Tropical Fruit With Lime

Directions

1. 1
   In small saucepan, cook sugar with water over medium heat, stirring, until sugar is dissolved.
2. 2
   Remove from heat; stir in lime rind and juice.
3. 3
   Let cool.
4. 4
   (Syrup can be refrigerated in airtight container for up to 1 day; rewarm until fluid, then let cool to room temperature.
5. 5
   ).
6. 6
   Peel, seed and cube cantaloupe; place in bowl.
7. 7
   Cut off 2 opposite sides of mango as close to pit as possible.
8. 8
   Cut grid pattern of 1/2-inch cubes in flesh of each side down to (but not through) skin; turn inside out.
9. 9
   Cut off cubes; add to bowl.
10. 10
    Cut remaining mango away from pit; cube and add to bowl.
11. 11
    (Fruit can be prepared to this point, covered and refrigerated for up to 4 hours).
12. 12
    Peel and cut bananas into 1/2-inch thick slices; add to bowl.
13. 13
    Add reserved syrup, and mint (if using); toss gently to combine.
14. 14
    Serve immediately.