trio of kiwano dips.
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In my quest to find creative ways to use the unusual fruit, kiwano melon, I added the kiwano pulp to three traditional sides normally served with tacos, quesadillas, chips and more. I created a yogurt dip, a kiwano guacamole and a kiwano, pineapple and tomato salsa There is a very mild flavor that really goes well with all the sides. The fruit is packed with all the good stuff: vitamins, minerals and a healthy dose of protein not usually found in fruit. Go ahead and add it to everything. Don’t forget to try my Kiwano Cocktail (I had to use the last kiwano for something fabulous, right?)

Pulling this appetizer together is really easy. You are simply mixing up the ingredients for each dip in a separate bowl. Place them on a serving tray. Serve with warm tortilla chips and you are good to go.

Haven’t heard of Kiwano? Let me share the most frequently asked questions about the fruit.

Top Frequently Asked Questions About Kiwano Melons

Kiwano melon, also known as horned melon or African horned cucumber, is a distinctive exotic fruit native to Africa. It has a spiky orange exterior and a bright green, jelly-like interior filled with edible seeds. It’s part of the cucumber family (Cucurbitaceae) and scientifically known as Cucumis metuliferus.
Kiwano melon has a unique flavor that combines elements of cucumber, banana, lime, and kiwi. The texture is jelly-like and seed-filled, similar to a passion fruit or cucumber. Some people describe it as a slightly tart, refreshing taste with subtle sweetness.
To eat a kiwano melon:
  • Cut it in half lengthwise
  • Scoop out the green, seed-filled pulp with a spoon
  • Eat it directly or add it to salads, smoothies, or desserts
  • The seeds are edible and can be consumed along with the pulp
  • The spiked skin is not edible
  • Antioxidants that help fight free radicals
  • Dietary fiber
  • Good source of hydration (approximately 90% water)
  • Low in calories (about 90 calories per fruit)
  • Magnesium, iron, and potassium
  • Vitamin C and vitamin A
      • Kiwano melons are nutritionally rich in:
    A ripe kiwano melon will have:
    • A bright orange exterior
    • Firm, well-defined spikes
    • A slight give when gently squeezed (not too soft)
    • The fruit may naturally split when fully ripe
    • The inside will be bright green if ripe
    Kiwano melons have an impressively long shelf life compared to other fruits:
    • Uncut: Can last 3-5 months at room temperature
    • Cut: Should be refrigerated and used within 3-4 days
    • For longest shelf life, store at room temperature until cutting

    Yes, kiwano melons can be grown at home:

    • They require warm temperatures (65-75°F/18-24°C)
    • Need full sun exposure
    • Require a long growing season (120-150 days)
    • Can be started from seeds taken directly from the fruit
    • Grow best in well-draining soil
    • Benefit from trellising as they are climbing vines
    Kiwano melons can be found at:
    • Specialty grocery stores
    • International or Asian markets
    • Some well-stocked supermarkets in the exotic fruit section
    • Farmers markets in regions where they grow
    • Online specialty fruit retailers
    Popular culinary uses include:
    • Tropical fruit salads
    • Smoothies and juices
    • Cocktail garnishes and ingredients
    • Sorbets and ice creams
    • Unique salsas and dressings
    • Decorative garnishes for desserts
    • Jams and preserves
    While generally safe to eat:
    • Some people may have allergic reactions, especially if allergic to cucumbers or melons
    • The spiky exterior can cause minor cuts if handled carelessly
    • The seeds, while edible, might be difficult to digest for some people
    • Unripe kiwano (green exterior) may cause stomach discomfort and should be avoided

    Don’t forget to try my Kiwano Cocktail (I had to use it to make a fabulous cocktail for a BBQ!)

    How to make this trio of kiwano sides and dips

    • Start by making the Kiwano Salsa.  The recipe is simple and you’ll be mixing the colors of the rainbow using fruits and veggies to create this great dip.  I also use it as a topping on chicken and fish or as a side with many Mexican meals. 
    ingredients for salsa in a bowl.
    cup of kiwano salsa.
    • Next, I mix up my Kiwano yogurt dip.  This is simply fat-free Greek yogurt (FAGE is my preference) and the kiwano fruit mixed in a bowl.  Put to the side and proceed with the Kiwano Guacamole.
    cup of yogurt and kiwano seeds.
    • I simply smash the avocado with salt and pepper until almost smooth.  Then I add the kiwano fruit and stir it in.
    • I then put all three dips into small bowls.  Serve on the side of your favorite dippers like chips, cut veggies and fruit.
    cup of kiwano guacamole.

    PRO TIP:

    The last step is to warm up the tortilla chips.  This is the single greatest tip I can give you.  Taking a store bought bag of tortilla chips and putting them on a baking sheet and popping them into a 200 degree F oven for 10 minutes takes them to a whole new level.  Your guests will really appreciate the effort.  And lets face it, that wasn’t a lot of effort.  LOL  Warming up the chips shows you care about the details.

    Put the chips in a basket or on a large platter with the three dips and some wedges of lime and you are ready for a party.  Enjoy.

    trio of kiwano dips.

    If you made the recipe, do leave a comment and rating below.  I’d love to hear from you.

    Did you like how easy and delicious this recipe was? If so, try some of my other favorite dip recipes:

    Crab Guacamole Dip

    Alaskan Smoked Salmon Spread

    Greek Five Layer Dip

    Spicy Feta Dip

    Three Bean Hummus

    Four Cheese Fonduta w/Roasted Tomatoes

    Whipped Feta with Cucumbers

    trio of kiwano dips.

    Tortilla Chips With Kiwano Salsa, Kiwano Guacamole & Kiwano Yogurt Dip

    Enjoy kiwona melon three ways in a fresh salsa, guacamole and a cooling yogurt dip. These are delicious served with tortilla chips or served with tacos or as a side with fish and chicken.
    5 from 2 votes
    Prep Time 30 minutes
    Cook Time 1 hour
    Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
    Course Starter
    Cuisine Mexican
    Servings 8 Served

    Nutritional information is only an estimate. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed.

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    Ingredients
     
     

    • 1 Large bag of tortilla chips

    KIWANO GUACAMOLE

    • 2 Ripe avocados
    • ½ Kiwano pulp
    • Salt & pepper

    KIWANO YOGURT DIP

    Instructions
     

    • Make Salsa and chill.  (Get the Kiwano, Pineapple & Tomato Salsa recipe here.)
    • Make Yogurt dip (mix all ingredients together and chill one hour).
    • Make Guacamole (mix all ingredients together and chill one hour)
    • Serve all three dips with tortilla chips and enjoy!
    Keyword appetizer, dips, healthier choice, kiwona melon, starter
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!