1. The edible, flat, paddle-shaped stems of the prickly pear cactus, used in Mexican and Southwestern cuisine.
Usage: Plural form; singular is 'nopal'.; Often prepared grilled, boiled, or in salads.; Also called cactus pads or cactus leaves.

Examples

• The restaurant served grilled nopales with lime and cilantro.
• Nopales are rich in fiber and vitamins, making them a nutritious vegetable.
• She bought fresh nopales at the farmers market to make a traditional Mexican salad.
• The chef removed the spines from the nopales before cooking.
• Nopales have a slightly tangy flavor and tender texture when properly prepared.