Melons, with their thick rim of flesh and seedy middle, are part of the gourd family that includes cucumber and squash. Local melons are available at farmers’ markets starting in July. They include cantaloupes (also called muskmelons), red and yellow watermelon and Persian (like a small cantaloupe). Honeydew and casaba (yellow with pale flesh) are available at most grocery stores. Check out melons’ surprising health bene­fits.