Meet the humble pitaya, 2013's super fruit

GOJI and acai berries, pomegranates and papayas have all been hailed as super fruits in the past. This year, it's the turn of the pitaya.

pitaya

GOJI and acai berries, pomegranates and papayas have all been hailed as super fruits in the past. This year, it's the turn of the pitaya.

The pitaya - otherwise known as Dragon Fruit - is the fruit of a species of cactus that originates in South America and is now grown in Thailand, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and the Philippines. It is just as beneficial for your body eaten fresh or dried.

The green-leaved fruit is full of edible black seeds, its flesh is sweet and sharp and tastes similar to kiwi fruit. It is rich in fibre, calcium and vitamin C - approximately 50 percent of your daily vitamin C requirement can be met by eating 100 g of dried dragon fruit.

Pitaya helps lower cholesterol, and the fruit's vitamin B-3 content is also thought to enhance the appearance of your skin, keeping it smooth.

In some countries, diabetes sufferers are urged to eat pitaya to regulate blood sugar levels.

To choose the best pitaya, look for firm, bright pink skin, a flexible stem, bright green leaves and a fresh tropical smell. To eat, cut the fruit in half and dig out the flesh.

Even if the health benefits are hype, a pitaya will look absolutely glorious in your fruit bowl!

Enjoy the health benefits today and read more on how to prepare dragon fruit at taste.com.au