🇲🇽 Mexico · Food
Ensalada de Nopales
By eatmundo · August 3, 2026
A refreshing and healthy salad made from fresh cactus paddles. This dish is a staple of Mexican home cooking, celebrated for its unique texture and vibrant, earthy flavor profile.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Clean the cactus paddles by scraping off the thorns and rinsing thoroughly.
- 2
Cut the cactus into small, bite-sized squares using a sharp knife.
- 3
Boil the cactus in salted water for 15 minutes until bright green and tender.
- 4
Drain the cactus and let it cool completely in a colander.
- 5
Dice the tomatoes and onion, and finely chop the cilantro and chili.
- 6
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled cactus with all the vegetables.
- 7
Drizzle with olive oil and adjust the salt to taste.
- 8
Top with crumbled feta cheese right before serving to maintain texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ensalada de Nopales?+
Ensalada de nopales is a Mexican salad consisting primarily of diced cactus paddles mixed with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, serrano chilis, and feta cheese. It is commonly served as a refreshing side dish or a light appetizer.
Can I use canned cactus?+
Yes, but drain and rinse it well to remove the brine flavor.
Does it have to be cold?+
It is best served at room temperature or chilled as a salad.
What is the texture like?+
It is slightly crisp, similar to green beans.
Is it vegetarian?+
Yes, it is entirely meat-free.
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