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General Produce

Cactus Leaves

Cactus Leaves
Receiving Inspecting:

Good quality cactus leaves should be green with a crisp-firm texture. Avoid pads that appear dry, limp, or soggy.

Storage Handling:
 

Short-term storage recommendation (7 days or less)

  • 34-46° F/1-2° C
  • 85-95% relative humidity
Shelf-Life:
7 days.
Troubleshooting:

Bronze discoloration is an indication of chill injury. Store properly.

Decayed cut stem end is a sign of age.

Usage Ideas:

  • Trim and peel cactus leaves; chop and steam; mix with cherry tomatoes, sliced red onions, cilantro, jicama, lime juice, olive oil, and oregano; top with grilled shrimp and Cotija cheese.
  • Sauté trimmed and chopped cactus leaves until tender; toss with orange sections and mint.

Seasonality:

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Flavor Profile

Grassy and tangy, yet earthy.

Texture Profile

Although the outer pads are covered in spikes, once they are peeled, the inner flesh is chewy, almost gelatinous.

Pairings

Pair with cilantro, Cotija cheese, lime juice, oranges, and shrimp.

Substitution Suggestions

Green beans, okra.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size 1 cup cactus leaves (86g) grams
Calories 15
%Daily Value*
Total Fat 0g0%
Saturated Fat 0g0%
Trans Fat 0g
Cholesterol 0g0%
Sodium 20g1%
Total Carbohydrate 3g1%
Dietary Fiber 2g7%
Total Sugars 1g
Includes 0g Added Sugars0%
Protein 1g
Vitamin D 0mcg0%
Calcium 141mg10%
Iron 0.51mg2%
Potassium 220mg4%

*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.