How to Cut a Dragonfruit (Two Ways!)

Cut a dragonfruit with ease and in two different ways! Then enjoy its sweetness in a fruit salad, in a popsicle, or on its own!

Dragonfruits are…

• Light
• Sweet
• Tropical
• Perfect in a fruit salad!

What is a Dragonfruit?

A dragonfruit, also called pitaya, is a type of fruit that grows on the end of a specific cactus plant. The skin is made of large scales, like a dragon’s, and grows either yellow or pinkish-red. The inside of the fruit is soft and dotted with small black seeds. It also ranges in color, like the skin, and ranges from white to pink to red. The taste is usually sweet and delicate, (though some varieties are sour!), while the texture is similar to a pear. 

The dragonfruit is indigenous to Central and South America, but is now grown all over the world. They are so common that new plants are sold at local garden stores! When it grows, it looks like a plant from the age of dinosaurs: large, vine-like cactus arms crawling on the ground or reaching up fences with big fruit bulbs hanging from the ends. Really cool! 

Dragonfruit is an excellent addition to a fruit salads and smoothies, though is also a lovely snack on its own. The scales make it seem difficult to cut, but it is actually very simple! All you need is a sharp knife and a spoon. The actual cuts are then based on the recipe you’re using or personal preference, such as half-moon slices or cubes. Let’s get started!

Diet Compatibility and Allergens

Dragonfruit is permissible on many diets and contains no known allergens. However, if on a low-carb diet, keep in mind that fruit can be high in carbs and should be eaten in moderation to keep carb levels low.

Diet	Recipe compatible as written?	Recommended substitutions
Keto	Yes (in moderation).	N/A
Paleo	Yes.	N/A
Whole30	Yes.	N/A
Gluten-free	Yes.	N/A
Vegetarian	Yes.	N/A
Vegan	Yes.	N/A
Low Sodium	Yes.	N/A
Dairy-free	Yes.	N/A
Mediterranean	Yes.	N/A
Low FODMAP	Yes.	N/A
Atkins	Yes (in moderation).	N/A

Allergen	Present in recipe?	Recommended substitutions
Milk	No.	N/A
Eggs	No.	N/A
Fish	No.	N/A
Shellfish	No.	N/A
Tree nuts	No.	N/A
Peanuts	No.	N/A
Wheat (Gluten)	No.	N/A
Soy	No.	N/A
Sesame	No.	N/A

How to Cut a Dragonfruit

Half-Moon Slices

Step One: Using a sharp knife, cut dragonfruit lengthwise in half. 

Step Two: Scoop the inside flesh out with a spoon. Compost the skin (or use as a bowl for the fruit pieces!).

Step Three: Cut the fruit Into half-moon slices. If desired add a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Enjoy!

Cubes

Step One: Using a sharp knife, cut each end of the dragonfruit.

Step Two: Make a shallow slice on the fruit lengthwise, just enough to cut through the skin. 

Step Three: Peel the skin away from the flesh.

Step Four: Cut the fruit into slices, then cubes. Sprinkle into a fruit salad or coconut water popsicle, & enjoy!

Watch the video version…

FAQ

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