How to Properly Eat a Grapefruit

How to Properly Eat a Grapefruit
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The nutritious, tangy grapefruit originated in Barbados in the 18th century. Grapefruit is rich in vitamin C and fiber. The fruit received its name because it looks like grape clusters when growing on trees. Grapefruit comes in three colors: white, ruby and pink. The round fruit measures 4 to 6 inches in length. The fruit can be prepared a variety of ways. Be aware grapefruit interacts with certain medication.

Step 1

Cut the grapefruit in half with a knife to create natural bowl. Sweeten the fruit with honey or sprinkle sugar on top. Use a spoon to scoop out the grapefruit flesh and enjoy.

Step 2

Divide grapefruit by cutting into small segments. Leave the skin on the grapefruit. Mix together 1 tbsp. of coconut, brown sugar and almond flakes. Sprinkle the mixture over the fruit. Grill the grapefruit until lightly browned. Eat with your hands or use a fork.

Step 3

Place the grapefruit in hot or boiling water. Allow to soak for several minutes. Slice off one portion of the grapefruit. Begin to peel the grapefruit with your fingers. The pith will stick to the peel and not the fruit when peeling. The pith is the white membrane that gives the fruit its sour, tangy flavor, states Taste of Home. Cut apart segments and add to fruit salad for additional vitamin C.

Step 4

Add peeled grapefruit slices to your blender for a breakfast smoothie. Low-fat yogurt, honey and other fruits add additional sweetness. Mix in 1 tbsp. of ground flaxseed for additional omega-3 fatty acids.

Tips and Warnings

  • Look for a blemish-free grapefruit with smooth and firm skin, advises Iowa State University. A slightly green fruit will not affect the taste. Pick up several fruits and choose one heavy in size. The heavier the fruit, the more juice it contains. Avoid soft, pointy or puffy grapefruits -- these are signs of poor quality. The leading producer of grapefruit in the U.S. is Florida. Store grapefruits in the refrigerator for up to eight weeks.
  • Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with some medications, including blood pressure, cholesterol and anxiety-lowering drugs, reports Harvard Medical School. Check each medication label to ensure there are no side effects when consuming grapefruit and your prescribed drugs.

Things You'll Need

  • Grapefruit
  • Knife
  • Honey
  • Sugar
  • Spoon
  • Coconut
  • Brown sugar
  • Almond flakes
  • Fork
  • Bowl
  • Hot water
  • Blender
  • Low-fat yogurt
  • Honey
  • Fruit
  • Flaxseed

References

Article reviewed by I.P. Last updated on: Nov 9, 2010

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