Though my family origins are tropical, if I were ever reborn as a fruit I would choose to grow near the Equator — where warm sun and lush growth encourage plants to produce striking, flavorful fruit. Equatorial regions seem to coax out bold, exotic varieties: mangoes and papayas, passionfruit and kiwi, each vibrant in appearance and flavor.
One such intriguing fruit is the dragon fruit, also called pitaya. Despite its fierce name, pitaya is a gentle, cactus-derived fruit native to parts of Asia as well as Mexico, Central America, and South America. Its glossy, red outer skin is edged with fringe-like extensions that conceal a striking interior: white flesh speckled with tiny black seeds, or in some varieties, vivid fuchsia flesh. The texture resembles a kiwi, while the taste is pleasantly mild and refreshing rather than overpowering.
Beyond its delicate flavor, pitaya is gaining attention as a nutrient-rich superfood. It contains antioxidants and omega-3s, is relatively low in calories and sugar, and is often praised for supporting healthy digestion.
I recently learned about Pitaya Plus, a juice company founded by Chuck Casano. Inspired by his time working in Nicaragua with Agora Partnerships, Chuck developed a bottled pitaya juice that highlights the fruit’s subtle nutrition. Pitaya Plus aims to support Nicaraguan agriculture and operates with a social mission; the company also emphasizes sustainability, including the use of solar power. Their product has begun rolling out in stores such as Whole Foods across the West Coast and Colorado, and I had the opportunity to taste their juice firsthand.
The flavor of Pitaya Plus is distinct and best described as clean and subtle. It carries a faint coconut-water note and a refreshing, green undertone similar to a wheatgrass shot — cleansing and light. It felt like the ideal choice after a heavy, indulgent meal: the sort of juice that refreshes the palate and lifts the senses. My sister, who tried it during a recent visit, quickly made it her go-to after-dinner drink. Though she returned home without the juice, she was pleased to learn that Pitaya Plus ships nationally.
If you come across pitaya juice, it’s worth trying. Its uncommon flavor and nutritional profile make it one of the most interesting juices I’ve sampled, and it may well surprise and intrigue you.
