The dragon fruit comes from a cactus plant. The fruit itself can have red or yellow skin and white or red flesh. All varieties have overlaid leaves, similar to an artichoke, and many small, black, edible seeds inside. It has a mildly sweet flavor, like a mix of kiwi and pear. While the fruit’s appearance can be a bit intimidating, it’s easy to eat. Simply slice the fruit open and scoop out the flesh. Only the white (or sometimes pink) part with seeds is edible. The skin is bitter.

The dragon fruit is very healthy, with a high amount of vitamin C. There is an abundance of calcium, iron, and phosphorous as well. It contains no complex carbohydrates which ensures easy breakdown in the body. It has been proven to lower blood sugar levels and blood pressure, strengthen bones and teeth, promote healthy blood and tissue formation, strengthen the immune system, heal bruises and wounds faster, and prevent respiratory problems.

So aside from eating it fresh, what can you do? How about make it into a cool, refreshing cocktail?

INGREDIENTS: yields 3-4 martinis

  • 1 ripe dragon fruit (soft enough to indent skin slightly with your thumb)
  • 1/3 cup vodka
  • 1 Tbsp. freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 2-3 Tbsp. white sugar
  • 2-3 ice cubes
  • 1/4 cup coconut milk (not required)
  • garnishes: dragon fruit wedge, lime slice, or star fruit

PREPARATION: 12 minutes

  1. Scoop all flesh out of dragon fruit.
  2. Place dragon fruit flesh into blender or food processor. Add all other ingredients and blend 20-30 seconds on high speed.
  3. Taste-test for desired strength and sweetness. Add more vodka for strength or more sugar for sweetness. (Note: sweetness will also depend on the ripeness of dragon fruit). If too sweet, add more lime juice. If too strong, add more coconut milk.
  4. Pour into martini glasses and garnish.