Prickly Pear (Cactus Fruit)

Have you ever tried a prickly pear? Also known as Optunia.  First thing you need to be aware of this fruit is grown on a cactus so it does have many prickles that do hurt if you get pricked.  Be very careful when handling.  Perhaps use a produce bag as a "glove"
To prepare...just cut in half and scoop out the insides with a spoon.
The inside of the fruit is full of seeds.  We just cut it into chunks and ate the seeds...if you don't like eating seeds this may not be the fruit for you.

Prickly pear provides essential nutrients. It is also a source of carbohydrates and is an excellent source of antioxidants, having substantial amounts of vitamin C. 

Some of the health benefits associated with prickly pear:

• Immune support
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Helps manage cholesterol

Some of the nutrients found in prickly pear cactus:

Flavonoids | Pectin | Vitamin A | Vitamin B | Vitamin C

A short video of finding prickly pear and how to eat.  I do find it easier to just cut in half and scoop insides out then peeling.