Frequently asked questions
What are nopales?
Nopales are the pads of the prickly pear cactus, commonly used in Mexican cuisine.
Do nopales need to be peeled?
You don’t need to peel them, but removing their spines and trimming the edges is essential.
What do nopales taste like?
They have a slightly tart flavor and a texture similar to green beans.
Can you eat nopales raw?
Yes, nopales can be eaten raw in salads after cleaning and cutting.
Can you freeze nopales?
Yes, you can freeze nopales after cooking or blanching them; store in freezer-safe bags.
Where can I buy nopales around me?
You can buy it now on the MasGusto! Latino Market App and get it delivered to your home as fast as tomorrow.
What dishes can you make with nopales?
Try nopales salad, tacos, soup, scrambled eggs, or add them to stews and salsas.
How do you store raw nopales?
Wrap raw pads in plastic or keep in a bag in the fridge for up to a week.
How do you prepare nopales for cooking?
Wash the pads, trim the edges, remove spines, and dice or slice before cooking.
How do you cook nopales?
Boil, sauté, grill, or add them to soups and salads after cleaning and dicing.
How do you remove the slime from nopales?
Boil them in water with a little salt, then rinse them, or cook in a dry skillet until the slime evaporates.
How long do cooked nopales last in the fridge?
Cooked nopales will last about 3-4 days refrigerated in an airtight container.
Where can I buy nopales?
You can buy it at MasGusto! Latino Market, www.masgusto.com.
Are canned nopales as good as fresh ones?
Canned nopales are convenient but may be softer and more acidic; fresh is preferred for best texture.
Do you need to cook nopales after buying them in a jar?
Jarred nopales are precooked and ready to use, but you can rinse them and sauté, if desired.
Can nopales be used in smoothies?
Yes, you can blend raw nopales with fruit and veggies for a nutritious smoothie.













































































