Cantaloupe is a round to oblong melon with sweet, orange flesh and a rough, netted rind. It is typically cut into wedges, cubes, or scooped balls and served fresh. Common uses include breakfast, fruit salads, smoothies, salsas, and chilled appetizers. Store uncut at room temperature to ripen, then refrigerate once sliced to maintain freshness. Consume within a few days for best flavor.