What Is Pitaya (Dragon Fruit)? Benefits & How to Eat It
Updated June 10, 2026 · 2 min read
In short
Pitaya, or dragon fruit, is the bright-pink flesh of a climbing cactus. It tastes mild and lightly sweet — like a cross between kiwi and pear — and is rich in vitamin C, fiber and antioxidants while being low in calories and nearly fat-free. It’s usually blended into bowls and smoothies. Banana Berry in Coral Gables uses organic pitaya in the Detox Dragon smoothie and any pitaya bowl.
What is pitaya?
Pitaya — better known as dragon fruit — is the fruit of a climbing cactus grown in tropical climates. The most common variety has a bright magenta flesh flecked with tiny black seeds. It's the same fruit whether a menu says "pitaya" or "dragon fruit."
What does pitaya taste like?
Mild and lightly sweet, somewhere between kiwi and pear, with a soft, refreshing texture. It's less earthy and a bit sweeter than açaí, which is why people who find açaí too "berry" often prefer a pitaya bowl.
Is pitaya healthy? Benefits
Pitaya is naturally low in calories and fat while delivering vitamin C, fiber, magnesium and antioxidants. The fiber supports digestion and the water content makes it hydrating — handy in the Miami heat.
| Pitaya (per ~100 g) | Approx. |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~60 |
| Carbohydrates | ~13 g |
| Fiber | ~3 g |
| Fat | <1 g |
| Stands out for | Vitamin C, antioxidants, hydration |
Values are typical ranges for the raw fruit, before toppings or sweeteners.
How to eat pitaya
The easiest ways are blended — as a thick bowl base or in a smoothie — or fresh, scooped from the skin. At Banana Berry you'll find organic pitaya in:
- The Detox Dragon super smoothie (pitaya, coconut water, banana, pineapple, mango).
- Any pitaya bowl or superfood cup, topped with fresh fruit, granola, coconut and chia.
Not sure whether to get açaí or pitaya? Our açaí vs pitaya guide breaks down the difference.
FAQ
- Is dragon fruit the same as pitaya?
- Yes. Pitaya and dragon fruit are two names for the same cactus fruit. The bright-pink variety is the one most often blended into bowls and smoothies.
- Is pitaya good for you?
- Pitaya is low in calories and fat and provides vitamin C, fiber and antioxidants. Like any fruit, the bowl around it (granola, sweeteners) affects the totals.
- Does pitaya taste sweet?
- It’s mildly sweet and refreshing, closer to kiwi or pear than to a strong berry — sweeter and milder than açaí.
Try it at Banana Berry
Blended fresh to order on Alcazar Ave. Dine in or order online for pickup.
