This is the first time I am hearing of prickly pear. It was part of the bountiful basket and it was lying in the kitchen for more than a week because I had no clue on what to do with it. Thankfully the bountiful basket facebook page came to the rescue and a lot of people suggested lemonade. I finally mustered the courage and sliced one, but the skin did not peel properly. I assumed it was because it was not ripe enough and let it remain for a few more days. My second attempt with the remaining fruits was successful and we got this adorable red juice that instantly attracted my little girl. In fact, she did not let me click and was waiting impatiently for the lemonade. The fruit has some sweetness to it and the lemonade tasted great. Did I mention that in the whole process and confusion I forgot to click the actual fruit ? . Off to the recipe.

My Notes
The spines were already removed from the pears I had.

1 year ago: Fresh Tomato Salsa
2 years ago: Healthy Zucchini Cheese Patties
3 years ago: Vegetables in Tomato-Cashew Gravy

Pictorial
1. Make sure to remove the spines carefully before using the fruit. The spines were already removed for the ones I had. Make a vertical slit on opposite sides of the fruit. Using a knife, remove the thick peel. Follow this link to prepare the pears. Chop into big chunks.2. Take the pieces along with the seeds in a blender and blend well.3. Strain to remove the seeds.4. Strained juice.5. Mix with remaining ingredients. Lemonade ready.
Fresh lemonade ready.
Enjoy!