Dragon Fruit (part 1 of 2)

I was quite skeptical about trying Dragon Fruit. The primary reason was the fruit’s unique outside made it difficult to determine what was on the inside.  However much to my surprise, I enjoyed it.  In fact, I ate the entire fruit shortly after it was photographed.
 
Dragon Fruit is also known as pitaya, pitahaya, and strawberry pear. It grows on the Hylocereus cactus. The plant is native to southern Mexico and Central America. However, it is grown all over the world.
 
Dragon Fruit is not just a beautiful fruit. It has a red skin that resembles a dragon's scales. The inside is white, speckled with seeds and it has a pulp like texture to its center.  This tropical fruit has a sweet taste and there are many health benefits to incorporating it into your diet.  This low calorie fruit is filled with dietary fiber, Iron, Magnesium, Vitamin C and E. It is also known to be antioxidant-rich fruit (Betalains, Hydroxycinnamates and Flavonoids) that contains prebiotics (a special form of dietary fiber that acts as a fertilizer for the good bacteria in your gut).
 
Dragon can be eaten by itself, added to smoothies and salads.  It interesting inside will add a pop of color to any dish.
 
XOXOXOX
Dawn



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source: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/dragon-fruit#antioxidants