon Smoothie
This recipe makes approximately four 8 ounce cups of smoothie. It can also be used to make some healthy frozen smoothie pops too!
- 3 cups cubed frozen watermelon
- 1 cup cubed frozen cantaloupe
- 1 small handful spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup strawberries
- 1/2 cup plain or vanilla yogurt
- 1 teaspoon flax
- 1 teaspoon chia seed
- a few cubes of ice
- coconut water
How to Dehydrate Cantaloupe
- Follow the procedure above to cut and clean your cantaloupe
- Cut wedges into 1/4″ slices (not chunks)
- Layout on dehydrator trays in single layer
- Ensure pieces are not touching
- Dehydrate on 125-130 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 18-20 hours. This time will be dependent on your machine, humidity levels, etc.
- Cantaloupe is done when itis chewy but firm.
- Remove from dehydrator and store in airtight container. For shorter storage, a zip top bag is fine.
I am not sure how long these will stay good for since they never last long in my house. I only do one cantaloupe at a time and they are gone in a couple of days. They make great snacks, salad accents, and as an ice cream topping for some texture.
You can also cut them into smaller bits to add to granola, trail mix, yogurt or oatmeal.