Cooking Steps

Remove all needles from cactus pads. This is usually already done for you at the store but make sure they are completely clean. Cut off bottom part of each pad (about 1 inch.)

Over a medium hot grill (you can also use a grill pan or George Foreman grill) place cactus pads and cook for a few minutes per side until they are soft all the way through and you can easily pierce with a knife. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Note: cactus pads are like okra and have a slightly gooey liquid which is normal.

Once cactus are cool, thinly slice lengthwise and place in a bowl. Add grape tomatoes, red onion, jalapeno (if desired), cilantro (if desired), salt and pepper to taste. Add juice from half a lime. Fold to incorporate all the flavors.

Plate and serve.