How do I know if melons are firm

[FLY]

I ask this because one recipe requires firm melons....

When I visit my local market and ask the girl on the veg store if her melons are firm, she gives me a funny look.

Any help would be appreciated.

[kalniel]

All melons start off firm, and then gradually soften with age. So to ensure they are firm simply ask for young melons.

Hope that helps,

[FLY]

All melons start off firm, and then gradually soften with age. So to ensure they are firm simply ask for young melons.

Hope that helps,

Thank you for your most kind and informative reply.

After a couple of weeks of squeezing melons I have come to the conclusion that the girl on my local market has the firmest to offer in my area.

May I also add that I have discovered that the largest ones don't necessarily mean quality...I find that melons that fit snugly into the palms of the hands are perfect for my requirements.

Many thanks once again