Name: Honeydew, Mango, and Raspberries with Lime and Ginger
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 4 teaspoons sugar; 2 teaspoons grated lime zest; 1 - 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (see note); Pinch cayenne pepper (optional); 1/2 honeydew melon (medium), rind and seeds removed, cut into 1/2-inch pieces (about 3 cups); 1 mango (about 10 ounces), peeled, pitted, and cut into 1/2-inch pieces (about 1 1/2 cups); 1 - 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger; 1/2 pint raspberries (about 1 cup), picked over

Why This Recipe Works

To create a fruit salad recipe with great fruit flavor, we had to rewrite a few rules. We found it hard to judge the proper amount of sugar when it was added directly to the salad, so we macerated each fruit in just the amount needed to release its natural juices; we balanced the sweetness with fresh lime juice. But first, we mashed the sugar with herbs and zests (in bartending circles, this process is called muddling) to ensure even flavor distribution in our ideal fruit salad recipe.

Before You Begin

Because riper fruits require more acid to balance their sweetness, the lime juice should be added to taste. Start with 1 tablespoon, then add 1 teaspoon at a time as necessary.

Instructions

Combine sugar, zest, and cayenne (if using) in large bowl. Using rubber spatula, press mixture into side of bowl until sugar becomes damp, about 30 seconds. Gently toss melon, mango, and ginger with sugar mixture until combined. Let stand at room temperature, stirring occasionally, until fruit releases its juices, 15 to 30 minutes. Gently stir in raspberries. Stir in lime juice to taste and serve.