Desert farmers' market presents dragon, passion fruits

Two exotic locally-grown fruits are now in season and making their summer appearance this week at the Palm Springs Certified Farmers’ Market. Dragon fruit and passion fruit, both of which are native to the Americas (dragon fruit to North America, and passion fruit to South America), are still not widely distributed in the United States. Though not well-known, dragon fruit (also known as pitaya) is quickly growing as a healthy ingredient in smoothies, sorbets and salads. Passion fruit is mostly known by juice producers because its addition will enhance the aroma and flavor of any juice.

Did you know: Dragon fruit is a fruit, and passion fruit is a berry.

Price: $7.50 - $9 a pound.

Michael C. Green