The easiest way to peel dragon fruit is to cut it lengthwise and pull the thick skin away from the flesh. You can also scoop the flesh out with a spoon if you want halves for bowls or cubes.
Quick Steps
- Rinse the outside and pat it dry.
- Trim off the stem end and blossom end.
- Cut the fruit in half lengthwise.
- Slide a spoon between the flesh and skin, or pull the skin back with your fingers.
- Slice, cube, or scoop the flesh.
How to Tell It Is Ready
A ripe dragon fruit should give slightly when pressed, similar to a ripe avocado. Avoid fruit with leaking spots, mold, or a fermented smell.
Peeling Method
After cutting the fruit in half, loosen one edge of the skin and peel it away. The skin is thick and flexible, so it usually separates cleanly from ripe fruit.
Spoon Method
For fruit bowls, use a spoon to scoop the flesh from each half. Then slice the scooped flesh into cubes, wedges, or rounds.
Can You Eat the Skin?
Do not eat the thick pink skin. Eat the white or red flesh and the small black seeds inside.
Serving Ideas
Serve dragon fruit chilled, add it to fruit salad, blend it into smoothies, or use cubes on yogurt, oatmeal, or dessert plates.
FAQ
Do you have to peel dragon fruit?
Yes. Eat the flesh and seeds, but remove the thick outer skin.
Can you scoop dragon fruit instead of peeling it?
Yes. Cut it in half and scoop the flesh out with a spoon.
How do you know if dragon fruit is ripe?
It should give slightly when pressed and should not smell fermented, leak, or show mold.
Are dragon fruit seeds edible?
Yes. The small black seeds in the flesh are edible.
How should peeled dragon fruit be stored?
Store cut or peeled dragon fruit covered in the refrigerator and eat it soon for the best texture.