Sunday, August 12, 2012

The Dragon Fruit

photo from picasaweb.google.com
A recent trip to the local Farmers Market landed an unusual fruit in my produce bag....The Pitaya, more commonly referred to as the Dragon Fruit. The taste and texture is similar to a kiwi, but nothing compares to the beautiful and intense presentation that this fruit delivers!

photo from hort.purdue.edu/newcrop









The Dragon Fruit looks like something the Chiquita Girl would wear on her head. Its hot pink and lime green flames catch your attention and when you slice it open, there's a jaw dropping surprise. Dragon fruit is a type of cactus and can be found in pink and yellow with white flesh, sprinkled with black seeds and if you are lucky, you get one filled with the most brilliant fluorescent fuchsia you've ever seen! It's low in calories and offers nutrients such as Vitamin C, calcium, fiber and antioxidants.

photo from 2.bp.blogspot.com
This exotic fruit is best eaten chilled. Cut the fruit in half and scoop the flesh out. There are many creative ways to use the fruit including using it as a "novelty" dessert, garnish a drink, serve in salads, make into a drink, jam or sorbet. It's a refreshing treat that's sure to impress your dinner guests and wow the kiddos.
photo from whatsforsupper-juno.blogspot.com
photo from seduceyourtastebuds.blogspot.ca
Our family started our own tradition. Each time we have new guests over for dinner, my husband makes a Dragon Fruit after-dinner presentation which includes a magical, make-believe history of the fruit....because, well, "the fruit doesn't fall far from the tree!"

Dragon Fruit, go and get yourself this unique little treat.

No comments:

Post a Comment