EMBELLIR | EXOTIC: The Strange Looking Dragon Fruit

Dragon Fruit

In our continuing effort to help you get more familiar with fruits other than apples and oranges, we now introduce or present the dragon fruit, aka pitaya.

The fruit is native to Asia and tropical regions, such as Florida and the Carribean.

This is the season that you can find dragon fruit in stores in the South.

This unusual looking fruit is packed full of nutrition. And do not let its thick, leathery skin and wild extensions frighten you.

A ripe dragon fruit is bright red and firm to the touch.  Too many splotches can indicate that the fruit is too ripe.  It should be soft, but not mushy.

To eat a dragon fruit, just cut into it lengthwise, cut cubes as you would with an avocado, and then peel back the skin to let the cubes fall into your dish.

It is a good source of magnesium and boosts the immune system.  It contains Vitamin C and other properties that makes it a powerful antioxidant.  As we know, antioxidants are vital in protecting our cells.  Dragon fruit is also a good source of fiber.

The fruit can be eaten outright, add to fruit dishes, made into sorbets or ice creams.  We have provided a recipe link below for your convenience.

This fruit is a winner.  It can add variety to your healthy diet.  Enjoy!

Dragon Fruit Popsicles!