Paletas de Melon, Cantaloupe Ice Pops

 Have you heard of a Paleta? They are authentic Mexican ice pops, shaved ice, and aguas frescas (you know them as popsicles) that are amazingly good! I first fell in love with them while watching a paleta throw down with Bobby Flay on tv, they looked so refreshing and came in so many wonderful flavors I just knew I had to have one. Since Texas was a bit far to drive for a popsicle I opted for the next best thing.... a paletas cookbook so that we could enjoy our very own homemade treats!

makes 8 to 10

1/2 cup water
1/2 cup sugar
4 cups chopped fresh cantaloupe (about 1 small cantaloupe)
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Pinch of salt

Combine the water and sugar in a small saucepan. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring, until the mixture comes to a boil and the sugar has dissolved. Let cool to room temperature. Pour the syrup into a food processor or blender. Add the melon, lemon juice, and salt and blend until smooth.  Pour into popsicle molds (I use the all in one units so that I don't have to purchase sticks). Freeze about 5 hours until solid.
Tip: If the Popsicle is not coming out of the mold easily run some warm water over it before trying to pull it out to loosen it up.

Photos by Laura Spear, Recipe by Fany Gerson from the cookbook Paletas!

Bon Appétit,