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All About Dragon Fruit: How To Make The Perfect Dragon Fruit Smoothie

The term “dragon fruit” refers to the fruit’s sharp scales, which some people have compared to an artichoke or a dragon. 

Although pink skinned and white-fleshed dragon fruit are the most frequent, you can also find purple, crimson, and even yellow-fleshed varieties—the latter of which has a matching yellow skin.

All About Dragon Fruit: How To Make The Perfect Dragon Fruit Smoothie

Like a kiwi, they all have tiny delicious black seeds.

Dragon fruit is now primarily linked to Asia. This is so because Vietnam, which continues to be the world’s top exporter of dragon fruit, was introduced to it by the French in the early 1800s.

These vivid fruits have a flavor that has been compared to a hybrid between a pear and a kiwi and are somewhat sweet.

The creamy flesh is loaded with small delicious seeds. If its taste isn’t as vivid as its color, don’t be dissatisfied.

Dragon fruit is regarded as a very nutrient-dense fruit with only 60 calories. In contrast to other tropical fruits, dragon fruit has less sugar and carbohydrates.

Dragon fruit is available all year round, even though its prime season is from June to September. If your neighborhood supermarket does not carry it, look in specialty shops or Asian markets.

Here we’re going to discuss dragon fruit and how you can make a delicious and nutritious dragon fruit smoothie!

Dragon Fruit: What Is It?

The name “dragon fruit” refers to the fruit’s look, which is somewhat similar to an artichoke. The sharp “scales” that surround the oval fruit have a dragon-like appearance.

Simply split the fruit in half and scoop out the pulp with a spoon to prepare it. Dragon fruit may be a little expensive, depending on the type and the region where it was grown. 

It’s a very healthy fruit and is low in calories and sugar. Its beautiful coloration is great for making interesting looking and tasty smoothies!

Uses For Dragon Fruit

Dragon fruit is often consumed raw, whether it is presented whole, chopped, blended, or frozen. However, it is also possible to grill, for instance, and pineapple or another fruit can be added to the skewers.

Dragon fruit is simple to cut, despite the appearance of its rough exterior. On a chopping board or other spotless surface, arrange the dragon fruit.

A sharp knife should be used to slice the fruit in half, creating two portions.

The fruit’s flesh can be easily removed and prepared similarly to presenting an avocado. Remove the flesh from the skin by circling each piece with a tablespoon.

Lift the meat from the skin using the spoon, then set it on the chopping board. Slice or chop the meat after turning the pile of flesh over, making sure there is no remaining pink skin.

What Flavor Does Dragon Fruit Have?

The flavor of dragon fruit has been described as “tropical,” being sweet and delicate. It has been compared to a hybrid of the kiwi and pear or the watermelon (Check out How To Make A Refreshing And Delicious Watermelon Pizza).

Like kiwifruit, the texture is fairly creamy and contains tiny seeds.

Varieties Of Dragon Fruit

The various varieties of dragon fruit may technically be classified by genus, species, and hybrids. 

While Selenicereus only contains one type of dragon fruit, the genus Hylocereus includes different varieties, each of which includes a number of hybrids.

Dragon fruit can, however, be divided into several groups based on the color of its flesh and skin.

The most popular dragon fruit is a pink-skinned, white-fleshed variety called Hylocereus undatus.

In comparison to the more popular form, Hylocereus polyrhizus frequently grows larger and tastes sweeter. It has pink skin and red or pink flesh.

The third fruit species in this genus is called Hylocereus guatemalensis. It has purple meat and bright pink skin. It is sold as American Beauty and is native to South and Central America. It is also grown in Florida.

The tiniest and sweetest variety features white flesh and a yellow coat. Selenicereus megalanthus, which is mostly grown in South America, is the most challenging to locate because it isn’t mass-produced.

Recipes For Dragon Fruit

Recipes For Dragon Fruit

Cut up or eaten straight out of the peel, dragon fruit is frequently relished on its own. Take a spoon out of the container and dig in; it’s the ideal fruit for a fast snack. 

The fruit cubes can either be transferred to a dish and eaten there, or they can be placed back into the fruit’s shell to serve.

Or, for a more attractive presentation, scoop out all the dragon fruit’s pulp with a melon baller.

Tuna, cod, and mahi-mahi are three fish meals that go especially well with dragon fruit. The fruit can be served separately or chopped finely and added to the fish like a salsa. 

Mix dragon fruit with pineapple, mango, papaya, or nearly any other tropical fruit. The sweet flavor of dragon fruit also allows for some delectable cocktails (see also: 10 Superb Low-Calorie Cocktails Recipes Everyone Will Love!)and frozen treats.

How To Purchase Dragon Fruit

Although the season for dragon fruit peaks in the summer and can last into early October, it is available all year long. 

Although it is simple to detect in any fruit market because of its gnarly-looking skin, not all supermarkets stock dragon fruit.

If your neighborhood grocery store does not carry it, try an Asian market or specialist shop.

Look for a fresh dragon fruit with brilliant, uniformly colored skin. A few skin imperfections are common, whereas if the fruit does have many, it can be overripe. 

Try to press the skin of the dragon fruit with your fingers or thumb while holding it in your palm. It should be slightly flexible but not mushy or soft. It must ripen for several days if it is quite firm.

Dragon Fruit Storage

On the counter, ripe dragon fruit might keep for a few days. Fruit should be put in a resealable bag and kept in the refrigerator to last longer.

This fruit can absorb aromas and scents from other foods, therefore it must be wrapped properly.

Before you’re ready to consume it, wait to cut your dragon fruit. Like most sliced fruits, it must be chilled in a securely sealed bag after being cut. 

According to how ripe it is, it can remain good for a day, probably a bit longer. Throw the flesh away as soon as it starts to turn the color brown and become mushy.

Dragon Fruit Smoothies

Eat the rainbow, as the saying goes, and try this recipe for the greatest pink puree you’ve ever had. Try this smoothie with dragon fruit!

Tropical dragon fruit is delectable and has gained enormous popularity in smoothies. 

Because who could refuse that gorgeous fuchsia color! This tropical fruit tastes sweet, tangy, and absolutely excellent when combined with banana, mango, and pineapple to create a vivid puree. 

Ingredients For Dragon Fruit Smoothies

You won’t believe the vibrant color of a dragon fruit smoothie after blending it up! It’s challenging to take your eyes off the stunningly vivid hue. 

Although dragon fruit is frequently served in smoothie bowls (think of an acai bowl featuring loads of toppings), we prefer it best as a pure smoothie.

More on that is below! The components you’ll require to make this smoothie recipe are listed below:

The easiest source of dragon fruit puree for smoothies is in the freezer area of your local supermarket. Find out more below!

  • Banana: It’s not necessary to freeze; just use a banana that is at room temperature!
  • Mango and pineapple: These are also readily available frozen at your neighborhood grocery store, which enhances their cold texture and sweet-tart flavor.
  • Lime juice: This one is optional if you don’t have any on hand because it helps to bring out the tangy flavor.
Advice For Making A Smoothie Using Dragon Fruit

Advice For Making A Smoothie Using Dragon Fruit

Getting a frozen puree smoothie to blend is the only challenging aspect. Using a lot of chilly substances can occasionally cause the blender to become stuck. 

Use a quality blender. Of course, any blender will work for this smoothie, but a good blender will make things a lot simpler! A high-speed blender is the best option.

The packages should be defrosted in warm water before being cut into smaller pieces. Next, take the wrapping off. For blending, cutting them into smaller pieces is beneficial.

First, add the water to the blender’s base. This prevents the blades from freezing up when the fruit is frozen and helps them spin freely.

If extra water is required, add it. Stop, scrape, and add a little more water as required to achieve the desired texture for the smoothie. Just be careful not to add too much water, as this can dilute the flavor.

Protein Boosters

Would you like to add vegan protein? Here are a few ideas:

  • Nut butter, one spoonful. Almond butter or peanut butter are the best nut butters to go with the tropical flavors. It adds 4 grams of protein per tablespoon.
  • Chia seeds, 2 teaspoons. This amount gives your smoothie 4 grams of protein and 11 grams of fiber.
  • Protein powder, 1 scoop. Use your preferred protein powder to boost the meal. Smoothie with dragon fruit.

Dragon Fruit Smoothie Toppings

Want to make this smoothie with dragon fruit a more substantial meal? Add garnishes!

You may top it like an acai bowl or simply blend the toppings directly into the smoothie to make a dragon fruit bowl. Here are some suggestions for toppings:

Our preferred ingredient for smoothie toppings is almond butter. It provides the ideal amount of delicious flavor.

  • Kiwi: A great color contrast is created with sliced kiwi.
  • Pink berries: Such as strawberries or raspberries, have a lovely monochromatic appearance.
  • Darker berries: These berries contrast, whether they are blueberries or blackberries.
  • Coconut flakes: For a crunch, use toasted coconut!

Instructions For Dragon Fruit Smoothie

The iced dragon fruits, frozen mangoes, banana pieces, coconut milk or flakes, protein powder, ice cubes, plus lime juice should be added first to the jug of a high-speed blender.

Blend at maximum speed until a creamy, foamy pink smoothie forms.

Add extra frozen dragon fruit and ice cubes if the smoothie is too watery for your tastes or you want to make a dragon fruit smoothie bowl out of it.

Serve immediately, garnished with a lime slice, a handful of freeze-dried raspberries, and toasted coconut.

Is Dragon Fruit Healthy?

Yes! This fruit is tasty and full of health advantages. It contains a lot of antioxidants and immune-boosting vitamin C. It also contains a lot of magnesium, vitamin E, and fiber (7 g per cup).

Can Dragon Fruit Be Frozen?

If you purchase some dragon fruit from the supermarket, you can freeze it. Fruit can be prepared in this manner and kept on hand for smoothies like this.

Based on where you reside, it may be difficult to find dragon fruit. Decide to buy a bunch if you locate any so that you may freeze some for later.

How Should Leftover Smoothies Be Kept?

Don’t worry if you don’t finish your smoothie right away; you can save it! Your smoothie leftovers can be kept in the fridge for 1-2 days in an airtight container.

Simply stir the smoothie, pour it into your glass, and eat it when you’re ready.

Final Thoughts

Using a creamy mixture of dragon fruit, mangoes, and banana, one may create the ideal dragon fruit smoothie.

By substituting a plant-based protein for the egg and using non-dairy milk, you can make the dragon fruit smoothie vegan. 

Because dragon fruit seems to have a moderate flavor, a touch of fresh lime amplifies the tropical flavor. 

Numerous minerals, most notably high iron and vitamin C levels, can be found in dragon fruit. Its high nutrient richness and low calorie count contribute to its superfood reputation. 

We hope you enjoyed this article about dragon fruit and feel inspired to whip up a healthy and delicious dragon fruit smoothie using the instructions above.

Justin Roberts