Yellow Dragon Fruit – Exotic and Nutritious

Are you looking for something both exotic and nutritious? Yellow dragon fruit is quickly becoming a superfruit that satisfies both needs.

Native to Central America and northern South America, this brightly colored, citrusy-tasting treat provides plenty of antioxidants and vitamins to help your body stay healthy.

Plus, the vibrant yellow spiky skin makes it an eye-catching addition to any dish!

Please read on to find out why yellow dragon fruit deserves its place in the limelight as a nutritional powerhouse and flavor sensation.

What is Yellow Dragon Fruit?

Yellow dragon fruit, also called yellow pitahaya or yellow pitaya, is a unique-looking and nutrient-rich member of the cactus plant family.

It has an unmistakable yellow skin; when cut into, it reveals a sweet white flesh with tiny black seeds.

The taste of this yellow spiky fruit has been described as having a hint of sweetness mixed with subtle notes of tartness.

It is prized both for its health benefits and culinary uses. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, there are countless ways to enjoy this exotic treat, including eating it fresh or adding it to smoothies, sauces, or salads.

Its brightly colored appearance also adds a showstopping touch to any dessert.

With its unique flavor and versatility in recipes, it’s no wonder why yellow dragon fruit is becoming increasingly popular.

Related: 13 Delicious Types of Papaya

Yellow Dragon Fruit vs. Other Dragon Fruit Varieties

Among the various dragon fruit species, the yellow dragon fruit stands out due to its distinctively bright hue. It has gained popularity recently for its unique flavor, nutritional benefits, and unique appearance.

The yellow variety is known for being sweeter than the bright red skin or pink varieties and having lower acidity levels, giving it a smooth taste that is popular among many.

While the yellow dragon fruit contains white flesh with black seeds, some varieties have bright purple or red flesh with black or white seeds.

It is clear why the yellow dragon fruit has become one of the favorites amongst the many different dragon fruits, including the popular red and pink dragon fruits.

Health Benefits of Yellow Dragon Fruit

Yellow dragon fruit, just like red dragon fruit, is a nutrient-rich superfood with many health benefits. High in fiber and antioxidants, yellow pitahaya can help to support digestion and improve overall health. 

The vitamins and minerals found in yellow dragon fruit, such as vitamin C and magnesium, strengthen the immune system and promote heart health. Additionally, it is a natural energy booster due to its high levels of B vitamins, allowing you to stay energized throughout your day. 

With its sweet taste and unique texture, dragon fruit is an easy way to reap the numerous rewards of this nutritious powerhouse food.

Read more on the health benefits of dragon fruits.

Nutrients Found in Dragon Fruit

Dragon fruit is one of the most nutrient-rich fruits on the planet. Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, yellow dragon fruit is a powerhouse of nutrition. 

This exotic tropical fruit provides abundant antioxidants and is especially high in B vitamins and carotene. It also contains abundant vital minerals like phosphorous, calcium, iron, and magnesium. 

Not only that, but dragon fruit is also a great source of dietary fiber and contains substantial amounts of protein, giving it an extra nutritional punch!

How to Select a Ripe Dragon Fruit

It’s essential to select the best ripe fruit when shopping for it; an unripe dragon fruit can be bitter and sour.

However, selecting a ripe one can be tricky since they have a hard outer shell. To ensure you pick the sweetest yellow dragon fruit, look for one with bright yellow skin and slightly leathery skin with no brown or blemishes.

Gently press your fingers against the sides of the fruit; if it gives way easily without being mushy, it’s likely ripe.

How to Eat Yellow Dragon Fruit

Eating yellow dragon fruit is an enjoyable experience that anyone can easily do.

Start by slicing off the top and bottom of the fruit. Hold the dragon fruit in your hand and score it into quarters, cutting slightly through the rind but careful not to cut too deep.

Separate the quarters and pull away from each other until the inner flesh is revealed, almost like cutting open a melon.

Once you have exposed the flesh, begin eating with a spoon, scooping out small bites.

How to Cut Yellow Dragon Fruit

Start by washing and drying the outside of these exotic fruits, then set the dragon fruit on its side and use a sharp knife to slice off one of its ends.

Once one end is cut off, it will be easier to hold on to for slicing through the remainder of the skin in a circular motion.

After slicing all the way around, end with the original cut that was made to begin with, and remove the peel.

Lastly, turn your dragon fruit over and slice it into cubes or whatever shape is desired!

Dragon fruits are often eaten raw as they have a lovely texture and balance of sweetness, but they are also good mixed into drinks or added to salads.

Related: African Pear – The Unique African Fruit

Yellow Dragon Fruit Taste

Dragon fruit is a very sweet and sour fruit with a flavor similar to kiwi and pear.

The fruit’s exterior is yellow or yellow-orange, while the inside has small black seeds surrounded by white flesh.

When ripe, the skin can be opened by cutting it in half lengthwise to reveal this unique pulp.

The taste of yellow dragon fruit is known for its sweetness, with slight acidity and light notes of tartness. It doesn’t have a strong aftertaste like some other fruits, but rather a subtle refreshing flavor that lingers in your mouth.

All in all, this tropical fruit has an exotic flavor profile and can be used to make smoothies, salads, desserts, and more.

Interesting Ways to Prepare and Enjoy Yellow Pitaya

Though more commonly used in smoothies or for juicing, yellow dragon fruit can also be added to fruit salads or a splash of refreshing flavor.

It pairs particularly well with citrus, so adding lemon or lime juice gives a delicious, slightly tangy twang. Add it to a fruit salsa or as part of fruit kebabs.

Furthermore, yellow pitaya makes a beautiful dessert when roasted with honey or cinnamon.

You can chop and freeze it to create a flavorful and colorful frozen treat, making great ice creams.

Mixing it with other fruits like kiwi or strawberries creates a more wonderfully pleasing combination of textures and flavors.

Related – Fruits That Start With the Letter T

Where to Find Yellow Dragon Fruit and How Much Does It Cost

Yellow dragon fruit, or pitaya, is a unique and exotic fruit found in Southeast Asia and Central America.

Those looking for yellow pitaya in North America may have trouble finding it. Still, thankfully, it can be easily bought online at many specialty grocery stores and health food shops specializing in imported produce.

Buying this fruit with yellow skin online will cost between $3-5 per piece, depending on the size and season.

So if you’re looking for a delicious, new fruit adventure to take your taste buds on, yellow dragon fruit is a perfect choice!

How to Store Dragon Fruit

Storing dragon fruit properly can be tricky since it is such an exotic and unique fruit. 

The best way to store these beautiful pieces of produce is to keep them in a cool, dry place away from excessive heat or direct sunlight. 

Refrigeration can help dragon fruit last longer, but make sure that the temperature remains below 40°F (5°C). 

Additionally, you should use the ripened dragon fruit within 2-3 days of purchasing it. Failing to do so can lead to quicker degradation of the cut dragon fruit’s flavor, sweetness, and overall quality.

Related – Fruits that Start With the Letter T

How to Grow Yellow Dragon Fruit Plant

Growing yellow dragon fruit can be an exciting gardening experience that yields sweet and beautiful tropical fruits.

The first step to growing this exciting plant is obtaining a mature plant from a nursery or garden center.

It’s important to note that this is not a plant you can start from seed but needs a fully formed plant for the best harvests.

When planting, choose an area with plenty of sun, good drainage, and slightly acidic soil.

Be sure to allow for good aeration, as these finicky plants do not like wet feet! After planting the established dragon fruit, add organic compost or fertilizer each spring and apply water regularly. 

In time, you’ll be rewarded with some amazing yellow dragonfruit!

Related – 12 Unique Fruits that Start With the Letter U

Summary

If prepared correctly, this exotic cactus fruit offers a unique experience and plenty of health benefits.

It is incredibly delicious, and you also enjoy a great source of essential vitamins and antioxidants.

If you’re looking for something different to experiment with in your kitchen that will bring plenty of health benefits, look no further than yellow dragon fruit!

Organic produce may cost more than conventional produce, but your investment is definitely worth the cost when it comes to this flavorful tropical fruit.

Related

• 19 African Fruits You Need to Try
• Top 20 Fruits in Zanzibar

FAQ

What is Pitaya Amarilla?

Pitaya Amarilla is the Spanish name for yellow dragon fruit. Pitaya is the name for dragon fruit, and Amarilla translates to yellow. 

It is an exotic and sweet tropical fruit native to central and south America, with a unique taste reminiscent of kiwi and pear with slight hints of tartness and sweet flavor.