Prickly pear recipes – exotic, healthy and surprisingly versatile

Prickly pears are still an insider tip in Germany, but they can be used in many ways in the kitchen. Their fruity, slightly melon-like flavor and intense color make them a special ingredient for healthy dishes and creative desserts. Here are three simple recipes using prickly pears – for breakfast, as a snack, and as a special dessert.

Recipe 1: Prickly pear smoothie with citrus and mint

Ingredients (for 2 glasses):

• 2 ripe prickly pears (peeled)

• 1 orange (peeled)

• 1/2 lemon (juice)

• 1 small banana

• 4–5 fresh mint leaves

• 100 ml cold water or coconut water

Preparation:

1. Carefully peel the prickly pears and cut them into pieces.

2. Puree all ingredients in a blender until smooth.

3. Strain through a fine sieve if the seeds bother you.

4. Serve cold.

   
   

Recipe 2: Prickly pear salad with feta and arugula

Ingredients (for 2 people):

• 2 prickly pears (peeled and cut into wedges)

• 2 handfuls of arugula

• 80 g feta or vegan cheese

• 1 small avocado (diced)

• 1 tbsp pumpkin seeds

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl.

2. Season with lemon juice, oil, salt and pepper.

3. Serve immediately – also goes well with grilled vegetables or flatbread.

   
   

Recipe 3: Prickly pear chia pudding with coconut milk

Ingredients (for 2 servings):

• 2 prickly pears (peeled and pureed)

• 200 ml coconut milk

• 3 tbsp chia seeds

• 1 tsp maple syrup or agave syrup (optional)

• Coconut flakes or granola as a topping

Preparation:

1. Mix chia seeds with coconut milk and sweetener.

2. Let it swell in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.

3. Before serving, fold in the prickly pear puree and sprinkle with toppings.

Processing tips

• Wear gloves when peeling or use a fork to hold the fruit – the fine spines can stick to the skin.

• The fruits should be ripe, but not overripe – otherwise they are difficult to process.

• The prickly pear can also be used excellently as jam, syrup or ice cream.

  
  

Conclusion: Prickly pears bring a breath of fresh air into your kitchen

Whether as a smoothie, salad, or dessert, prickly pears add a special touch to dishes while providing many valuable nutrients. Anyone looking for new, healthy recipe ideas should definitely try this fruit.