Known since ancient times, cantaloupes were named for the papal garden of Cantaloupe, Italy. The orange-fleshed cantaloupe, which South Africans usually call spanspek, is among the most nutritious of the melon family. Cantaloupes are rich in Vitamins A and C, as well as in folic acid and potassium. Look for ones that are well netted or webbed, with a yellow, background and pleasing aroma. If any stem is showing, the melon was picked prematurely and won?t taste as sweet as one allowed to ripen on the vine.
Use: Cantaloupes are good in fruit salads, or as a breakfast or dessert dish. If you can’t find real cantaloupes, use spanspek or other melons – the result will be equally delicious.