Easy Dragon Fruit Strawberry Parfait Recipe

Quick & Creamy Dragon Fruit Parfait (Ready in 15 Minutes!)

This easy dragon fruit parfait recipe combines exotic dragon fruit with sweet strawberries and creamy mascarpone for a refreshing, protein-rich dessert. Perfect for summer breakfasts or elegant dinner party finales, these colorful parfaits take just 15 minutes to prepare and require no baking!

What is Dragon Fruit and Why You'll Love It in This Parfait

Dragon fruit (pitaya) is a stunning tropical fruit with vibrant pink skin and white flesh dotted with tiny black seeds. Its mild sweetness pairs perfectly with strawberries in this parfait recipe. Dragon fruit offers impressive nutritional benefits, including:

• Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C
• High in fiber and prebiotics
• Contains essential minerals like iron and magnesium
• Low in calories but satisfying

When combined with protein-packed Greek yogurt and indulgent mascarpone cheese, this dragon fruit parfait creates a balanced treat that's both delicious and nutritious.

Ingredients for Dragon Fruit Strawberry Parfait (Serves 4)

• 2 medium dragon fruits (pitayas), peeled and diced (about 2 cups)
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 cup mascarpone cheese, room temperature
• 2 cups Greek yogurt (full-fat recommended)
• 3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional toppings: granola, mint leaves, chia seeds

How to Make Dragon Fruit Strawberry Parfait - Step by Step

1. Prepare the fruit: Wash and pat dry the strawberries. Hull and slice them into bite-sized pieces. Cut the dragon fruit in half, scoop out the flesh, and dice into 1/2-inch cubes.
2. Make the cream mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth. Add honey or maple syrup and vanilla extract, stirring until well combined.
3. Assemble the parfaits: In clear glasses or mason jars, create alternating layers starting with a spoonful of the cream mixture, followed by dragon fruit, then more cream, and strawberries. Repeat layers until glasses are filled, finishing with a layer of fruit on top.
4. Serve or chill: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add optional toppings like granola just before serving to maintain crunchiness.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

• Make it vegan: Substitute the mascarpone and Greek yogurt with dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt and vegan cream cheese.
• Boost the protein: Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder to the yogurt mixture.
• Seasonal swap: Replace strawberries with other berries or seasonal fruits like peaches or mango.
• Meal prep option: Prepare in portable containers for a grab-and-go breakfast or snack.

Nutrition Information

Each serving of this dragon fruit strawberry parfait provides approximately:

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 19g
• Fiber: 5g
• Calcium: 15% of daily value

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dragon fruit parfait ahead of time?

Yes! These parfaits can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator for best results.

Where can I find dragon fruit?

Dragon fruit is available at most supermarkets, Asian grocery stores, and specialty produce shops. Look for firm fruits with bright, evenly colored skin.

Can I use frozen dragon fruit or strawberries?

Absolutely! Thaw frozen fruit before adding to your parfait or use still partially frozen for a more ice-cream-like texture.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

The standard recipe contains natural sugars from the fruits. For a keto version, reduce the fruit portions and replace honey with a keto-friendly sweetener.

Enjoy this vibrant dragon fruit strawberry parfait as a nutritious breakfast, elegant dessert, or anytime treat that brings tropical flavor to your table in minutes!