Golden yellow, juicy and fragrant, starfruit is one of those backyard fruits we grew up with in Hawaii that’s now being cultivated. Lucky us, because this delicious fruit is more readily available to all.

Also known as carambola, starfruit is native to Southeast Asia and probably came to Hawaii with Chinese immigrants. It has a distinctive five-wedge shape that looks like a star when cut crosswise. The tart-sweet flavor and crisp texture make it a delicious treat.

Add slices to green salads; include it in fruit salads. Garnish desserts with starfruit slices. How about a slice in a glass of proseco or other bubbly wine? This is a fruit that’s best eaten fresh out of hand.

Hawaii food writer Joan Namkoong’s weekly tidbit on fresh seasonal products, many of them locally grown. appears every Wednesday in the Star-Advertiser.