In the wild beauty of Sicily, the prickly pear cactus stands tall — a symbol of resilience, renewal, and vitality. Flourishing under the Sicilian sun, this vibrant fruit is not only a staple of the island’s diet but also a hero ingredient in our skincare, celebrated for its antioxidant-rich, hydrating, and soothing properties.
This spring, bring the soul of Sicily to your table with a seasonal menu inspired by the prickly pear. Each dish is light, nourishing, and full of natural goodness. Whether you're hosting a Sunday lunch or indulging in a quiet moment of self-care, these recipes offer a holistic taste of wellness from within.
Main: Prickly Pear & Citrus Salad
Ingredienti:
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2 prickly pears, sliced
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1 orange, segmented
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1 grapefruit, segmented
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A handful of fresh basil leaves
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1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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1 tsp honey
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A pinch of sea salt
Preparazione:
- Wear gloves to handle prickly pear. Cut off both ends of the fruit, then make a shallow slit lengthwise down the skin.
- Gently peel off the skin, and slice the prickly pear into thin rounds.
- Arrange the prickly pear slices and citrus segments on a plate.
- Drizzle with olive oil and honey.
- Sprinkle with sea salt and fresh basil.
- Serve chilled for a refreshing, nutrient-rich dish.
Dessert: Almond & Prickly Pear Granita
A naturally sweet and cooling finish that echoes traditional Sicilian street-side granita.
Ingredienti:
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1 cup prickly pear pulp (from about 3–4 fruits)
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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2 tbsp Sicilian almond syrup or finely ground almonds
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1 tbsp sugar or agave (optional, depending on fruit sweetness)
Preparazione:
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Blend the prickly pear pulp, lemon juice, almond syrup, and sweetener until smooth.
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Strain to remove seeds, then pour into a shallow dish.
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Freeze for 1 hour, then scrape with a fork.
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Repeat scraping every 30 minutes for 2–3 hours until a fluffy, icy texture forms.
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Serve in small cups with a sprig of mint.
