In Malta, melon (bettieħ in Maltese) is more than just a summer fruit – it is a symbol of Maltese cuisine and agricultural heritage. Grown for centuries across the archipelago, melon is enjoyed fresh, in family meals, and even in modern recipes. With several unique Maltese melon varieties, choosing the right one can be part of the fun of exploring local markets.

Melon is an essential summer food in Malta, valued for its refreshing sweetness.

• Often eaten sliced as a dessert or snack.
• Served on fruit platters after meals.
• Used in seasonal recipes such as soups and chilled gazpachos.

Maltese cuisine strongly values fresh, seasonal produce, and melon holds a special place during the long, hot summers.

Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, Malta produces a wide range of melon types, both local and imported. Here are the most popular:

Green Melon (Bollo)

Green flesh with a crunchy texture.
Sweet and refreshing, widely available in summer markets.

Bettieħ Xitwa Isfar ta’ Malta (Yellow Winter Melon)

Yellow skin.
Known for its long storage life, often eaten even after summer.

Bettieħ Xitwa Ħaḍar ta’ Malta (Green Winter Melon)

Green skin, juicy and fragrant flesh.
A traditional variety enjoyed during the colder months.

Cantaloupe Melon

Orange flesh and distinct fragrance.
Internationally popular and widely grown in Malta.

Bettieħ Adjab ta’ Malta (White Malta Melon)

White or pale flesh.
Sweet and juicy, ideal for fresh summer desserts.

• April to October: peak melon season in Malta.
• Winter melons (yellow and green varieties) can be stored and eaten until December or later.
• Cultivation is often artisanal, with many farmers preserving traditional growing techniques.

Melons are not only a summer pleasure but also part of Malta’s agricultural identity, connecting food traditions with the land.

Recipe Idea: Melon and Basil Gazpacho

A refreshing summer dish for four servings.

Preparation

1. Remove the skin and seeds of the melon.
2. Cut into pieces and blend until smooth.
3. Add vinegar, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and Tabasco. Blend again.
4. Garnish with fresh basil. Serve chilled.

Whether you choose a Green Bollo melon, a Yellow Winter Melon, or the fragrant Cantaloupe, melons in Malta are a must-try seasonal delight. They embody the island’s tradition of fresh, simple, and authentic cuisine, and are best enjoyed with family and friends during the warm Maltese summer.

Known as Bettieħ Xitwa, the Yellow Winter Melon and Green Winter Melon can be stored for months and eaten in autumn and winter.

At local markets across the islands, especially in summer. Farmers’ stalls often sell traditional Maltese varieties.