Prickly Pear

Selection Information

Other Names:

Cactus Pear, Tuna Fruit, Indian Figs and Mission Cactus

Usage:

Eaten fresh, juices, marmalades, jelly, ice cream & dessert sauces.

Selection:

Good-quality Prickly Pear is egg-shaped and has yellow to magenta coloring depending on the variety. Ripen prickly pears at room temperature. The small seeds are edible, but the rind is not. Be careful of spines that were not removed.

Avoid:

Avoid product that is overly soft or that has dark soft spots.

Seasonal Information

Available September through May from California and Mexico.

Prickly Pear Nutritional Information

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 Prickly Pear without refuse (103 g)

Amount Per Serving

Calories 42 Calories from Fat 4

% Daily Value*

Total Fat 1g 1%

Saturated Fat 0g 0%

Trans Fat

Cholesterol 0mg 0%

Sodium 5mg 0%

Total Carbohydrate 10g 3%

Dietary Fiber 4g 15%

Sugars

Protein 1g

Vitamin A 1% Vitamin C 24%

Calcium 6% Iron 2%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Source: PMA's Labeling Facts

Prickly Pears are low in Saturated Fat, and very low in Cholesterol and Sodium. They're also a good source of Calcium and Potassium, and a very good source of Dietary Fiber, Vitamin C and Magnesium.