You’ve probably admired star fruit’s beautiful shape in the produce aisle, but have you ever brought one home? These tropical gems are surprisingly versatile and easy to work with. We’ve gathered 18 exotic recipes that will transform this stunning fruit into refreshing drinks, vibrant salads, and delightful desserts. Get ready to discover how star fruit can brighten your table with its unique flavor and gorgeous presentation!
Star Fruit and Mango Smoothie
Whip up this tropical smoothie when you need a quick energy boost. Star fruit adds subtle tang while mango brings sweet creaminess. Perfect for breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients
– 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 medium star fruits, sliced
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– A splash of orange juice
– A couple of ice cubes
– A drizzle of honey
Instructions
1. Wash and dry both mangoes and star fruits thoroughly.
2. Peel mangoes and cut flesh away from the pit into 1-inch cubes.
3. Slice star fruits crosswise into ¼-inch thick pieces, removing any brown edges.
4. Combine mango cubes, star fruit slices, and Greek yogurt in blender.
5. Pour in orange juice until it reaches about ½ cup mark.
6. Add ice cubes and drizzle honey over ingredients.
7. Blend on high speed for 45-60 seconds until completely smooth.
8. Check consistency—add more orange juice if too thick, blend 15 seconds more.
9. Pour immediately into glasses.
Velvety smooth with tropical sweetness balanced by star fruit’s mild tartness. The creamy texture makes it satisfying enough for breakfast, while the vibrant yellow color looks stunning in clear glasses. Try freezing leftover smoothie in popsicle molds for a refreshing treat later.
Grilled Star Fruit with Honey Glaze
Never tried grilling fruit before? Grilled star fruit with honey glaze transforms this tropical beauty into a caramelized dessert. The heat brings out its natural sweetness while adding smoky depth.
Ingredients
– 3 firm star fruit, sliced into ½-inch thick stars
– ¼ cup honey
– A splash of fresh lime juice
– A pinch of flaky sea salt
– A couple of fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
2. Slice star fruit crosswise into ½-inch thick star-shaped pieces, removing any seeds you spot.
3. Brush both sides of each star fruit slice lightly with honey using a pastry brush.
4. Place star fruit slices directly on the clean grill grates.
5. Grill for 3-4 minutes until you see distinct grill marks forming on the bottom.
6. Flip each slice carefully using tongs.
7. Grill for another 3-4 minutes until the edges begin to caramelize and soften.
8. Transfer grilled star fruit to a serving platter.
9. Drizzle remaining honey evenly over the warm fruit.
10. Squeeze fresh lime juice directly over the slices.
11. Sprinkle with a pinch of flaky sea salt.
12. Garnish with fresh mint leaves torn by hand.
Expect tender-crisp texture with caramelized edges that contrast beautifully with the honey glaze. The lime cuts through the sweetness while the salt enhances all flavors. Serve warm over vanilla ice cream or alongside grilled pork for a sweet-savory combo.
Star Fruit and Avocado Salad
You’re craving something fresh, vibrant, and a little unexpected. This star fruit and avocado salad delivers exactly that—crisp, tropical sweetness meets creamy richness in minutes.
Ingredients
– 2 ripe avocados
– 2 medium star fruits
– A couple of handfuls of baby spinach
– A generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
– A big squeeze of fresh lime juice
– A pinch of flaky sea salt
– A crack of black pepper
Instructions
1. Rinse the star fruits under cold water and pat them dry with a clean towel.
2. Slice the star fruits crosswise into ¼-inch thick star-shaped pieces, removing any seeds if you spot them.
3. Halve the avocados, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh out with a spoon.
4. Cut the avocado into ½-inch cubes.
5. Place the baby spinach in a large salad bowl.
6. Add the star fruit slices and avocado cubes to the bowl.
7. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over the salad.
8. Squeeze the lime juice directly over the ingredients to prevent the avocado from browning.
9. Sprinkle the flaky sea salt and crack the black pepper over the top.
10. Toss everything gently with salad tongs until evenly coated, being careful not to mash the avocado.
So creamy avocado contrasts with the crisp, slightly tart star fruit, while the lime brightens every bite. Serve it alongside grilled shrimp or stuff it into a wrap for a quick, satisfying lunch.
Star Fruit Salsa with Lime and Cilantro
Just discovered this vibrant salsa that’s perfect for breaking out of your chip-dip rut. Juicy star fruit brings subtle sweetness while lime and cilantro keep things bright. Grab some tortilla chips because this comes together in minutes.
Ingredients
– 3 medium star fruits, sliced thin
– A big handful of fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice from 2 limes
– 1/2 red onion, diced small
– 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and minced
– A good glug of olive oil (about 2 tablespoons)
– A generous pinch of salt
– A couple of grinds of black pepper
Instructions
1. Wash all produce thoroughly under cool running water.
2. Slice star fruits crosswise into 1/4-inch thick pieces, removing any brown edges.
3. Dice red onion into 1/4-inch pieces for even distribution throughout the salsa.
4. Cut jalapeño in half lengthwise and scrape out seeds with a spoon to control heat level.
5. Mince jalapeño finely to prevent overwhelming bites.
6. Chop cilantro leaves and tender stems, avoiding woody parts for better texture.
7. Combine star fruit, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro in a medium bowl.
8. Squeeze lime juice directly over the mixture to prevent browning.
9. Drizzle olive oil over ingredients.
10. Season with salt and black pepper.
11. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated, being careful not to crush star fruit.
12. Let salsa sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Glistening star fruit pieces provide satisfying crunch against the soft onion and spicy jalapeño. The lime’s acidity cuts through the fruit’s natural sweetness beautifully. Serve alongside grilled fish or scoop generously over crispy tortilla chips for a refreshing twist.
Star Fruit and Coconut Chia Pudding
A perfectly layered chia pudding makes mornings feel special without any fuss. This tropical version combines sweet star fruit with creamy coconut for a refreshing start to your day. It’s meal-prep friendly and ready when you are.
Ingredients
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– A pinch of salt
– 2 ripe star fruits
– A handful of toasted coconut flakes
Instructions
1. Combine chia seeds, coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt in a medium bowl.
2. Whisk vigorously for 1 full minute to prevent clumping.
3. Let mixture rest for 10 minutes, then whisk again for 30 seconds.
4. Cover bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until pudding reaches thick, spoonable consistency.
6. Slice star fruits crosswise into 1/4-inch thick stars just before serving.
7. Spoon chia pudding into serving glasses or bowls.
8. Arrange star fruit slices decoratively on top of pudding.
9. Sprinkle generously with toasted coconut flakes.
Now you’ve got a creamy, tropical pudding with satisfying texture contrast between the silky base and crunchy coconut. The star fruit’s mild sweetness balances beautifully with the rich coconut flavor. Try layering it with granola for extra crunch or topping with mint leaves for a fresh twist.
Star Fruit and Ginger Infused Water
Refresh your hydration routine with this vibrant star fruit and ginger infused water. Really simple to prepare, it delivers a crisp, slightly spicy flavor that beats plain water any day. Ready in minutes, it’s perfect for sipping throughout your busy day.
Ingredients
– 2 medium star fruits
– A 2-inch piece of fresh ginger
– 8 cups of cold water
– A couple of ice cubes
– A splash of fresh lime juice (optional)
Instructions
1. Wash 2 medium star fruits thoroughly under cold running water to remove any surface dirt.
2. Slice the star fruits crosswise into ¼-inch thick star-shaped pieces, removing and discarding any brown seeds you find.
3. Peel the 2-inch piece of fresh ginger using the edge of a spoon to easily remove the skin.
4. Thinly slice the peeled ginger into rounds to maximize surface area for better flavor infusion.
5. Place the star fruit slices and ginger slices into a large 2-quart pitcher.
6. Pour 8 cups of cold water directly over the fruits and ginger in the pitcher.
7. Add a couple of ice cubes to the pitcher to immediately chill the infusion.
8. If using, squeeze a splash of fresh lime juice directly into the pitcher for a citrusy zing.
9. Stir the mixture gently with a long spoon to combine all ingredients evenly.
10. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow flavors to fully develop.
11. Strain the infused water through a fine mesh sieve into serving glasses if you prefer no floating pieces.
12. Serve chilled over additional ice cubes for maximum refreshment.
Perfectly crisp and subtly spicy, this infusion gains complexity as it sits. The star fruit provides gentle tropical notes while the ginger adds a warming kick that lingers pleasantly. Try serving it in clear glass pitchers to showcase the beautiful star-shaped fruit slices floating throughout.
Star Fruit and Shrimp Ceviche
Very few dishes balance tropical brightness and coastal freshness like this ceviche. Vibrant star fruit brings sweet-tart notes that perfectly complement the briny shrimp. This quick-prep dish delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients
– 1 pound of large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 medium star fruits, sliced into thin half-moons
– 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed lime juice (about 4-5 limes)
– 1/4 cup of finely chopped red onion
– 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and minced
– a big handful of chopped fresh cilantro
– a generous pinch of kosher salt
– a couple of ripe avocados, diced
– a splash of extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
1. Bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Add the shrimp and cook for exactly 2 minutes until pink and opaque.
3. Immediately transfer shrimp to an ice water bath using a slotted spoon to stop cooking.
4. Drain the cooled shrimp and pat completely dry with paper towels.
5. Chop the shrimp into 1/2-inch pieces and place in a glass bowl.
6. Pour the fresh lime juice over the shrimp, ensuring all pieces are submerged.
7. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 20 minutes to “cook” the shrimp in the acid.
8. While shrimp marinates, slice the star fruit into 1/4-inch half-moons, discarding the ends.
9. Finely chop the red onion and place in a small bowl of ice water for 5 minutes to reduce sharpness.
10. Drain the onion and add to the shrimp mixture along with star fruit slices.
11. Stir in minced jalapeño, chopped cilantro, and kosher salt until well combined.
12. Gently fold in diced avocado and drizzle with olive oil just before serving.
Crisp star fruit provides satisfying crunch against the tender, citrus-marinated shrimp. The creamy avocado balances the bright acidity while the jalapeño delivers subtle heat. Serve immediately in chilled glasses or over tostadas for maximum texture contrast.
Star Fruit and Pineapple Sorbet
Never underestimate how a tropical sorbet can brighten your day. Nothing beats the refreshing zing of star fruit and pineapple on a warm afternoon. This simple frozen treat comes together with minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor impact.
Ingredients
– 3 medium star fruits, sliced
– 2 cups of fresh pineapple chunks
– ¾ cup of granulated sugar
– A splash of fresh lime juice
– A couple of tablespoons of water
Instructions
1. Wash and dry 3 medium star fruits thoroughly.
2. Slice the star fruits crosswise into ¼-inch thick pieces, removing any seeds you encounter.
3. Peel and core one fresh pineapple, then cut it into 2 cups of 1-inch chunks.
4. Combine the star fruit slices, pineapple chunks, ¾ cup granulated sugar, and a couple tablespoons of water in a blender.
5. Blend on high speed for 45-60 seconds until completely smooth and no fruit chunks remain.
6. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any fibrous pulp.
7. Stir in a splash of fresh lime juice to balance the sweetness.
8. Pour the strained mixture into a shallow freezer-safe container.
9. Cover the container tightly with plastic wrap pressed directly against the sorbet surface.
10. Freeze for 4 hours until firm around the edges but still slightly soft in the center.
11. Transfer the partially frozen sorbet back to the blender.
12. Blend for 30 seconds until smooth and creamy to break up ice crystals.
13. Return the sorbet to the container and cover again with plastic wrap.
14. Freeze for another 4-6 hours until completely firm throughout.
15. Let the sorbet sit at room temperature for 5-7 minutes before scooping.
Firm yet scoopable, this sorbet delivers bright tropical notes with the star fruit’s subtle cucumber undertones. The pineapple provides natural sweetness while the lime adds just enough zing to keep things interesting. Serve in chilled glasses garnished with thin star fruit slices for an elegant presentation that’s perfect for summer entertaining.
Star Fruit and Cucumber Gazpacho
Refreshingly different, this chilled soup combines sweet star fruit with crisp cucumber for a perfect warm-weather meal. Ready in minutes without any cooking required, it’s ideal for busy days when you want something light yet satisfying. The vibrant green color and tropical flavors will make this your go-to summer staple.
Ingredients
– 3 medium star fruits, sliced
– 2 large cucumbers, chopped
– 1 small red onion, diced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– A splash of lime juice
– A couple of ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
1. Wash and slice 3 star fruits, removing any brown edges for the best flavor.
2. Chop 2 cucumbers into rough chunks, keeping the skin on for extra nutrients.
3. Dice 1 small red onion and mince 2 garlic cloves.
4. Combine all chopped ingredients in a blender.
5. Add 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, and a splash of lime juice.
6. Blend on high speed for 2 minutes until completely smooth.
7. Drop in a couple of ice cubes and blend for 30 more seconds to chill the soup instantly.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, though the natural flavors should be balanced.
9. Pour the gazpacho through a fine mesh strainer to remove any pulp for a silkier texture.
10. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
11. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving.
Outstandingly smooth with a subtle crunch from the strained texture, this gazpacho delivers bright citrus notes against the cool cucumber base. Serve it in chilled bowls or hollowed-out star fruit halves for an impressive presentation. The combination creates a refreshing experience that’s both light and surprisingly filling.
Star Fruit and Mint Mojito
Vibrant and refreshing, this star fruit mojito brings tropical flair to your glass. The sweet-tart fruit pairs perfectly with fresh mint and lime. It’s the ultimate thirst-quencher for warm evenings.
Ingredients
– 2 ripe star fruits
– A big handful of fresh mint leaves
– 2 limes
– 1/4 cup of white sugar
– A good splash of white rum
– Plenty of ice cubes
– Club soda to top it off
Instructions
1. Wash 2 star fruits thoroughly under cold running water.
2. Slice one star fruit into thin cross-sections, about 1/4-inch thick each.
3. Cut 2 limes into quarters lengthwise.
4. Place a big handful of mint leaves in a sturdy glass.
5. Add 1/4 cup white sugar to the mint in the glass.
6. Squeeze the juice from all lime quarters directly into the glass, dropping the squeezed lime shells in too.
7. Use a muddler to firmly press and twist the mint, sugar, and limes together for about 30 seconds until the mint is fragrant and slightly bruised.
8. Fill the glass three-quarters full with ice cubes.
9. Pour a good splash of white rum over the ice.
10. Add the sliced star fruit pieces to the glass.
11. Top with club soda until the glass is full.
12. Stir gently with a long spoon for about 15 seconds to combine everything.
13. Garnish with remaining whole star fruit slices on the rim.
14. Serve immediately with a straw.
The crisp, effervescent texture carries bright citrus notes with subtle tropical sweetness from the star fruit. Try freezing extra star fruit slices to use as decorative ice cubes in your next batch. This mojito tastes particularly magical when served in a copper mug for extra chill.
Star Fruit and Chicken Stir-Fry
Zesty and unexpected, this star fruit and chicken stir-fry brings tropical flair to your weeknight dinner. Thinly sliced star fruit caramelizes slightly while keeping its crisp texture. The sweet-tart fruit balances perfectly with savory chicken and soy sauce.
Ingredients
– 1 lb chicken breast, cut into thin strips
– 2 medium star fruits, sliced into ¼-inch pieces
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– ¼ cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– A splash of rice vinegar
– A couple of green onions, chopped
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Instructions
1. Pat chicken strips completely dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3. Add chicken strips in a single layer and cook for 3 minutes without moving to develop a golden sear.
4. Flip chicken and cook for another 2 minutes until cooked through, then transfer to a clean plate.
5. Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the same pan and heat for 30 seconds.
6. Add garlic and ginger, stirring constantly for 45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
7. Add bell pepper strips and cook for 2 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.
8. Add star fruit slices and cook for 90 seconds, tossing gently to avoid breaking the delicate fruit.
9. Whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth.
10. Return chicken to the pan and pour sauce mixture over everything.
11. Cook while stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens and coats all ingredients.
12. Remove from heat and stir in green onions.
Outstanding texture contrast makes this dish memorable—tender chicken against crisp-tender vegetables and the unique crunch of star fruit. The sweet-tart fruit cuts through the savory soy sauce beautifully. Serve over jasmine rice or stuff into warm tortillas for a fusion twist.
Star Fruit and Yogurt Parfait
Perfect for busy mornings, this star fruit and yogurt parfait comes together in minutes. Packed with tropical flavor and creamy texture, it’s a breakfast that feels special without any fuss. Prepare it the night before for an even faster morning routine.
Ingredients
– 2 cups of plain Greek yogurt
– 2 ripe star fruits
– 1/4 cup of honey
– 1/2 cup of granola
– A handful of fresh mint leaves
– A squeeze of fresh lime juice
Instructions
1. Wash both star fruits thoroughly under cool running water.
2. Slice the star fruits crosswise into 1/4-inch thick star-shaped pieces, removing any brown seeds you spot.
3. Drizzle the honey over the Greek yogurt and stir until fully incorporated.
4. Place 1/4 cup of granola at the bottom of each serving glass.
5. Spoon a layer of honey-yogurt mixture over the granola, about 1/2 cup per glass.
6. Arrange 4-5 star fruit slices against the sides of the glass for visual appeal.
7. Add another 1/4 cup of granola layer over the yogurt.
8. Top with remaining yogurt mixture, filling each glass nearly to the top.
9. Garnish with remaining star fruit slices and fresh mint leaves.
10. Squeeze a few drops of fresh lime juice over each parfait just before serving.
Makes a stunning breakfast with its creamy yogurt layers contrasting with crunchy granola. The star fruit adds subtle tropical sweetness while the lime brightens everything up. Try serving in clear mason jars to show off the beautiful star-shaped fruit layers.
Star Fruit and Berry Tart
Kickstart your dessert game with this vibrant star fruit and berry tart. Perfect for impressing guests without the fuss. Let’s get straight to it.
Ingredients
– 1½ cups all-purpose flour
– A stick of cold butter, cubed
– A couple tablespoons of ice water
– A cup of mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
– 2 ripe star fruits, sliced thin
– A splash of lemon juice
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg for that glossy finish
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Combine flour and cold butter cubes in a bowl.
3. Use your fingers to rub butter into flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add ice water one tablespoon at a time, mixing until dough just comes together.
5. Tip: Don’t overwork the dough—this keeps the crust flaky.
6. Roll dough out on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch tart pan.
7. Press dough into the pan, trimming any excess.
8. Prick the base all over with a fork to prevent puffing.
9. Blind bake the crust for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
10. While crust bakes, toss berries and star fruit with lemon juice and sugar in a bowl.
11. Tip: Slice star fruit crosswise for those signature star shapes.
12. Remove crust from oven and arrange fruit mixture evenly inside.
13. Beat the egg and brush it over the fruit edges for browning.
14. Bake for 25–30 minutes until fruit is bubbly and crust is deep golden.
15. Tip: Let it cool completely before slicing to set the juices.
Buttery crust shatters against the tangy-sweet fruit medley. Serve it warm with a dollop of vanilla ice cream for contrast, or chill it for a firmer slice that holds its shape beautifully.
Star Fruit and Lemongrass Tea
Kickstart your afternoon with this refreshing tropical tea that combines sweet star fruit with aromatic lemongrass. Keep it simple with just a few ingredients that pack major flavor. Perfect for when you need a quick pick-me-up without the caffeine crash.
Ingredients
– 2 medium star fruits, sliced into stars
– 3 fresh lemongrass stalks, smashed
– 4 cups of water
– A generous 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
– A big handful of ice cubes
– A splash of fresh lime juice
Instructions
1. Cut 2 medium star fruits crosswise into 1/4-inch thick star-shaped slices.
2. Remove tough outer layers from 3 lemongrass stalks and smash them with a rolling pin to release oils.
3. Combine star fruit slices, smashed lemongrass, and 4 cups of water in a medium saucepan.
4. Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer for 15 minutes to extract flavors fully.
5. Stir in 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until completely dissolved, about 1 minute.
6. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a heatproof pitcher, pressing on solids to extract all liquid.
7. Cool the tea to room temperature for about 30 minutes before refrigerating.
8. Chill the tea in refrigerator for at least 2 hours until completely cold.
9. Fill glasses with a big handful of ice cubes each.
10. Pour chilled tea over ice and add a splash of fresh lime juice to each serving.
Now you’ve got a beautifully clear golden tea with subtle sweet-tart notes. The star fruit contributes a mild grape-like flavor while lemongrass adds citrusy brightness. Serve it over plenty of ice with extra star fruit slices as edible garnishes for maximum visual appeal.
Star Fruit and Coconut Rice Pudding
Finally found a tropical dessert that doesn’t require fancy techniques. Fresh star fruit slices transform basic rice pudding into something special, while coconut milk adds creamy richness without being overly sweet.
Ingredients
– 1 cup of white rice
– 1 can (13.5 oz) of coconut milk
– 2 cups of water
– ½ cup of sugar
– 2 fresh star fruits
– A pinch of salt
– A splash of vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Rinse 1 cup of white rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. Combine the rinsed rice, 1 can of coconut milk, 2 cups of water, and a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then immediately reduce to a low simmer.
4. Cook uncovered for 25 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to prevent sticking to the bottom.
5. Stir in ½ cup of sugar and a splash of vanilla extract until fully dissolved.
6. Continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes until the rice is tender and the pudding has thickened to a creamy consistency.
7. While the pudding cooks, slice 2 star fruits crosswise into ¼-inch thick star-shaped pieces.
8. Remove the pudding from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.
9. Gently fold in half of the star fruit slices, reserving the rest for garnish.
10. Transfer the pudding to serving bowls and arrange the remaining star fruit slices on top.
Velvety coconut rice pairs beautifully with the crisp, slightly tart star fruit. The tropical flavors intensify when chilled overnight, making it perfect for next-day enjoyment. Try serving it in hollowed-out coconut halves for an extra festive presentation.
Star Fruit and Jalapeño Salsa Verde
Bold flavors collide in this unexpected salsa verde that will become your new go-to condiment. Star fruit brings tropical sweetness while jalapeños deliver the perfect spicy kick. This vibrant salsa comes together in just minutes but delivers maximum impact.
Ingredients
– 4 medium star fruits, sliced thin
– 2 jalapeños, seeds removed
– A big handful of fresh cilantro
– 3 cloves of garlic
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 2 tablespoons of lime juice
– A generous pinch of salt
– A couple of ice cubes
Instructions
1. Wash and dry all produce thoroughly.
2. Slice star fruits crosswise into 1/4-inch thick pieces, removing any brown edges.
3. Cut jalapeños in half lengthwise and scrape out all seeds and white membranes with a spoon.
4. Roughly chop cilantro, including tender stems.
5. Peel garlic cloves and give them a quick smash with your knife blade.
6. Combine star fruit slices, jalapeños, cilantro, and garlic in a food processor.
7. Pulse 5-6 times until ingredients are coarsely chopped but not pureed.
8. Add olive oil, lime juice, and salt to the food processor.
9. Process for 15 seconds until the mixture reaches a chunky salsa consistency.
10. Drop 2 ice cubes into the food processor and pulse briefly to chill the salsa without watering it down.
11. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, remembering flavors will intensify as it sits.
12. Transfer salsa to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Dazzling with its bright green color and chunky texture, this salsa offers a perfect balance of sweet star fruit and spicy jalapeño heat. The crisp star fruit pieces provide refreshing crunch against the smooth cilantro base. Try it spooned over grilled fish or as a vibrant topping for tacos to really make your meal pop.
Star Fruit and Pomegranate Mocktail
Hoping for a refreshing drink that looks as good as it tastes? This star fruit and pomegranate mocktail delivers both visual appeal and bright flavor. It’s perfect for entertaining or just treating yourself.
Ingredients
– 2 ripe star fruits
– 1 cup of pomegranate juice
– A splash of fresh lime juice
– A couple of fresh mint sprigs
– Ice cubes
– 1 tablespoon of simple syrup
Instructions
1. Wash 2 ripe star fruits thoroughly under cold running water.
2. Slice one star fruit into thin cross-sectional pieces for garnish.
3. Chop the remaining star fruit into small chunks, discarding the seeds as you go.
4. Muddle the chopped star fruit in a cocktail shaker until juicy and broken down.
5. Add 1 cup of pomegranate juice to the shaker.
6. Squeeze in a splash of fresh lime juice (about 1 tablespoon).
7. Pour in 1 tablespoon of simple syrup.
8. Fill the shaker halfway with ice cubes.
9. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until well chilled.
10. Strain the mixture into glasses filled with fresh ice.
11. Garnish each glass with a star fruit slice and a fresh mint sprig.
A vibrant, slightly tart drink with a subtle sweetness that balances perfectly. The star fruit slices float beautifully, making it ideal for serving in clear glasses to show off its jewel-toned color. For an extra festive touch, rim the glasses with sugar or add a few pomegranate arils to each serving.
Star Fruit and Cashew Stir-Fry
Dazzlingly simple yet impressively flavorful, this stir-fry brings tropical vibes to your weeknight dinner rotation. Star fruit’s subtle sweetness pairs perfectly with crunchy cashews in a savory sauce that comes together in minutes. You’ll love how the colors pop against the dark skillet.
Ingredients
– 2 firm star fruits, sliced into stars
– A generous handful of raw cashews
– 1 boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– A thumb of ginger, grated
– A good glug of vegetable oil
– A couple splashes of soy sauce
– A squeeze of fresh lime juice
– A pinch of red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until a drop of water sizzles immediately.
2. Add a good glug of vegetable oil and swirl to coat the bottom evenly.
3. Add chicken pieces in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 2 minutes to develop golden color.
4. Flip chicken and cook another 2 minutes until no pink remains, then remove to a plate.
5. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed for proper browning.
6. Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the hot pan, stirring constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant.
7. Toss in raw cashews and toast for 1 minute, shaking the pan frequently until lightly golden.
8. Add star fruit slices and cook for 1 minute just to warm through while maintaining crispness.
9. Tip: Add star fruit last to preserve its delicate texture and prevent mushiness.
10. Return chicken to the pan along with any accumulated juices.
11. Pour in a couple splashes of soy sauce and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
12. Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes and toss everything together for 30 seconds to coat evenly.
13. Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving—the soy provides plenty of saltiness.
14. Remove from heat immediately to prevent overcooking the star fruit.
This dish delivers satisfying crunch from the cashews against the star fruit’s tender-crisp bite. The savory sauce clings beautifully to each component without overwhelming the delicate flavors. Try serving over jasmine rice or stuffing into lettuce cups for a fresh twist.
Summary
My, what a delightful journey through star fruit possibilities! From vibrant salads to tropical desserts, these 18 recipes showcase this exotic fruit’s incredible versatility. I hope you feel inspired to bring some tropical sunshine into your kitchen. Try a recipe that catches your eye, then share your favorite in the comments below—and don’t forget to pin this article on Pinterest for your next culinary adventure!
Laura Hauser is a food writer and editor passionate about authentic, approachable home cooking.
