This vibrant fruit, also known as cactus fruit or sabra, thrives in arid climates and has been enjoyed for centuries. Packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins, prickly pear offers a delicious and healthy treat. Our homemade prickly pear pops, zesty with lime, capture the essence of this sunny superfruit in every icy bite.
These fruits are indeed a symbol of Israel. The Hebrew word "sabra" refers both to the fruit and to a native-born Israeli, reflecting the tough exterior and sweet interior often associated with the people. These resilient plants thrive in the country's arid climate, producing abundant crops of the refreshing fruit. Learn more about the history of prickly pears in Israel.
Ingredients
Servings 8
- 6 prickly pears
- 4 limes peeled and kept whole or about ½ cup lime juice
- 2 slices watermelon slices optional
- ½ cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar or agave
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Ice and lime wheels for serving
Nutritional Facts
Nutrition Facts
Prickly Pear Pops
Amount per Serving
Calories
75
% Daily Value*
Fat
1
g
2
%
Saturated Fat
0.02
g
0
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
0.1
g
Monounsaturated Fat
0.03
g
Sodium
151
mg
7
%
Potassium
284
mg
8
%
Carbohydrates
19
g
6
%
Fiber
4
g
17
%
Sugar
8
g
9
%
Protein
1
g
2
%
Vitamin A
424
IU
8
%
Vitamin C
16
mg
19
%
Calcium
17
mg
2
%
Iron
0.4
mg
2
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Instructions
- I recommend wearing gloves when peeling prickly pears. Using a paring knife, working away from you, carefully scrape off any cactus thorns. Cut off the ends of the fruit and, using the tip of the knife, score the fruit lengthwise. Slip your thumb under the skin and peel the fruit. Discard the peel and thorns.
- In a blender, combine peeled prickly pears, whole peeled limes, watermelon, water, sugar or agave and salt, puree until smooth.
- Pour through a wire-mesh strainer; discard solids. Pour liquid into popsicle molds. Freeze until firm, at least 4 hours.
