Prickly Pear: Vibrant Cactus Fruit

Juicy, lightly sweet cactus fruit rich in vitamin C and betalain antioxidants—great for aguas frescas, jams and salads.

0.0(0)

What Is Prickly Pear?

Prickly pear is the **fruit of the Opuntia cactus**, with colors ranging from green to magenta. The flavor is **mildly sweet** (melon–berry) with crunchy edible seeds.

Nutrition (per 100 g raw)

**~41 kcal**, **~10 g carbs**, **~3–4 g fiber**, **vitamin C**, **magnesium**, **potassium**, and **betalain** antioxidants.

Health Benefits

- **Vitamin C** supports immunity and skin health. - **Fiber** aids digestion and fullness. - **Betalains** provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. - Naturally **low in calories** and **hydrating**.

Possible Downsides

- **Glochids** (tiny spines) can irritate skin—handle with gloves. - **Seeds** are hard; chew carefully or strain for juice. - Very high portions may cause **GI discomfort**; sugar present—people managing blood sugar should portion wisely.

How to Use

- Torch or rub off **glochids**, trim ends, **peel** and dice. - Blend into **agua fresca**, smoothies, or **sorbets**; strain for a silky juice. - Make **jams/syrups**, or toss cubes into **salads** with lime and mint. - Pairs with **citrus, chili, mint, feta, cucumber**.

Tip

To remove glochids, use **gloves**, rinse, and scrub or briefly **pass over a flame**. For clear juice, **blend + fine-strain** through a sieve or cheesecloth.

1. Prickly Pear
Prickly pear (opuncija, kaktusova smokva) – plod kaktusa *Opuntia*; slatko–osvježavajući, boje od zelene do jarko ružičaste/ljubičaste; bogat vitaminom C i betalain pigmentima. Rukovati pažljivo zbog sitnih bodlji (glochids).

Comments

Povezani postovi

Prickly Pear: Cactus Fruit with Vitamin C & Antioxidants

ImmunityHealthy FatsOrganic

Prickly Pear: Cactus Fruit Packed with Antioxidants and Vitamin C

VeganImmunityGluten-Free

Prickly Pear Syrup: Sweet Desert Nectar Packed with Antioxidants

VeganImmunityGluten-Free

Bison Meat: Lean, Nutrient-Dense Red Meat

VeganImmunityHealthy Fats

Bone Broth: Slow-Simmered Collagen-Rich Stock

VeganImmunityHealthy Fats

Coconut Flakes: Crunchy, Tropical Topping

VeganImmunityHealthy Fats

Currants (Black, Red & White): Tart, Juicy Vitamin C Powerhouses

VeganImmunityHealthy Fats

Herbal Tea: Caffeine-Free Infusion for Relaxation & Wellness

ImmunityHealthy FatsOrganic

Guajillo Peppers: Fruity, Mild-to-Medium Dried Chilies

VeganImmunityHealthy Fats

Parsnips: Sweet, Nutty Root Vegetable

ImmunityHealthy FatsOrganic

Prickly Pear: Vibrant Cactus Fruit

Juicy, lightly sweet cactus fruit rich in vitamin C and betalain antioxidants—great for aguas frescas, jams and salads.

0.0(0)

F T IN P W V

Vegan Immunity Gluten-Free

What Is Prickly Pear?

Prickly pear is the **fruit of the Opuntia cactus**, with colors ranging from green to magenta. The flavor is **mildly sweet** (melon–berry) with crunchy edible seeds.

Nutrition (per 100 g raw)

**~41 kcal**, **~10 g carbs**, **~3–4 g fiber**, **vitamin C**, **magnesium**, **potassium**, and **betalain** antioxidants.

Health Benefits

Possible Downsides

How to Use

Tip

To remove glochids, use **gloves**, rinse, and scrub or briefly **pass over a flame**. For clear juice, **blend + fine-strain** through a sieve or cheesecloth.

1. Prickly Pear
Prickly pear (opuncija, kaktusova smokva) – plod kaktusa *Opuntia*; slatko–osvježavajući, boje od zelene do jarko ružičaste/ljubičaste; bogat vitaminom C i betalain pigmentima. Rukovati pažljivo zbog sitnih bodlji (glochids).