Pre-cut melons may be convenient, but they are pricey.

Here is how to safely cut your own.

Cool, sweet hydration.

Cantaloupes

Credit:Fajrul Islam/Getty Images

That is what we long for during the dog days of ahot summer.

The melon should continue ripening if it was harvested close to full maturity.

If it was picked too early, your cantaloupe may get softer without getting much sweeter.

You will need alarge, sharp knife(a serrated edge works well) and a clean cutting board.

This same technique can be used to cut a honeydew or another similar melon.

Simply skip step #4 and don’t remove the rind.

Then slice your wedges and store them in the fridge.

Use amelon ballerif you want bite-sized balls to fancy up salads, drinks, or skewers.