The prickly pear, also known as Opuntia, is one of the most popular cactus fruits you will find in the markets this season. Summer is the ideal time to discover them and add them to your diet.

The prickly pear is a fruit with a fleshy texture and many seeds. Its color varies according to its ripeness, from green and yellow to orange and reddish. Although the ripest fruits are red, many prefer green or yellow, as they are crispier.

Harvesting and cleaning

Harvesting the prickly pear is a challenge because of the thorns that cover the fruit and leaves of the cactus. This is why, although they are widespread throughout Greece in the summer, you may find them a bit more expensive.

To clean the prickly pear, care is needed. Start by rinsing them thoroughly to remove most of the thorns, then wear gloves throughout the process.

@mamalatinatips Learn how to peel prickly pears. Also known as cactus fruit, these fruits are sweet, juicy and packed with fiber. Eat them raw or in agua fresca or with chili powder. #mamalatinatips #pricklypear #tunas #casatiktok #howtopeel ♬ original sound – Silvia Martinez – Mexican Food

Health benefits

Prickly pear is rich in nutrients and has multiple health benefits:

Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure, muscle and nervous system function.

Fiber: They improve the functioning of the intestinal and digestive system, contribute to weight loss and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Calcium and other minerals: They prevent osteoporosis.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties: They enhance the overall health of the body.

Vitamin C: It protects against cancer and heart diseases.

Vitamin A: It supports eye and skin health and improves the functioning of the digestive and urinary systems.

Magnesium: Improves mood, bone health and treats migraines and hypertension.

Flavonoids: They work against cancer and heart disease.

Weight loss: One portion (150g) contains only 61 calories.

With all these benefits, maybe it’s time to add prickly pear to your diet? Try it and enjoy its rich nutrients and pleasant taste.