DRAGON FRUIT AND PINEAPPLE CUP
This Dragon Fruit and Pineapple Cup brings a burst of tropical sunshine to your plate with minimal fuss. The juicy pineapple and delicate dragon fruit combine in perfect harmony. Their contrasting textures and colours create a feast for the senses. A drizzle of fresh lime juice ties the flavours together, adding a zesty lift that brightens every bite. This dragon fruit and pineapple cup is not only visually stunning, but also naturally vegan, gluten-free and low in calories. This cup delivers a hydrating boost of vitamins C and A, antioxidants and fibre. This pineapple cup is ideal for a quick breakfast, a healthy snack or an elegant side at brunch. It requires just three simple ingredients and under five minutes to prepare, making it the ultimate uncooked treat when you crave a little island escape.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Snack
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Caribbean
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
No‑Cook, Prepared in Advance
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Picnic, Summer
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan, Vegetarian, Wheat / Gluten‑Free, Dairy‑Free, Low Fat, Low Sodium, Organic, Raw, Kid Friendly, Quick & Easy
DISH TYPE
Frozen Dessert
INGREDIENTS
- ¼ cup dragon fruit, diced (about 40 g)
- ¼ cup pineapple, diced (about 40 g)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice (about 5 ml)
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 33.3 kilocalories
- Protein: 0.4 grams
- Carbohydrates: 8.8 grams
- Fats: 0.1 grams
- Fibre: 1.0 grams
- Sugar: 4.0 grams
- Sodium: 1.7 milligrams
- Calcium: 8.7 milligrams
- Iron: 0.2 milligrams
- Potassium: 80.9 milligrams
PREPARATION
- Dice The Dragon Fruit: Trim the skin from fresh dragon fruit and slice the flesh into 1 cm cubes. Uniform pieces ensure a consistent bite and attractive presentation.
- Cube The Pineapple: Remove the tough core and rind from a fresh pineapple. Cut into 1 cm cubes to match the dragon fruit size, ensuring both fruits blend seamlessly in each spoonful.
- Combine In A Cup: Place the dragon fruit and pineapple cubes into a small serving cup or bowl. Gently toss to mix the colours and textures.
- Dress With Lime: Drizzle 1 teaspoon of freshly squeezed lime juice over the fruit. Stir once to coat all pieces, allowing the citrus to accentuate the sweetness and prevent browning.
- Chill (Optional): For maximum refreshment, refrigerate the assembled cup for 10 minutes before serving. This lets the fruits chill and the flavours meld.
- Serve: Present the cup as it is or garnish with a thin lime wheel or mint sprig for an extra pop of colour.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
0 minutes
TIPS
- Choose Ripe Fruit: Look for bright‑pink dragon fruit with no blemishes and a firm, evenly‑yellow pineapple for the best sweetness and texture.
- Dry Cubes Well: After dicing, pat fruit with kitchen paper to remove excess moisture, preserving the lime’s zing without dilution.
- Even Cubes: Match the sizes of the dragon fruit and pineapple cubes so they layer beautifully and finish simultaneously in each mouthful.
- Fresh Lime Juice: Avoid bottled juice because freshly squeezed lime provides the cleanest and most vibrant flavour.
- Single‑Serve Presentation: Clear glass cups or mason jars showcase the striking colour contrast and elevate a simple snack into a stylish treat.
- Avoid Sogginess: Dress the fruit just before serving and chill minimally to keep the cubes crisp.
VARIATIONS
- Mint Or Basil: Add 1 teaspoon chopped fresh mint or basil for an herbal twist that complements the tropical fruits.
- Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon toasted coconut flakes on top for extra crunch and a deeper island vibe.
- Berry Blend: Stir in 1 tablespoon fresh raspberries or blueberries for additional antioxidants and colour.
- Honey Drizzle: Substitute half the lime juice with ½ teaspoon honey (or agave syrup) for a softer and floral sweetness.
- Spiced Note: Dust with a pinch of ginger powder or chilli flakes for a warming or spicy kick.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Fridge: Assemble and cover the cup with cling film; store for up to two hours. Beyond this, fruit may release moisture and become soggy.
- Freezer: Freezing is not recommended because freezing alters texture, making the fruit mushy when thawed.