Tropical fruits can be found year-round, but their peak season starts in the spring and runs through summer. Tropical fruits are known for their juiciness and sweetness. They are the most refreshing snack to enjoy on a hot summer day! As we gear up for the warmer months, here are some tropical fruits we highly recommend.
Ataulfo Mangoes
Ataulfo mangoes are just as adorable as they are delicious! They are so sweet that they have been dubbed the “honey mango” for its nectar-like taste. Ataulfo mangoes are small, soft, and bright yellow with a hooked shape resembling a small pear. 
Not only are they a delectable treat but these mangoes are packed with essential nutrients. One cup of Ataulfo mangoes make up 67% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C. They can also help fight infections and increase white blood cell production. You’re in luck because ThirdLeaf NW is delivering these sweet mangoes this week!
Dragon Fruit
Have you ever gone out to get smoothie bowls and seen “pitaya” as a base option? This is just another name for dragon fruit! Dragon fruit’s peak season begins in June. The cactus plant that grows dragon fruit is known as the Honolulu queen, and its flowers only open at night. Dragon fruit is not the most nutrient-dense fruit, but it provides high levels of fiber and antioxidants to help fight disease. So next time you’re out for smoothie bowls, try pitaya!
Pineapple
We couldn’t leave out the quintessential tropical fruit! Though you can typically find pineapple at the grocery store year-round, its peak season runs from March to July. It’s important to purchase fruits and vegetables during their peak season for health benefits and better taste. Pineapple is one of the best tropical fruits (in our humble opinion) because it is low-calorie but packed with lots of nutrients! Pineapples provide 88% of the RDI for vitamin C and over 100% of the RDI for manganese for women! They are also rich in fiber, vitamin B6, and copper. Studies have also found that pineapple can reduce your risk of cancer because of its antioxidants and other compounds. Sounds like a win to us!