Yellow dragon fruit

Yellow dragon fruit is one of nature's most nutritious foods. It is also known as pitahaya amarilla. Its skin color is eye-catching yellow. There are small black seeds with white juicy flesh inside. Its taste is sweet. Basically, yellow dragon fruit is packed with essential nutrients. It is very beneficial for our health. Today, in this article, I will share with you everything you need to know about the yellow dragon fruit's nutritional profile, health benefits, how to eat it and how to grow it at home. First, let's know what yellow dragon fruit is.

What is Yellow Dragon Fruit?

Yellow dragon fruit is a tasty tropical fruit. It is the fruit of a cactus species. It is cultivated in warm and tropical regions including Asia, South America and Central America. It is sweeter and tastier than red and pink dragon fruit. The fruit is called golden pitaya for its vibrant yellow color. It has white juicy flesh filled with small seeds inside. It tastes just like a mix of a kiwi and a pear. Basically, everyone loves yellow dragon fruit for its mildly sweet taste and numerous health benefits.

Nutrition of Yellow Dragon Fruit

Yellow dragon fruit is a nutrient powerhouse. It is low in calories but rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Basically, Yellow dragon fruit contains Vitamin A, B1, B2, B3, and C, calcium, magnesium, Iron, phosphorus, potassium, macronutrients, carbohydrates, fiber, protein, healthy fats, antioxidants, betalains, polyphenols, flavonoids, high water content, phytonutrients etc.

Yellow Dragon Fruit Benefits

Yellow dragon fruit is very nutritious. It boosts our immune system, fights against infections, reduces the severity of colds and speeds up recovery, helps in digestion, regulates bowel movements, prevents constipation, fights against free radicals that cause skin aging, reduces inflammation, promotes collagen production, protects the skin from damage, loses weight, keeps our body hydrated, maintains proper fluid balance in the body and helps in muscle function, keeps the heart good, lowers the levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and promotes good cholesterol (HDL) and regulates blood pressure. Above all, yellow dragon fruit reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke.

How to Eat Yellow Dragon Fruit

Yellow dragon fruit is a versatile fruit. You can eat it alone without adding anything. On the other hand, you can add it to different types of food. Now Check out how to enjoy it below:

Step-by-Step Guide:

Choose a Ripe Dragon Fruit: When buying the yellow dragon fruit, choose a ripe fruit that is a bright yellow color with no blemishes.
Cut the Fruit: Cut the fruit in half lengthwise using a sharp knife. Then separate the flesh from the skin with a spoon. Then enjoy it by making small pieces according to your preference.
Enjoy in Recipes: Yellow dragon fruit is delicious itself. But you can add it to fruit salads, smoothies, yogurt bowls or even sorbets and desserts.
Recipes Using Yellow Dragon Fruit

Two simple and delicious recipes for eating dragon fruit have been shared with you below.

1. Yellow Dragon Fruit Smoothie

Ingredients:

1 yellow dragon fruit without skin
1 banana
1/2 cup coconut water
1 tablespoon chia seeds
A handful of ice cubes

Instructions:

Add all ingredients to a blender.
Blend until smooth and creamy.
Refrigerate it for half an hour.
Pour into a glass and enjoy it as a refreshing and nutrient-packed drink.

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2. Yellow Dragon Fruit Salad

Ingredients:

1 yellow dragon fruit (cubed)
1 cup watermelon (cubed)
1 cup pineapple (cubed)
1 tablespoon lime juice
A handful of mint leaves

Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine the dragon fruit, watermelon and pineapple.
Drizzle with lime juice and toss gently.
Add fresh mint leaves.
Serve as a light and refreshing salad.

Growing Yellow Dragon Fruit

If you live in a tropical or subtropical area, you can grow yellow dragon fruit in your garden. How to grow yellow dragon fruit is mentioned below:

Step-by-Step Guide:

Choose a sunny location: Dragon fruit grows well in warm and sunny places with temperatures of 65-85°F (18-30°C). So, you have to choose a place where it gets at least 6 hours of sunlight every day.
Planting: Plant dragon fruit in well-drained loamy soil. Be careful of accumulating water at the roots. You can plant dragon fruit from seeds or cuttings. Cuttings will give you faster results.
Support structure: Dragon fruit grows as a climbing cactus. So, you have to provide it with a trellis or support system for its vertical growth.
Watering: Water the plant regularly. But avoid over-watering. Actually, dragon fruit plants are drought-tolerant. So, keep the soil from getting waterlogged.
Fertilizing: Apply balanced fertilizer to dragon fruit to increase fruit production. Fertilize less during the winter months.
Harvesting: If you take care of it properly, you will get dragon fruit within 6 to 9 months. Harvest the dragon fruit when the fruit turns bright yellow and softens a bit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is yellow dragon fruit better than red?

A: Both varieties are packed with valuable nutrients. But yellow dragon fruit is sweeter and less tart than the red variety. It depends on personal preference.

Q2: How to tell if yellow dragon fruit is ripe?

A: When the skin of the yellow dragon fruit is vibrant, golden yellow and slightly soft, you will know the fruit is ripe.

Q3: Can I eat the seeds of yellow dragon fruit?

A: Yes, the tiny black seeds inside the fruit are completely edible. You can eat the seeds of yellow dragon fruit surely.

Q4: Does yellow dragon fruit cause any side effects?

A: In moderation, yellow dragon fruit is safe for most people. However, some may experience digestive issues if eaten in large quantities due to its fiber content.

Q5: How long does it take to grow yellow dragon fruit?

A: Usually, it takes about 6–9 months for a yellow dragon fruit plant to start bearing fruit after planting. However, this can vary depending on varieties and growing conditions.

Finally, yellow dragon fruit is a delicious and nutritious tropical fruit. It has a wide range of health benefits. If you want to be free from serious diseases, you can eat this sweet, refreshing and vibrant fruit which is a fantastic choice. In fact, it is a versatile fruit that can be enjoyed on its own, added to smoothies and salads, or even grown in your garden if you live in the right climate. With its rich nutrient profile and delightful taste, yellow dragon fruit is a golden gem worth adding to your diet. Whether you're a health enthusiast or simply a food lover, this tropical delight has something for everyone. So, the next time when you look for a sweet and healthy snack, you will buy a yellow dragon fruit and enjoy its golden benefits.

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