Fruits are not only delicious but are also packed with essential nutrients and vitamins that promote overall health.
With so many different types of fruits available, it can be challenging to keep track of all the different options.
In this article, we will explore some of the fruits that start with the letter C, which are not only yummy but also have numerous health benefits.
Fruits That Start With C – Yummy List
- Cantaloupe
Cantaloupe is a sweet and juicy fruit that belongs to the muskmelon family.
It is native to Africa and Asia but is now widely cultivated in other parts of the world, including the United States, where it is a popular summer fruit.
Cantaloupes have a rough, netted skin that ranges in color from green to beige, and their flesh is usually orange or salmon colored.
The fruit has a sweet, musky aroma and a juicy, succulent texture that makes it a popular addition to fruit salads, smoothies, and other desserts.
In addition to its delicious taste, cantaloupe is also a nutritious fruit. It is low in calories and high in vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and dietary fiber.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to boost the immune system, while vitamin A is important for healthy vision and skin.
Potassium is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure and fluid balance, and dietary fiber helps to promote healthy digestion.
When selecting a cantaloupe, look for one that is firm and heavy for its size, with a sweet, musky aroma.
Ripe cantaloupes will also have a slightly soft feel on the stem end. Once you have a ripe cantaloupe, it can be stored in the refrigerator for several days.
- Cherry
Cherries are a small, sweet, and juicy fruit that come in a variety of colors, including red, yellow, and purple.
They are a type of stone fruit, which means they have a single, hard pit in the center of the fruit.
Cherries are often enjoyed fresh, but they can also be used in a variety of recipes, including pies, cakes, and jams.
There are two main types of cherries: sweet cherries and sour cherries.
Sweet cherries are usually eaten fresh and have a sweet, mild flavor, while sour cherries are usually used in cooking and have a tart, tangy flavor.
Both types of cherries are packed with nutrition and offer several health benefits.
Cherries are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to protect cells from damage and boost the immune system, while potassium is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure and fluid balance in the body.
Dietary fiber helps to promote healthy digestion and can help to lower cholesterol levels.
In addition to their nutrient content, cherries contain several plant compounds that have been linked to health benefits.
For example, anthocyanins, which give cherries their red and purple colors, have anti-inflammatory properties, and may help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
When selecting cherries, look for ones that are plump, shiny, and free from bruises or blemishes.
They can be stored in the refrigerator for several days and should be washed just before eating.
- Cactus Pear
Cactus pear, also known as prickly pear, is a fruit that comes from the prickly pear cactus.
It is native to Mexico and is now grown in many other parts of the world, including the southwestern United States, where it is a popular ingredient in many traditional dishes.
Cactus pear has a thick, spiny skin that is typically green or yellow, and its flesh is usually deep red or purple.
The fruit has a sweet, juicy flavor that is often compared to watermelon or strawberry, and it can be eaten fresh or used in a variety of recipes, including jams, jellies, and sorbets.
In addition to its delicious taste, cactus pear is also a nutritious fruit.
It is low in calories and high in vitamin C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to boost the immune system and protect cells from damage, while dietary fiber helps to promote healthy digestion and can help to lower cholesterol levels.
Antioxidants are important for overall health, as they help to protect the body from free radicals, which can cause cell damage and lead to chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
When selecting cactus pear, look for ones that are firm and free from bruises or blemishes.
The spines on the skin should be removed before eating, either by peeling the skin or by using tongs to remove the spines individually.
The flesh can then be sliced or scooped out and enjoyed fresh or used in recipes.
- Clementines
Clementines are a small, sweet, and juicy citrus fruit that are a type of mandarin orange.
They are usually seedless and easy to peel, which makes them a popular snack or addition to lunchboxes.
Clementines are also a common ingredient in many recipes, including salads, desserts, and cocktails.
Clementines are a good source of vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that helps to boost the immune system and protect cells from damage.
They are also a good source of dietary fiber, which helps to promote healthy digestion and can help to lower cholesterol levels.
In addition, clementines contain several other vitamins and minerals, including potassium, vitamin A, and calcium.
When selecting clementines, look for ones that are firm, heavy for their size, and free from blemishes or soft spots.
They can be stored at room temperature for a few days, or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Coconut
Coconut is a tropical fruit that is well-known for its hard, brown, fibrous shell and its sweet, creamy flesh.
It is a versatile fruit that can be eaten fresh or used in a variety of recipes, including curries, smoothies, and baked goods.
Coconuts are a rich source of nutrition and offer several health benefits.
The flesh of the coconut is high in dietary fiber, which helps to promote healthy digestion and can help to lower cholesterol levels.
Coconuts are also a good source of several important minerals, including potassium, magnesium, and iron.
These minerals are essential for maintaining healthy heart and muscle function, bone health, and overall energy levels.
Coconuts are also a rich source of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are a type of healthy fat that is easily metabolized by the body and can help to promote weight loss and improve brain function.
MCTs have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which may help to boost the immune system and promote overall health.
In addition to its flesh, coconut water is another popular product that is derived from the coconut fruit.
Coconut water is the clear liquid that is found inside young green coconuts, and it is a natural source of hydration that is rich in electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and magnesium.
It is a popular alternative to sports drinks and other sugary beverages and is often consumed as a refreshing drink in tropical regions around the world.
- Cranberries
Cranberries are a tart and tangy fruit that are native to North America.
They are typically consumed dried or as juice, and are also used in a variety of recipes, including sauces, salads, and baked goods.
Cranberries are a rich source of antioxidants, which are important for overall health as they help to protect the body from free radicals, which can cause cell damage and lead to chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
Cranberries are also high in vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that helps to boost the immune system and protect cells from damage.
In addition to their antioxidant properties, cranberries are also a good source of dietary fiber, which helps to promote healthy digestion and can help to lower cholesterol levels.
They are also a good source of several important minerals, including potassium, manganese, and vitamin K.
One of the unique properties of cranberries is that they contain compounds called proanthocyanidins (PACs), which are thought to help prevent the adhesion of certain bacteria, including those that cause urinary tract infections (UTIs), to the lining of the urinary tract.
As a result, cranberry juice and supplements are often recommended for the prevention and treatment of UTIs.
When selecting cranberries, look for ones that are firm and free from blemishes or soft spots.
Fresh cranberries can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two months, while dried cranberries can be stored at room temperature for several months.
- Currants
Currants are small, tart berries that come in several different colors, including red, black, and white.
They are often used in jams, jellies, and baked goods, and are also a popular addition to salads and other savory dishes.
Currants are a good source of several important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and iron.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to boost the immune system and protect cells from damage, while potassium is important for maintaining healthy heart and muscle function.
Iron is important for healthy blood cell production and overall energy levels.
In addition to their nutrient content, currants are also a good source of dietary fiber, which helps to promote healthy digestion and can help to lower cholesterol levels.
They are also a good source of several plant compounds, including anthocyanins, which are thought to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
One of the unique properties of currants is their relatively low sugar content, which makes them a popular choice for those looking to reduce their sugar intake.
They are also a good option for those following a low-carb or keto diet, as they are relatively low in carbohydrates compared to many other fruits.
When selecting currants, look for ones that are firm and plump, with a shiny skin and a deep, rich color.
They can be stored in the refrigerator for several days, or in the freezer for several months.
- Custard Apple
Custard apple, also known as sugar apple or sweetsop, is a tropical fruit that is native to Central and South America but is also grown in other tropical regions around the world.
It has a distinctive sweet, creamy flavor that is often described as a cross between pineapple, banana, and vanilla.
The fruit itself is oval or heart-shaped, and typically ranges in size from about 3 to 6 inches in diameter.
It has a rough, green outer skin that is covered in small bumps, and a soft, white flesh that is divided into segments by thin, fibrous membranes.
The flesh contains many small black seeds that are not typically consumed.
Custard apple is a good source of several important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to boost the immune system and protect cells from damage, while potassium and magnesium are important for maintaining healthy heart function and regulating blood pressure.
In addition to their nutrient content, custard apples also contain several important plant compounds, including acetogenins, which are thought to have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties.
However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of these compounds.
When selecting custard apples, look for ones that are firm, with a slightly soft flesh.
Ripe custard apples should have a fragrant, sweet aroma, and a slightly wrinkled skin.
They can be stored at room temperature until they are ripe, after which they should be refrigerated.
- Citron
Citron is a large, fragrant citrus fruit that is native to Southeast Asia and is believed to be one of the oldest citrus fruits in the world.
It is typically round or oblong in shape and has a thick, bumpy rind that is often used for candying or making marmalades.
The flesh of the citron is relatively dry and has a sour, slightly bitter taste.
It is not typically consumed raw but is often used in cooking and baking as a flavoring or garnish.
The rind is also commonly used to flavor liqueurs, such as the Italian liqueur limoncello.
Citron is a good source of several important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to boost the immune system and protect cells from damage, while potassium is important for maintaining healthy heart and muscle function.
Dietary fiber is important for promoting healthy digestion and can also help to lower cholesterol levels.
In addition to its nutrient content, citron is also a good source of several important plant compounds, including limonene and citral, which are thought to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
These compounds may also help to improve digestive health and protect against certain types of cancer.
When selecting citron, look for ones that are firm and heavy for their size, with a bright, smooth skin.
They can be stored at room temperature for several days, or in the refrigerator for up to a few weeks.
- Cocona
Cocona is a small, tangy fruit that is native to the Andean region of South America.
It is also known by several other names, including “goldenberry,” “cape gooseberry,” and “Peruvian groundcherry”.
The fruit is often used in traditional dishes in South America and is becoming increasingly popular in other parts of the world as well.
The cocona fruit is small, round, and typically ranges in size from about 1 to 2 centimeters in diameter.
It has a bright yellow or orange skin that is covered in small bumps, and a juicy, tart flesh that is similar in flavor to a cross between a tomato and a lemon.
The fruit is typically eaten raw, either on its own or as a garnish for other dishes, and is also commonly used in sauces, salsas, and jams.
Cocona is a good source of several important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to boost the immune system and protect cells from damage, while vitamin A is important for maintaining healthy vision and skin.
Potassium is important for regulating blood pressure and maintaining healthy heart function.
In addition to its nutrient content, cocona is also a good source of several important plant compounds, including carotenoids and polyphenols, which are thought to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
These compounds may also help to improve digestive health and protect against certain types of cancer.
- Chinese Bayberry
Chinese bayberry, also known as yumberry or waxberry, is a small, round fruit that is native to China, Japan, and other parts of Southeast Asia.
It is a popular fruit in these regions and is gaining popularity in other parts of the world as well.
The fruit has a unique and complex flavor, with a balance of sweetness and tartness, and a slightly perfumed taste.
The fruit is typically small, about 1 to 2 centimeters in diameter, and has a thin, delicate skin that ranges in color from pale pink to deep red.
The flesh is juicy and translucent, with a soft, pulpy texture that surrounds a single seed in the center.
The fruit is typically eaten raw, either on its own or as a component of desserts and other dishes.
Chinese bayberry is a good source of several important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to boost the immune system and protect cells from damage, while potassium is important for maintaining healthy heart and muscle function.
Dietary fiber is important for promoting healthy digestion and can also help to lower cholesterol levels.
- Chokeberry
Chokeberry, also known as Aronia, is a small, tart fruit that is native to eastern North America.
It is a member of the rose family and is related to other berries like blueberries and cranberries.
The fruit is often used in jams, jellies, and baked goods, and is becoming increasingly popular in the health food community for its potential health benefits.
There are two main types of chokeberries: red chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia) and black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa).
Black chokeberry is the most commonly consumed variety, and is typically larger and darker in color than the red variety.
Both types of chokeberries have a tart, slightly bitter flavor, and a high antioxidant content.
When selecting chokeberries, look for ones that are plump and firm, with a deep, rich color.
They can be eaten raw, but are often used in jams, jellies, and baked goods.
Chokeberry juice and extract are also available and can be consumed as a dietary supplement.
- Carissa
Carissa is a genus of small trees and shrubs that are native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia.
The fruit of the carissa plant is also known as Natal plum, and is a small, red to purple fruit that is similar in appearance to a small plum or cherry.
The fruit has a sweet and tangy flavor and is often used in jams, jellies, and as a flavoring for alcoholic beverages.
The carissa plant is an evergreen shrub or small tree that can grow up to 10 feet tall.
It has glossy, dark green leaves and produces small, fragrant white flowers in the spring and summer.
The fruit is typically harvested in the fall and winter months, and can be eaten fresh or used in a variety of culinary applications.
- Carambola
Carambola, also known as starfruit, is a tropical fruit that is native to Southeast Asia but is now grown in many tropical and subtropical regions around the world.
It gets its name from its star-shaped cross-section when sliced and has a distinct sweet and tart flavor.
Carambola is a good source of several important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.
When selecting carambola, look for fruit that is firm and free of blemishes.
The fruit should be ripe, but not overripe, as overripe carambola can become mushy and lose its flavor.
Carambola can be eaten fresh, or used in a variety of culinary applications, including salads, desserts, and as a garnish for drinks.
The fruit can also be juiced, canned, or dried for use in a variety of recipes.
It’s important to note that some people may experience adverse effects from consuming carambola, particularly if they have kidney disease.
Carambola contains high levels of oxalic acid, which can be toxic to individuals with impaired kidney function.
If you have kidney disease or are at risk for kidney disease, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider before consuming carambola or any other food that is high in oxalic acid.
- Cape Gooseberry
Cape gooseberry, also known as Physalis peruviana, is a small, round fruit that is native to South America but is now grown in many other parts of the world, including South Africa and Australia.
The fruit is encased in a papery husk, which is similar in appearance to a Chinese lantern.
Cape gooseberry has a sweet and slightly tart flavor, and is often used in desserts, jams, and sauces.
The fruit is also a good source of several important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to boost the immune system and protect cells from damage, while vitamin A is important for healthy skin and eyes.
Iron is important for healthy red blood cells and oxygen transport.
It’s important to note that the leaves and unripe fruit of cape gooseberry contain solanine, which can be toxic in large amounts.
For this reason, it’s important to only consume ripe fruit and to avoid consuming the leaves and unripe fruit.
In addition to its nutritional value, cape gooseberry is also known for its potential health benefits.
The fruit contains several important plant compounds, including polyphenols and carotenoids, which have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
These compounds may help to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer and cardiovascular disease.
List of Other Fruits That Start with C
In addition to the fruits mentioned above, there are several other fruits that start with the letter C. Here are a few examples:
Calabash
Camu Camu
Canistel
Cape Gooseberry
Carob
Cashew Apple
Cherry Guava
Chinese Date
Citrange
Coconut
Cornelian Cherry
Crataegus
Conclusion
Fruits are not only delicious but also provide numerous health benefits.
By incorporating a variety of fruits into your diet, you can improve your overall health and well-being.
Fruits that start with the letter C are no exception, with options ranging from the sweet and juicy cantaloupe to the tart and tangy crabapple.
With so many different options to choose from, it’s easy to find a fruit that you love and that can provide you with the essential vitamins and nutrients that your body needs.
So, next time you’re at the grocery store, don’t forget to add some of these yummy fruits that start with the letter C to your cart!
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