Learn how to choose, cut, and enjoy this tropical fruit at its juicy best.

If you’ve been too intimidated to try this otherworldly-looking fruit, no need to hesitate.

We’ll dive into the details of the fruit’s flavorandnutritional value.

Dragon fruit cut in halves

Credit:Jake Sternquist

What Is Dragon Fruit, Exactly?

However, the inside of ripe dragon fruit is beautifully sweet and similar in texture tokiwi flesh.

So what does dragon fruit taste like?

Dragon fruit on cutting board

Credit:Jake Sternquist

Some equate it to a mash-up of a kiwi, a pear, and awatermelon.

Translation: Very delicious.

Dragon Fruit Varieties

Keep your eye out for the four main varieties of dragon fruit.

Diced dragon fruit on cutting board

Credit:Jake Sternquist

When Is Dragon Fruit in Season?

According to theAgricultural Marketing Resource Center, June through September is prime time for fresh, ripe dragon fruit.

The fruit should be bright, evenly colored, and give just a little when touchedjust like afresh peach.

dragonfruit salad

Credit:BHG / Abbey Littlejohn

Store them on the counter until ready for use.

Once it starts to brown or seems too mushy,compostor toss it.

When you’re ready to cut your dragon fruit, round up a cutting board and a sharp knife.

Slice the fruit down the middle, stem to root, to create two halves.

Then, using a spoon, trace around the inside of the skin to carve out the flesh.

Dragon fruit is mildly sweet, with tender flesh that can be scooped with a spoon.

The pink dragon fruit with red flesh is the highest in betalains, which can reduce bad cholesterol.

In reality, all types of dragon fruit are high in fiber.