If you’ve spent any time scrolling through Instagram, chances are you’ve come across and drooled over Insta-worthy Pitaya Bowls! They’re all the rage lately here in LA (and on Insta, of course!) and they’ve totally kicked Acai bowls to the back seat. For the longest time I had no idea what Pitaya was until I stopped in to a local juice shop and tried one for myself! This tasty breakfast dish is made from dragon fruit (aka Pitaya) and stands out thanks to its vibrant pink color. Pitaya is the fruit of a cactus plant that was originally discovered in Central America but also grows in Southeast Asia, South America, and California. Nowadays you can find dragon fruit at your local Whole Foods and most grocery stores during peak season, which runs from June to late December.
Source: alextcookes.com
A Pitaya bowl tastes like a creamy, tropical parfait, and despite its bright color, has a subtle flavor with pear-like and “earthy-watermelon” notes and “kiwi-like” consistency. It resembles frozen yogurt in appearance, is typically served with fresh fruit or granola on top, and is a healthy, refreshing dish that makes for the perfect power breakfast or refreshing snack – especially during these hot summer days. Packed with amazing antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, this unique dish boasts multiple health benefits and is the perfect non-guilty pleasure.
Source: http://keepinitkind.com/dragon-fruit-smoothie-bowl/
- Boosts Immunity. Dragon fruit contains dozens of minerals and vitamins, including vitamins B and C, which help fight infections and illness by strengthening your immune system, combatting cardiovascular disease, eye disease, and more.
- Aids in Weight Loss. With just 60 calories per 100 gram serving, a Pitaya bowl is a low-calorie dish that is high in fiber. It will help keep you full for longer, boosts metabolism, and increases energy levels thanks to its magnesium content – all of which contribute to weight loss.
- Anti-Aging Properties. Its abundant antioxidants fight free radicals in the body, which often cause cancer and accelerate signs of aging. Dragon fruit also contains high amounts of phosphorus, which helps maintain your skin’s youthful appearance and contributes to a healthy glow.
- Cardiovascular Health. Dragon fruit decreases bad cholesterol levels while increasing the good, and studies have shown that consumption may lower the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure as well. It is also a good source of monounsaturated fats, which help maintain heart health.
- Nervous System. Due to its significant amount of calcium, which is an important mineral that helps the nervous system function properly, regularly consuming dragon fruit will contribute to the health of nerves by preserving the myelin sheath (the protective covering of the core of a nerve fiber that transmits nerve impulses) and ensuring adequate brain signaling. The vitamin B in dragon fruit enables the body to create and maintain nerve cells, which contribute to alertness, improved focus and better concentration.
Source: instagram.com/PitayaPlus
As an added bonus, Pitaya Bowls are easy to make in your very own kitchen using PitayaPlus smoothie packs that are ready to go without any hassel! There are also many health food restaurants that serve Pitaya Bowls, as well as specialty places you can easily find with a simple Yelp search in your area. And, here’s a #StrongGirlTip…order or make your bowl blended and mixed with added protein for a complete meal (especially if you’re topping with more fruit, granola (carbs) and coconut (fat))! You can also order Pitaya as a smoothie if you are on-the-go!
Source: PitayaPlus & LoveBombCo
What do you love about Pitaya Bowls, besides thinking they’re too pretty to eat?! If you haven’t already tried this amazing super dish, it’s time to grab a spoon and reap the health benefits, especially during these summer months! I’m off to my kitchen to make one myself! xoxo
Source: instagram.com/piatayaplus
Okay last one… I promise!
Source: instagram.com/kim_le13 at Speedos Cafe in Australia
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