Grilled Nopales (Cactus Paddles)

nopales raw.jpg

A Succulent Side or Taco Topper

Traveling in the American Southwest you’ll see the prickly pear everywhere. Both the fruit and the cactus paddles are edible and delicious. They’re a common dish in Mexico and can be eaten alone, in a salad, with eggs, or (of course) as a taco filling.

 
 
 

PREP TIME
5 minutes

|

COOK TIME
10 minutes

|

YIELD
4 nopales

 
 
 
 

Ingredients

  • 4 prepared cactus paddles*

  • Olive oil

  • Salt to taste

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Note

The spines of the cactus should be removed and the outside edge trimmed off before cooking. You can purchase these prepared cactus paddles (nopales) in most Mexican grocery stores. 

 
 

Directions

  • Preheat your grill or open fire grate to medium heat.

  • Brush both sides of the nopales with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.

  • Grill 3 to 5 minutes per side. They are ready when there are good grill marks and the inside is soft and tender.

  • Serve warm.

 
Sides, Campfire Cooking, GrillingErica HannHealthy, Gluten Free, Vegetarian, VeganComment